When abnormalities are discovered, patients may be referred to a colorectal specialist.
“A common sign that there is a problem is blood in a bowel movement,” says Liam Smith, MD, a colorectal surgeon on the Medical Staff of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “Even a small amount of blood should be brought to your doctor’s attention and immediately addressed. While it may be a sign of hemorrhoids, it can also be a sign of cancer, diverticulosis, or an inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.”
In cases where these conditions are discovered and cannot be otherwise managed, surgery may be the answer.
Conditions treated can include:
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A Minimally Invasive Procedure
“People tend to think of this type of surgery as being something that involves a colostomy bag, but that is not really common, and usually only applies to very complex cases or severe emergencies,” says Dr. Smith, who is board certified in colon and rectal surgery and general surgery. “In fact, in most cases procedures are minimally invasive and robot assisted. The average person spends just a few days in the hospital and is up, able to eat, and walking right away.”
Following the procedure, there will be some soreness and diminished appetite and energy, but recovery usually does not take much time. Lifestyle restrictions include no strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for about a month.
“If you are having problems, talk to your doctor,” says Dr. Smith. “Remember that plenty of people experience colorectal issues, and your doctor is there to help diagnose and treat your condition so you can get back to living life.”
Watch for these signs:
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To find a physician affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Health, call 1.888.742.7496, or visit princetonhcs.org/directory