Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass. The stool is often hard and dry. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, and feeling as if one has not completely passed the bowel movement. Complications from constipation may include hemorrhoids, anal fissure or fecal impaction.
Primary care doctors, such as internists and family doctors, may treat people who have mild P.A.D. For more advanced P.A.D., a vascular specialist may be involved. This is a doctor who specializes in treating blood vessel diseases and conditions.
Gastroenterologists are the most common phyician who performs colonoscopy. Some surgeons also perform them. Gastroenterologists typically do colonoscopies in the community. Family doctors will sometimes do flexible sigmoidoscopy but aren't qualified for full colonoscopy. Colorectal surgeons will also perform colonoscopy.