Colorectal Disease Treatment Specialist Q&A

Colorectal disease is used to describe the many digestive conditions that commonly affect the colon and rectum. Symptoms range from mild to severe and an accurate diagnosis can be difficult to determine as it resembles many other health complications. This is why understanding the importance of the role the colon plays within the digestive system. It will help provide insight into the various types of colorectal disease and how to treat them.

By using the latest technology and testing methods with minimally invasive endoscopic procedures, we can diagnose all types of colorectal diseases. One of the most common diagnostic tests that are used is colonoscopy. Many of our patients are uncomfortable around the idea of going through a procedure like a colonoscopy due to its invasiveness; however, the exam is typically completed in less than an hour and complications are quite rare.

Colonoscopies allow our doctor to investigate the lining of your colon which is one of the top ways to screen for colorectal cancer as well as any other diseases.

Early detection and treatment of colorectal diseases can significantly improve the outcome and survival rate of the diagnosed patients. It is important to see a colorectal disease specialist like ours at Digestive Disease Care (DDC), as they provide top-notch care and knowledge regarding colon and rectal conditions.

Treatments for colorectal disease will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and overall health. Our doctors may suggest one treatment or a combination of treatments to manage the various symptoms depending on your circumstances.

Possible treatments available for colorectal disease include:

Lifestyle Adjustments: Lifestyle adjustments may include changes to your diet and exercise as well as stress management which can also play a part in easing your symptoms of colorectal disease.

Medications: There are a few different medications that can be prescribed to our patients to treat colorectal disease. What is prescribed will depend on your allergies and other medical existing prescriptions you are using.

Surgery: Surgery may be an option for treatment, as colectomy or colostomy may be necessary to treat the colorectal disease.

Although colorectal and colon cancer share many similarities, there are differences between them, and it is important to note that they are not the same.

Colon cancer is equally common in both men and women. There are two treatment options available, radiation and surgical treatment, with the latter being the more common approach.

Rectal cancer mainly affects men, it is more difficult to treat rectal cancer than colon cancer as it metastases easily.

The symptoms are similar, which makes it difficult for many healthcare providers to distinguish between the two, this is why visiting a specialist like ours at Digestive Disease Care (DDC) to get an accurate diagnosis is important.

Colorectal disease symptoms can often share the same symptoms as other conditions, some common signs and symptoms of colorectal conditions may include:

Rectal bleeding: If you see blood located on your underwear, or in the toilet after a bowel movement, this is one sign that you need to talk to a healthcare provider.

Blood in your stool: Blood in your stool can make the stool appear black, or it can show up as red streaks within your stool.

Abdominal pain: If you have a large polyp, it can obstruct your bowel which can in turn cause cramping and constipation.

Constipation or diarrhea that is ongoing: Ongoing constipation or diarrhea that lasts over a week can also be an indication of colorectal disease.

Digestive Disease Care (DDC) use minimally invasive approaches to colorectal disease treatments. Digestive Disease Care (DDC) have specialists that are trained with extensive knowledge to manage the entire spectrum of benign and malignant colorectal diseases and conditions. We have convenient locations to serve you in Jamaica NY, Melville NY, New Hyde Park NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Mineola NY, Lake Success NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY, and BEYOND.