What kind of doctor do I see? - Bowel Disorders Message Board

cb50 · 03-17-2005, 06:41 PM

What kind of doctor would I see just for a rectal exam? I read that alot of you go to a Gastro doctor....do they do that kind of exam? I don't have anything major wrong, I just had an ache after a bowel movement that lasted for a couple of weeks off and on and I think I would feel better if I got it checked, but have no clue where to go. I thought I should probably go to a colon doctor but I see that many of those are also surgeons and I don't think that's where I should go for what I need. Can any of you advise me?

Thanks so much.

CDauthier · 03-17-2005, 10:08 PM

cb50,

Please, please go see a colon-rectal surgeon. They are experts in their field and will not only operate but advise and treat symptoms as well. Would you go to an eye doctor for a tooth ache? Talk to friends and see what colon-rectal doc they recommend...it's not something most people talk about (who thier colon-rectal doc is) but most will jump at the opportunity to tell you when asked!

Take care, Cathy

Harry · 03-17-2005, 10:27 PM

Hi-- I agree with Cathy!!
I have had better treatment for my colon problems with a co-rectal surgeon than the many Gastroenterologists I have seen.

God Bless---Harry

cb50 · 03-18-2005, 09:09 AM

Really? But the ones located here by me are surgeons, are you sure that's who I would go to just for a check-up? I'll call them later today and ask but I feel a little silly going when I don't really have any major compalints, just want a check-up. I called my internist's office and they said they send people down the hall to the Gastroenterology dept. for things in that nature or to schedule a colonoscopy. I understand what you're saying but from what I've read on here, most of you go to a Gastro doctor for check-ups and then are referred to a colon specialist when a problem is detected.

CDauthier · 03-18-2005, 11:18 AM

cb50,

All of the colon-rectal "surgeons" in our area do "check-ups" and colonoscopies in addition to surgery when required. If something is wrong and needs attention, you're better off going to a colon-rectal doc. Like I said before, they deal with this day in and day out. Why not skip the gastro doc and go right to where you can get the best info right from the start. Don't feel silly by calling for an appointment...you had pain that needs to be checked out. The internist's office sends people "down the hall" to the gastro dept.....these docs depend on each other for referral of patients. That doesn't mean that you have to go to their buddies...trust me, not trying to be saracastic...just want you to get the best of care!

Take care,
Cathy