By madwolf687@gmail.com 
If you’ve just been referred to a colon specialist in Singapore, one of the most frequently asked questions that may naturally cross your mind is; why have I been referred to a colorectal specialist?
It is simple; you might have been referred to a colorectal specialist if your doctor suspects that the condition you’re dealing with is likely going to need surgery to arrest it. Examples of colorectal procedures that may require surgery include; Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), cancer, and polyposis. In today’s article, we will be answering some of the most commonly asked questions about colon specialists in Singapore. But first;
Is a Colorectal Doctor the Same as a Gastroenterologist?
To begin, a colorectal doctor is often referred to as a colorectal surgeon. They specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the colon, rectum, and anus.
These specialists handle a wide range of issues, from hemorrhoids to colorectal cancer. A gastroenterologist, on the other hand, is a specialist of the digestive system. They deal with everything from the esophagus to the rectum with their key focus being the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, typically through non-surgical methods.
That said, a colorectal doctor isn’t the same as a gastroenterologist. The primary difference lies in their training and scope of practice.
Colorectal doctors undergo specialized surgical training which enables them to perform complex procedures. Gastroenterologists focus on medical management, endoscopic procedures, and overall digestive health.
Common conditions treated by colorectal doctors include anal fissures, colorectal cancer, and severe hemorrhoids. Gastroenterologists on the other hand handle issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and mild to moderate hemorrhoids.
Here are the answers to six frequently asked questions about colon specialists;
1. What are the signs and symptoms of colon problems?
Colon problems can cause a wide range of signs and symptoms. The most common indicators of colon problems include changes in bowel habits, like diarrhea or constipation which may last longer than a few days.
You may also experience abdominal pain or cramping, which can be persistent or severe. Blood in your stool, either bright red or very dark, is another critical indicator to visit your colon specialist in Singapore.
Also, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a feeling that your bowel does not empty completely can also be indicative of colon issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, please consult a colon specialist in Singapore for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
2. Is colon cancer curable?
Colon cancer just as the name suggests is a type of cancer that attacks the colon or rectum. It is a life-threatening disease that can cause not just severe harm but also death in extreme cases thus the frequently Asked Questions question; is colon cancer curable?
The answer is yes, colon cancer is highly curable, especially if detected early. The treatment and prognosis depend on the cancer stage at diagnosis. Early-stage colon cancer that is confined to the colon’s inner layers can often be treated successfully with surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
For more advanced stages, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy might be required. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are vital for early detection.
3. Is colonoscopy a surgery?
A colonoscopy is one of the procedures you can get at the clinic of your colon specialist in Singapore. The colonoscopy procedure also allows colon specialists to biopsy or remove suspicious areas like polyps thus the question; is colonoscopy a surgery?
The answer is no. A colonoscopy is not considered surgery but a diagnostic procedure. During a colonoscopy, your colon specialist in Singapore will use a long, flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.
The procedure helps detect abnormalities like polyps, inflamed tissue, ulcers, and early signs of colon cancer. Colonoscopies are typically performed on an outpatient basis which means that you can go home the same day. While the procedure itself is not surgical, it is minimally invasive and might involve the removal of polyps or taking biopsies if needed.
4. How serious is colorectal surgery?
Colorectal surgery is reserved for treating conditions that affect the lower digestive tract including the colon, rectum, anus, pelvic floor, and small intestine. If you’re wondering how serious the procedure is, here is a good answer;
Colorectal surgery is a major procedure that can be serious, depending on the underlying condition being treated. It involves removing part of the entire colon or rectum. This type of surgery is typically performed to treat colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or other severe colon conditions.
The seriousness of the surgery depends on your overall health, the extent of the disease, and the type of surgery required. Recovery times vary, and complications can include infection, bleeding, or bowel obstruction. Nonetheless, colorectal surgery is often necessary to treat life-threatening conditions and can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life.
5. Who removes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are typically treated by a colorectal surgeon, also known as a proctologist. These specialists are trained in diagnosing and treating disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus.
While many cases of hemorrhoids can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures, some severe cases might require surgical intervention. A colorectal surgeon can perform procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or hemorrhoidectomy to remove or reduce hemorrhoids.
6. What is a bowel specialist called?
A bowel specialist is commonly known as a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
They are trained to perform procedures like colonoscopies and endoscopies to diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal conditions. For more specialized issues involving the colon, rectum, and anus, you might see a colorectal surgeon.
They are also known as proctologists. These specialists handle surgical and non-surgical treatments for more complex conditions affecting the lower digestive tract.
In Closing
A healthy colon is important because it helps your body remove waste and absorb nutrients. It also helps your body fight disease and maintain a healthy weight.
When your colon isn’t working properly, you might experience problems like constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Some of these symptoms may be indicative of serious conditions so don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a colon specialist.
Don’t ignore any signs. Schedule a consultation with our expert colon specialists today for a thorough assessment and treatment planning. See details below;
Gastrohealth Clinic @ Gleneagles – Dr Bhavesh Doshi | Gastroscopy | Colonoscopy | Health Screening | EUS and ERCP Singapore
6A Napier Rd, #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block,
Singapore 258500
+65 6355 5773