American Academy of Family Physicians have two detailed articles on ‘Common Anorectal Conditions’ on their website. The articles are intended for doctors. They explain how doctors examine the anus. They discuss itching, pain, bleeding, lumps, constipation and incontinence of faeces.
www.aafp.org/afp/20010615/2391.html
www.aafp.org/afp/20010701/77.html

Core – the digestive disorders foundation is a UK not-for-profit organization that provides reliable information about all gut problems. They supply a range of leaflets, which are available on the ‘Information’ page of their website (www.corecharity.org.uk) or by post (send a large sae). Write to: Core, Freepost, LON4268, London, NW1 0YT indicating which specific leaflet or factsheet is required. Tel: 0207 486 0341 (this not a helpline).

Pfizer, the manufacturers of Anusol, have a very pleasant website about piles.
www.pilesadvice.co.uk

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturers of Preparation H for piles, have an informative and entertaining website. Look at the symptoms section, which includes a page on ‘Doctor’s examination’ (rectal examination). Careline in UK: 0845 111 0151.
www.preparationh.co.uk

• How the anus works
• Anal itching
• Anal pain
• Constipation
• Faecal incontinence
• Piles
• Seeing your doctor about an anal problem