Primary care
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Hemorrhoids are one of the most frequent anorectal disorders encountered in the primary care setting. They are the most common cause of hematochezia, and are responsible for considerable patient suffering and disability. With the techniques of diagnosis and office-based interventions described in this article, the primary care provider can effectively relieve most patients' symptoms and ensure that more significant bowel disease is not overlooked.
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A systematic approach to the patient with anorectal complaints allows for an accurate and efficient diagnosis of the underlying problem. The process can be divided into the interview, the examination, treatment, and conveyance of information. Throughout this process, the patient must be reassured and made as comfortable as possible. A successful interaction with the patient leads to a diagnosis and a treatment plan that is acceptable to both the physician and the patient.