Proctological examination – crucial for early detection of diseases of the final part of the colon

Proctological examination is a medical procedure that allows for early diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the rectum and anal region, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel diseases and colon cancer.

According to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), almost 2 million new cases of colon cancer were registered in 2020.

Colon cancer in its early stages often has no symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose in a timely manner. According to the European Union, Croatia ranks 9th in terms of the incidence of colorectal cancer but 2nd in terms of mortality .

Given that many patients ignore the symptoms due to discomfort or shame, the disease is often only detected in the later stages, when treatment options are limited.

For this reason, preventive proctological examinations play a key role in the early detection of the disease, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

When to perform a proctological examination?

A proctological examination is recommended in the following cases:

• People over 45 years of age, every two years, for early detection of colorectal cancer
• People who have a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
• When symptoms appear such as:
  • bleeding from the anus
  • pain, itching or discomfort during bowel movements
  • the appearance of mucus or blood in the stool
  • feeling of incomplete discharge
• People with chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Patients with previous diagnoses of hemorrhoids, fistulas or anal fissures

Many diseases of the final part of the intestine in the initial stages do not cause symptoms or are ignored by patients. Regular check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve quality of life.

What does a proctological examination look like?

The examination consists of:

1. Anamnesis – talking to the doctor about symptoms, family history and existing medical documentation
2. Physical examination – includes visual inspection, digitorectal examination and, if necessary, additional diagnostic tests

Course of the review

• The examination is carried out in a lateral, knee-elbow or gynecological position, depending on the doctor’s assessment and the patient’s preference
• Visual inspection of the anal region allows the doctor to notice hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, tumor formations or eczema
• Digitorectal examination is used to assess the condition of the sphincter and detect any growths in the rectum
• In men, the prostate is also examined

The examination is short-term and painless, unless there are inflammatory changes or anal fissures. If the patient feels discomfort, it is necessary to immediately communicate this to the doctor.

Preparation for a proctological examination

Proctological examination does not require special preparation, except for the usual hygiene procedures.

We advise patients to:

• To arrive in comfortable clothes
• Emptying bowels naturally before the examination, if possible
• Relaxation and information about the procedure to reduce discomfort

Our professional staff is available for any additional questions before the examination.

The most common diseases detected by proctological examination

Colon cancer

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the colon or rectum.

In the early stages, symptoms may be absent or non-specific, such as:

• Intermittent abdominal pain
• Flatulence
• Slight changes in bowel function

Over time , bleeding in the stool, a change in the consistency of the stool, pain, and unexplained weight loss may occur.

A preventive examination can detect the disease at an early stage, when the treatment options are significantly better.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are varicose veins in the anal canal that can cause itching, burning, pain, and bleeding.

Risk factors include:

• Prolonged constipation or diarrhea
• Improper diet low in fiber
• Lack of physical activity
• Prolonged sitting

Untreated hemorrhoids can lead to worsening of symptoms and complications, including prolapse of hemorrhoids or the occurrence of thrombosis.

Anal fissure

An anal fissure is a crack in the lining of the anal canal, which can occur due to hard stools or prolonged diarrhea.

Symptoms include:

• Sharp pain during bowel movements
• Bleeding after stool
• Itching and discomfort

In most cases, an anal fissure can be cured with conservative methods, but in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.

Colon diseases in the younger population

Although colon cancer and hemorrhoids are more common in the older population, certain problems can also occur in younger people.

One of the most common phenomena is anal fissure, which occurs as a result of frequent diarrhea, hard stools or the use of laxatives.

Symptoms of anal fissures include:

• Pain during or immediately after a bowel movement
• Bleeding on the surface of the chair or on toilet paper
• Itching and discomfort

With a proctological examination, it is possible to diagnose an anal fissure, and with timely treatment, it is possible to prevent more serious complications.

Make an appointment for an examination

At the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic , we have gathered a team of experienced experts in the field of proctology and gastroenterology, who use modern diagnostic methods for early detection and treatment of diseases of the final part of the colon.

Proctological examination is short-term and painless, but it can save lives by timely detection of serious diseases, and if you have doubts, make an appointment for an examination:

📞 Contact: +3851 2444 646
📍 Address: Trg Johna Fitzgeralda Kennedya 6b, Zagreb
🌐 Online appointment via web form

Your experts

The main goal of LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with top-notch healthcare services.