Anorectal disorders range from more mild conditions, such as hemorrhoids, to those that are serious, such as cancer. Board-certified gastroenterologist Asif M. Qadri, MD, of Athens Digestive Healthcare Associates in Watkinsville, Georgia, addresses the whole range of anorectal disorders that deal with the area that is the juncture between the anal canal and rectum. If you’re suffering from any issue in this area, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Anorectal conditions affect the rectum and anal area. Suspect an anorectal issue if you have any of the following in your anal area:
In most cases, anorectal issues are benign but could indicate something serious such as cancer and therefore deserve the attention of an expert such as Dr. Qadri. Even benign anorectal issues can seriously affect your comfort and quality of life.
Dr. Qadri addresses a wide variety of anorectal disorders. These include:
Hemorrhoids affect up to 10 million people per year. They are bulges in the veins of the anus and may be external or internal, causing bleeding and pain.
An anal fissure describes a tear in the delicate lining of the anus. They may occur chronically due to scarring and poor blood flow.
An anal abscess is a pus-filled area near the anus or rectum. They usually occur as a result of an infection in the internal glands of the anus that’s been clogged by bacteria or fecal matter.
Anal fistula results following an abscess. The fistula is a pathway between a clogged, infected gland and an abscess. Fistulas cause pain, irritation of the skin, and possibly, anal bleeding.
Fecal incontinence can be incredibly embarrassing and distressing. It can lead to minor accidents with small amounts of liquid stool or full involuntary loss of a bowel movement.
This gastrointestinal disorder is characterized by short bouts of anorectal pain localized to the anus or lower rectum.
Pruritus ani affects mostly men and is characterized by burning or itching in the anal or perianal area.
Dr. Qadri uses several tools to evaluate an anorectal disorder. Of course, he’ll perform a comprehensive physical exam and a review of your medical history.
In addition to a digital rectal exam and colonoscopy, he may order an anoscopy, which involves inserting a small tube affixed with a light into the lower rectum and anal canal to get a better view of the area. This procedure may or may not include a biopsy of tissue, too.
He also offers flexible sigmoidoscopy — a diagnostic procedure in which he uses a small, tubular instrument with a video camera to view the last few feet of the large intestine. Dr. Qadri may also recommend an MRI or ultrasound to get a better image of the area.
If you’re suffering from symptoms that affect your anal or rectal area, contact Athens Digestive Healthcare Associates for an appointment. Call the office or book a consultation online today.
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