What are the precautions for anal examination?

Anal examination mainly checks the condition of the rectum and anus. Choosing to breathe through the mouth during the examination can reduce tension in the anus. A digital rectal examination is when the doctor inserts his fingers into the patient's anus. This can help determine whether there are hemorrhoids, rectal tumors, and prostate hyperplasia.

The following points should be noted during the inspection:

1. Be gentle , because if you suddenly insert your finger into the anus with force, the sphincter may spasm due to stimulation, causing pain. Be especially careful when there are fissures or wounds in the anal canal. At this time, you can let the person breathe through their mouth to reduce tension in the anus.

2. Pay attention to the tension of the anal canal . A normal anal canal has good contraction force and elasticity and can only accommodate one finger. If the anal sphincter relaxes, it loses its elasticity, allowing 2 to 3 fingers to pass through and causing fecal incontinence. If the tension of the anal canal increases, it often indicates an inflammatory reaction.

3. Check the anorectal ring , which is composed of the internal and external anal sphincters, the levator ani muscles, and the puborectalis muscles. The contraction ability of this muscle ring can partially reflect the function of the anal sphincter. ,

4. Check the rectum . Almost 8 cm of the lower rectum can be felt. The anterior, posterior, left and right walls of the rectum should be carefully checked for tenderness, masses, and stenosis, and attention should be paid to the size, hardness, and mobility of the masses.

5. After the examination , check whether there is blood or mucus on the finger cuff. Pay attention to whether the bloodstains are bright red or dark red; the color, properties, and smell of the mucus, etc., which can be used as a reference for diagnosis.