Scared about proctoscopy? Let's talk about it!

Did you feel a little scared or uncomfortable when your doctor told you to have a proctoscopy? It's very common for many people to feel that way. It's not surprising to feel embarrassed or scared, especially when you're being asked to examine such a sensitive area of ​​your body. But it's actually not as scary or embarrassing as you might think. In this article, we'll talk about exactly what a proctoscopy is, why it's done, and how.

What exactly is proctoscopy?

Simply put, a proctoscopy is a procedure that examines the inside of your rectum and anus. The rectum is the last part of your large intestine (digestive tract). This is where stool is temporarily stored before it leaves the body. This examination is performed by a doctor who specializes in the digestive system. This can be a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. He or she uses a special instrument called a proctoscope. This is a small, straight, hollow tube made of plastic or metal. It has a small light and a camera at one end. This is slowly inserted through your rectum and the inside walls are examined for sores , polyps, bleeding, and hemorrhoids. Sometimes, if something unusual is seen, another small instrument may be inserted through the opening in the tube and a small piece of tissue may be taken for examination (biopsy) . Proctoscopy is a type of procedure called an endoscopy. Some people also call it a rigid sigmoidoscopy.

Why do you need to have this proctoscopy test?

This test helps your doctor diagnose various conditions that may be affecting your rectum. Let's look at the main reasons why this is done.

How do you prepare before the test?

For this test to be successful, you need to do a little preparation on your part.

Tell your doctor about the medications you are taking.

Before the test , be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. This includes:

• Prescription drugs
• Over-the- counter medications
• Vitamins and herbal supplements

If you are taking blood thinners, you may be asked to stop taking them a few days before the test. Follow your doctor's instructions exactly as they are given.

The most important thing is to clean the rectum!

The most important preparation for a proctoscopy is to thoroughly clean the rectum. If there is stool inside, the doctor will not be able to see the inner walls clearly. Therefore, this step is very important. There are several ways to do this. Your doctor will recommend the method that is most suitable for you. Usually, they will use an ``enema``. Or they will tell you to take a ``laxative`` that helps the stool pass. Because proctoscopy only looks at the lower part of the rectum, it does not require as much preparation as a colonoscopy, which looks at the entire large intestine.

What happens during the test?

This test can be done in a hospital or clinic. You will be asked to remove your clothes below the waist and put on a hospital gown. Then, you will be asked to lie on an examination table with your knees bent and turned to your left side. 1. Initial examination: First, the doctor will examine the rectum with a gloved, lubricated finger. This is to check for any blockages or painful areas. 2. Insertion of the instrument: Then, the lubricated `proctoscope` is slowly and carefully inserted. At this time, you may feel like you need to defecate. This is very normal , do not worry about it. 3. Insufflation of air: Since the walls of the rectum are tightly closed, the doctor will inflate them with a small amount of air to see clearly. This may cause a slight feeling of fullness and discomfort in the abdomen. However, this test is usually not painful. 4. Painkillers: Most of the time, anesthesia is not required for this. But if you feel pain or are very scared, tell your doctor. When the test is finished, the doctor will slowly remove the device. The entire test only takes between 5 and 15 minutes .

What happens after the test?

Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the test. You may feel a little full or pass air because the air has been inflated. This discomfort will lessen with walking. If a piece of tissue was taken for a biopsy, you may have a little blood when you first have a bowel movement. This is also normal.

What are the risks of this test and how is it different from other tests?

Proctoscopy is a very low-risk procedure. Very rarely, the insertion of the instrument can cause minor abrasions, bleeding, or infection.

The difference between proctoscopy and other tests

You may have heard of other tests like `Anoscopy` and `Colonoscopy`. There are slight differences between these.

If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.

If you experience any of the following symptoms after the test, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) .

• A fever of 38 Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) or higher.
• Heavy bleeding with stool or bleeding for more than three days.
• Severe stomach pain or bloating.