Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following anal and rectal problem-related questions:

1. What kind of anal or rectal problem do I have?
   
   
2. Is this problem likely to lead to more serious complications?
   
   
3. What may be the best treatment for my problem?
   
   
4. How long will it take to treat my problem?
   
   
5. What activities should I avoid during treatment?
   
   
6. When will I be able to resume my normal daily activities?
   
   
7. Is my particular medical issue hereditary? Should members of my family be screened?
   
   
8. Are my child’s (or infant’s) bowel habits in the normal range or is there the possibility of a problem?
   
   
9. How may I prevent this and other anal and rectal problems in the future?
   
   
10. Which signs or symptoms should I report to you immediately?
    
    
11. Is this problem related to other gastrointestinal problems?