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Diseases Of Anus And Rectum

Discover comprehensive care for anus and rectum conditions at GastroDoxs in Houston, led by board-certified GI specialist Dr. Rishi Chadha. From hemorrhoids and fissures to fistulas and abscesses, Dr. Chadha offers expert diagnosis, personalized treatments, and endoscopic procedures for relief.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Straining during constipation
  • Frequent diarrhea
  • Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Infections of the anal area (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
  • Injury or trauma to the anal region
  • Prolonged sitting (desk jobs, driving)
  • Heavy lifting or repeated bearing down
  • Family history of anorectal conditions

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red blood in stool or on toilet paper
  • Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
  • Burning, itching, or soreness around the anus
  • Swelling, lumps, or bumps near the anal opening
  • Pus or fluid discharge from the rectum
  • Mucus leakage

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Diseases Of Anus And Rectum?

Dr. Rishi uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Symptom Review

He discusses your symptoms, bowel habits, lifestyle factors and relevant medical history.

Physical Examination

Dr. Chadha performs a gentle external inspection and digital rectal exam to check for lumps, tears or swelling.

Proctoscopic Evaluation

Using an anoscope or proctoscope, he directly visualizes the anal canal and lower rectum for hemorrhoids, fissures or lesions.

Endoscopic Procedures

  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy to inspect the distal colon and rectum.
  • Colonoscopy when a full evaluation of the colon is needed to rule out other conditions.

Imaging Studies (if indicated)

  • Endoanal ultrasound to assess fistula tracts and sphincter muscle integrity.
  • Pelvic MRI to map complex fistulas or abscesses prior to treatment.

Additional Testing (rare cases)

In select patients, Dr. Chadha may order laboratory studies or specialized evaluations to exclude inflammatory or infectious conditions.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for anus and rectum conditions.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Drink plenty of water every day
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements
  • Use warm sitz baths for soothing relief
  • Stay active with regular exercise

2. Medications

  • Topical creams or suppositories to reduce pain and swelling
  • Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
  • Antibiotics for treating infections
  • Stool softeners or mild laxatives to ease constipation

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids
  • Sclerotherapy injections to shrink swollen veins
  • Laser therapy to control bleeding
  • Endoscopic removal of small growths
  • Minimally invasive surgery for complex cases
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between hemorrhoids and fissures?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal; fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus.

Do fissures heal on their own?

Yes. Most anal fissures heal with conservative care fiber, hydration, and sitz baths in about 4-6 weeks.

Are abscesses painful?

Yes. Anorectal abscesses often cause intense pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes fever.

Can I prevent hemorrhoids?

Often, yes. A high-fiber diet, plenty of water, regular exercise, and avoiding straining can reduce your risk.

When is fistula surgery needed?

Surgery is recommended when non-surgical treatments (antibiotics, seton placement) fail to close the fistula.

Do I need a colonoscopy?

Not always. Dr. Chadha may order one to rule out other conditions if bleeding or other red flags are present.

Is rubber band treatment painful?

Most patients report minimal discomfort. No general anesthesia is needed, and recovery is swift.

Does insurance cover these treatments?

Most major plans cover evaluations and procedures. Our team will verify benefits and assist with pre-authorization.

Can children get anal fissures?

Yes. Children often develop fissures from constipation or passing large, hard stools.

How soon can I return to work?

For light duties, many return the next day. Full recovery from minor procedures typically takes 1-2 weeks.

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