There is no doubt that thinking about bowel health can feel a little awkward. But you should listen to your body and consult with a doctor to treat the problems ASAP. Around 4.8% of Australians are projected to receive a diagnosis of colorectal cancer by the age of 85, according to 2024 estimates. If you’re experiencing persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or ongoing abdominal discomfort, it might be time to connect with a colorectal surgeon.
A colorectal surgeon is a specialist who treats conditions related to the lower gastrointestinal tract, including the large intestine, rectum, colon, and anus. There are several colorectal conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases, pelvic organ prolapse, cancers, and polyps.
As you may know, the rectum and colon are the essential parts of the digestive system that absorb all the nutrients, digest the food, and eliminate the waste from the body.
So, when should you consider scheduling an appointment for colorectal surgery in Melbourne right here?
Let’s explore some key indicators.
What Does a Colorectal Surgeon Do?
If the patient is experiencing mild gastrointestinal symptoms, the doctor may advise them to change the bit a tad. They also recommend patients eat a balanced diet and fibre supplements, which have several qualities, including
- Nonfermenting
- Water-holding capacity
- No added sugar
When the case becomes more severe and the medications can’t work anymore, a colorectal surgeon in Melbourne may advise you to eliminate the trouble spots and do cancer screenings.
What is the Function of the Colon and Rectum?
The colon and rectum have several functions regarding digestion. These organs mainly do these following things:
- Bacterial fermentation
- Digestion and nutrient absorption
- Bowel movement
- Immune function
- Waste elimination
- Water and electrolyte balance
Since the colon is associated with several important activities, it’s important to take care of these organs. Therefore, you should maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, engage in regular physical activities, and seek medical assistance if any issues arise.
Also, regular screening is mandatory to identify the risk for colorectal cancer so that early detection and timely treatment can save patients’ lives. But keep in mind there is a slight difference between a colorectal surgeon and a proctologist.
A proctologist diagnoses and treats issues related to the rectum and anus, and a colorectal surgeon treats issues regarding the colon. The best colorectal surgeon in Melbourne diagnoses the following problems:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Haemorrhoids
- Change in Bowel Habits
- Anal Fissures
- Rectal Bleeding
- Abdominal Pain or Cramping
- Colorectal Cancer Screening
- Screening for Polyps
- Prolapsed Rectum
- Anal Abscesses and Infections
- Bowel Incontinence
- Diverticular Disease
The Importance of Timely Intervention
The importance of seeking timely consultation with a colorectal surgeon in Melbourne cannot be overstated. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for many colorectal conditions, especially colorectal cancer. Regular screening, as you mentioned, plays a crucial role in early detection.
If polyps are found during a colonoscopy, a colorectal surgeon can often remove them, preventing their potential progression to cancer. In cases where cancer is diagnosed, prompt colorectal surgery in Melbourne by an experienced surgeon offers the best chance of successful treatment and long-term survival.
Furthermore, for chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), when medications and lifestyle changes are no longer effective, surgical intervention by a skilled colorectal surgeon in Melbourne can alleviate debilitating symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent serious complications.
Get in Touch with Us!
Understanding when to see a colorectal surgeon in Melbourne is a vital step in maintaining good bowel health. By being aware of persistent symptoms and seeking expert advice promptly, Australians in Melbourne can benefit from the specialised care and advanced surgical techniques available, leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.