Are you afraid of anoscopy? Let's talk about it simply (Anoscopy)

Do you also have blood when you poop? Or do you often feel itching, pain, or something like a lump in the anus? If you have symptoms like these, your doctor may suggest that you undergo an examination called an 'anoscopy'. Some people feel a little scared, embarrassed, and uncomfortable when they hear this name. But it is actually a very simple, non-painful examination that can be completed in a few minutes. So let's be clear about this.

What exactly is an anoscopy?

Simply put, an anoscopy is an examination of the inside of your anus. The anus is the last part of your large intestine. A special instrument called an anoscope is used for this examination. This is a small tube-like instrument, usually about 3-5 inches long. By inserting this, the doctor can clearly see if there are any wounds, infections, or other diseases in the lining of the anus.

What is High-Resolution Anoscopy?

This is another advanced version of the Anoscopy test. In addition to the Anoscope, a magnifying device called a Colposcope is used. This allows us to look for very subtle changes that are not seen with a normal test, especially abnormal cells that could turn into cancer. If there is any suspicious area, a very small piece of tissue is taken from there and sent to the laboratory. We call it a biopsy .

Other similar tests and their differences

There are several other types of tests that sound similar to anoscopy. Many people confuse these. Let's see what the difference is.

Why do you need to have an anoscopy?

Your doctor orders this test to find the exact cause of a certain symptom. This means that this is a diagnostic procedure.

The main symptoms that this test looks for are:

• Anal bleeding , with or without stool
• Abnormal anal discharge
• Anal pain
• Frequent itching (Anal itching)
• Anal swelling in or around the anus
• Anal lesions / protrusions
• Difficulty defecating or holding stool

Diseases that can be detected by this test:

• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Anal yeast infection
• Sexually transmitted diseases (Anal STIs)
• Anal abscess / fistula
• Anal trauma
• Rectal prolapse
• Cancerous or pre-cancerous conditions (Anal dysplasia / Anal cancer)

How to prepare for the test?

This is the best thing. An anoscopy usually doesn't require any special preparation. However, your doctor may give you some advice, such as:

• Do not put any medicine, cream, or oil in the rectum before the test.
• It is easier to empty your stomach by defecating and urinating before coming for the test.
• Depending on your condition, sometimes your doctor will recommend an `enema` (a liquid that cleanses the colon). He will clearly tell you whether you need to do it or not.

How the test is done and what it feels like

This test can usually be done in the doctor's office or in an outpatient clinic.

1. Preparation: First, you will be asked to remove your underwear and be given a cloth or gown to cover your body for privacy. Then, you will be asked to lie on the examination table in a comfortable position. (For example, kneeling on the table and leaning forward, or turning to the side and bending your knees).

2. Initial examination: The doctor will perform a digital rectal exam using a gloved finger. This is done to check for any unusual lumps or masses inside the rectum before inserting the instrument.

3. Inserting the instrument: Now, the Anoscope is lubricated with a good amount of lubricant and inserted very gently into the anus. Most people do not feel much pain at this time. However, you may feel a slight pressure, as if your stomach is full of air or you need to defecate. This is normal. If you experience a lot of pain, tell your doctor right away. Sometimes a topical numbing medication can be used.

4. Examination: The instrument is inserted and slowly withdrawn, and the inner walls are carefully observed. If anything suspicious is seen (such as pus or mucus), a swab sample is taken. If necessary, a biopsy can also be taken, as mentioned earlier.

The entire test only takes a few minutes . If a biopsy is taken, it will take a little longer.

What happens after the test?

As soon as the test is finished, the doctor will tell you what he sees. If samples were sent, it will take a few days for the reports to arrive.

Sometimes, depending on the condition, treatment can be done right away. For example, if hemorrhoids are bleeding, there are ways to stop it.

After the test, you can go home normally. If you are given anesthesia (which is very rare), you will have to wait a while and travel in a car with someone else. You may feel some discomfort or a very small amount of blood for a day or two after the test. This is normal. You may find relief by sitting in a bowl of warm water (sitz bath).

When do you want to see the doctor again?

Call your doctor immediately if the following happens:

• If you experience unbearable pain .
• If there is heavy bleeding after the test or if the bleeding does not stop for more than two days.
• If symptoms such as fever, nausea, and vomiting occur.

In conclusion, an anoscopy is not as scary as it may seem at first glance. It is a very important step in determining the exact cause of your symptoms and providing you with the treatment you need.

Anoscopy, rectal examination, hemorrhoids, blood in stool, medical tests, Hemorrhoids, Biopsy