Colorectal Medicine in Nepal

Colorectal medicine is a field of medicine that focuses on the disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus. Physicians specializing in this field of medicine are called colorectal doctor or colon and rectal doctor. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of diseases, including Hemorrhoids, Anal itching, Fistulas, Anal fissures, Anal cancer, Colon cancer, Rectal cancer, Chron’s disease, Diverticulitis, Ulcerative colitis, Pilonidal cysts, Rectal prolapse, Fecal incontinence, Anal condyloma, Chronic constipation, Problems with bowel movements and urination.

Colorectal doctors are highly experienced and qualified to use numerous medical procedures to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. These procedures include, but are not limited to Physical exams, including evaluation of vital signs and blood pressure, Colonoscopy, Barium enema, Digital rectal examination, Capsule Endoscopy, Proctoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy, Defecating proctography, Bowel surveillance.

Some colorectal doctors are also trained to perform surgery, such as bowel obstruction repair, pelvic laparoscopy, colectomy, colostomy, hemorrhoidectomy, polypectomy, strictureplasty, and more depending on the patient’s particular condition. They can also prescribe medications, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

How Long Should I Stay in Nepal?

The length of stay depends on the type of procedure you underwent. For most diagnostic procedures, you should be able to leave Nepal within 2 to 3 days or until the results are ready. Once the result is ready, you will have to see your colorectal doctor. They will explain the results and discuss the treatment plan with you, if necessary. For surgical procedures, it is wise to stay for 3 to 7 days to let your body recover. You may also need to attend a follow-up checkup where your doctor removes the surgical stitches and monitor your healing progress.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

For many procedures, such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy, you should be able to resume normal activities within 24 hours or after the sedation wears off. With surgical procedures, it may take around six to twelve weeks until you can go back to your normal activity, with the exception of strenuous activities. Your doctor will give you a recovery timeline, which includes when you can return to work and your full daily activities.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your medical team will give you aftercare instructions. It may include recommended diet, exercises, activity restrictions, and wound care (if any incision were made). For cancer patients, you may need to attend regular checkups. You do have the option to have the checkups with your local doctor at home if you cannot travel to Nepal multiple times. For non-cancer patients, your doctor will decide whether you need a follow-up checkup or not.

What's the Success Rate?

Thanks to the continuous advancement of colorectal medicine, the diagnostic procedures are now more accurate and the treatments are more successful than they were previously. More and more procedures are performed using new techniques and technology as well. For example, your doctor can now explore the entire colon without creating any incision or causing significant discomfort to you by using colon capsule endoscopy. However, this does not mean that there are no risks to colorectal procedures. Although uncommon, you still need to be aware of the risks, such as bleeding and infection.

Are there Alternatives?

In some cases, your general physician may be able to diagnose and treat your condition. However, if they think you need specialist treatment, they will still refer you to a colorectal doctor. 

Colorectal Medicine in and around Nepal

Introduction

Nepal is a country in South Asia, sandwiched between India and China. Home to the mighty Mount Everest, this incredible country has diverse landscapes, from the Himalayan Mountains in the north to the sprawling plains in the south. Towering mountains, charming hill villages, golden mountains, and jungle wildlife, Nepal is truly one of the world’s best travel destinations. Beyond its nature and culture, this country is also increasingly popular for its healthcare. With its affordable high-quality medical facilities, Nepal is considered to have immense potential for medical tourism, due to the availability of good infrastructure, highly trained specialists, modern medical equipment, and relatively cheaper medical treatment. In fact, it’s currently the fastest-growing segment of the country’s tourism. Medical tourists coming to Nepal are usually seeking exceptionally high medical treatment at competitive rates. Some of the most sought after procedures are dental treatments, cardiac services, and neurological treatments. 

Popular Cities and Regions in Nepal

Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, is historic, enticing, spiritual, and vibrant. One of the most famous attractions in the city is the old town, where tourists can find the most popular Tibetan pilgrimage site, the Kathesimbhu Stupa. Another top attraction is Kumari Bahal, which is the home of the Kumari, the girl who is selected to be the town’s living symbol of Devi. Tourists looking to relax in a more laid-back vibe usually go to Pokhara. Stretching along the shore of an idyllic lake, it offers spectacular scenery. It also boasts a thriving adventure-sports industry, from paragliding to paddle boats. Anyone who wants to experience an ancient way of life should visit Bhaktapur, which is filled with artisan weave cloths, amazing cuisine, and beautiful temples.

Transport in Nepal

The main international airport in Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport, which serves flights to and from numerous cities in Asia, such as Delhi, Hong Kong, and Dubai. Getting around the country can be a challenge, but public transportation is available. Buses are affordable, however, they tend to be overloaded. Tourist buses are the best way to travel around as they are in good condition. 

Visas in Nepal

Citizens of India do not need a visa to enter Nepal without restrictions. Citizens of almost all nations, including the US and all EU countries, can obtain a visa on arrival that is valid for up to 90 days. Only holders of passports from 12 countries, need to have a visa in advance.

Weather in Nepal

Nepal has five seasons. Spring starts in March until May, it offers pleasant weather that is not too cold nor too hot. Summer arrives in June and ends in August, bringing hot temperatures of around 28°C. Monsoon from June to September receives rain almost every day. Autumn and pre-winter bring sunny and pleasant weather, while winter can be very cold. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: Nepali rupee (NPR) is the official currency. 1 USD converts to 115 NPR. 

2. Money & Payments: ATMs are available in major cities, such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants. Tipping is expected.

3. Local Language: The official language is Nepali. English is mainly spoken in tourism areas. 

4. Local Culture and Religion: Hinduism and Buddhism coexist in Nepal peacefully. Islam, Kiratism, and Christianity are in the minority.

5. Public Holidays: Some of the most celebrated public holidays are Maha Shivaratri, Buddha Jayanti, Sambidhaan Diwas, and Bhaitika.