We make it convenient to book an appointment. Please schedule a visit here.
Skip to main content

Blog Archive

Can an Anal Fistula Heal on Its Own? Apr 2nd, 2024

When an abscess affects the anal area, a tunnel can form between the skin of the buttocks and the anal canal. Called an anal fistula, it’s a painful condition that carries a high risk of complications if left untreated.  Symptoms of an anal fistula include pain and inflammation in the...

I’ve Been Diagnosed with Anal Warts; Now What? Mar 1st, 2024

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s acquired through skin-to-skin, intimate contact with an infected person. While there are over 150 strains of the virus, only a few present elevated risks.  Anal...

Chronic Anal Itching: When Should I Consult an Expert? Feb 7th, 2024

Anal itching can be embarrassing to experience and talk about, especially when it happens frequently. Pruritus ani, as it’s medically known, might not be a big deal if the problem is sporadic, but when it becomes chronic, you’ll want to find a solution. That’s when it’s time to consult an...

How Recurrent Anal Abscesses Increase Your Risk of Developing a Fistula Jan 7th, 2024

Glands inside the anus can sometimes become blocked with bacteria, fecal matter, or other foreign debris, causing an infection within the gland. This infection produces pus and creates a painful anal abscess that usually requires surgical drainage.  Anal fistulas are abnormal channels under the skin that connect the anal canal...

Can Pilonidal Disease Return After Surgery? Dec 19th, 2023

Pilonidal disease typically forms near the top of the buttocks, near the tailbone. Pockets of hair and debris get trapped under the skin and cause infection, often chronic. While common in young people, it is also prone to occur in anyone who sits for long periods of time.  When the...

When Rectal Bleeding Requires Medical Attention Nov 16th, 2023

Blood may show up on toilet tissue or in the bowl after a bowel movement. When you’re not expecting it, you may feel shocked. For most people, it’s not a regular occurrence, and it’s easy to expect the worst.  While not all cases of rectal bleeding are serious, many require...

Do I Need Surgery for My Hemorrhoids? Oct 1st, 2023

It’s little consolation to know that hemorrhoids are a common problem when you’re dealing with active symptoms. In many cases, hemorrhoids are minor, and you can resolve them with conservative care. Sometimes, painful clots can form externally. The minor inconvenience becomes a medical issue that can dominate your days. You could require...

4 Reasons You Might Have Anal Tags Sep 1st, 2023

Although they’re usually benign and rarely cause pain, anal skin tags can sometimes be itchy and uncomfortable. They might simply annoy you or feel like a cosmetic nuisance. It’s not always clear why these tags form in the first place, and it’s OK to want them gone. Removing anal skin tags is...

Anal Itching at Night: What Could It Mean? Aug 1st, 2023

There may not be an explanation for why you’re suffering from anal itching, a medical condition known as pruritus ani. In many cases, though, there are possible contributors that respond to self-care. If you can’t clear up these symptoms yourself, it may be time to see a specialist.  In the Denver metropolitan...

Surgical Treatment to Repair Anal Fissures Jul 10th, 2023

Small tears in the tissues of the anal canal can happen to anyone, particularly when you’re  constipated or when straining to pass large or hard stools. Called anal fissures, these are common problems that too often cannot heal on their own. Anal fissures can turn into a longer lasting, chronic...

Surgical Treatment for Fistulas Jun 1st, 2023

Usually developing after an abscess in an anal gland, a fistula tunnels from the anal canal to the skin of the buttocks surrounding the anus. Looking like an ulcer on your skin, the fistula’s opening usually coincides with pain and swelling in the immediate area. It may release pus, too. ...

Rectal Bleeding Without Hemorrhoids: 3 Known Causes May 4th, 2023

Rectal bleeding often comes as a surprise, and it’s not a welcome one. People who suffer from hemorrhoids may be used to the occasional appearance of blood on toilet paper, in the bowl, or on the stool. It’s perhaps the most common reason for rectal bleeding.  You may notice bleeding from your rectum...

Pilonidal Cleft Lift Surgery Apr 1st, 2023

A chronic skin infection near your tailbone, just above the crease in your buttocks, can be more than annoying. The lower back is a common spot for coarse body hair to get caught under the skin, which can cause pilonidal disease. This problem affects more than 70,000 people in the US...

2 Types of Hemorrhoids and What They Mean Mar 21st, 2023

Over half of the American population over the age of 50 has had an experience with hemorrhoid symptoms. Everyone has hemorrhoids but it’s not until you develop problems that they may need treatment. A visit to Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, can lead to diagnosis and treatment...

Anal Warts vs. Tags: How to Tell the Difference Feb 1st, 2023

As soon as you notice something unusual, such as anal growths, it’s important to have them evaluated. Anal skin tags and anal warts are two types of anal growths that share similarities in appearance. Visiting a colon and rectal specialist can help you get an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate treatment.  At Colorado Colon &...

Pilonidal Cyst Surgery Jan 1st, 2023

Pilonidal surgery is the most effective treatment for a painful skin and soft tissue infection that commonly develops in the crease of the buttocks.  As a board-certified colorectal surgeon, Lisa Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS, of Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, has expertise in performing pilonidal surgery.  ...

The Link Between Diabetes and Anal Itching Dec 6th, 2022

If you have diabetes and are dealing with an itchy bottom, there may be a connection. Having diabetes makes it more likely that you may develop certain health issues, and some of those may cause anal itching. A colon and rectal specialist is the ideal health provider to evaluate your...

When You Should See a Doctor About Rectal Bleeding Nov 30th, 2022

Rectal bleeding can occur for many reasons. Most of the time it isn’t a sign of a serious health issue. However, it’s still important to see a colon and rectal specialist to rule out anything serious. If you notice blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet, don’t put...

What Causes Condyloma? Oct 2nd, 2022

Condyloma is the medical name for warts that develop in or near your anus. They’re caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that spreads through sexual or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.  Anal warts require a diagnosis by a specialist like board-certified colon and rectal surgeon Lisa Perryman, MD,...

Anal Skin Tags: Treatment and Prevention Sep 4th, 2022

Anal skin tags are common, typically harmless growths that develop on the outside of the anus. When you feel around, you may notice that they feel like warts or hemorrhoids. Skin tags can appear anywhere on the body, although they are most commonly the result of irritation or friction. You’re...

Why Does Pregnancy Put Me at Risk for Hemorrhoids? Aug 9th, 2022

Although hemorrhoids can strike at any time, pregnancy increases the chances of developing them. Increased blood volume, hormonal changes, and increased abdominal pressure are key factors in the heightened risk for hemorrhoids during pregnancy. At Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, Lisa Perryman, MD, diagnoses and treats a full range of...

How Your Diet Can Help Prevent Hemorrhoids Jul 1st, 2022

Hemorrhoids develop when pressure causes the tissue in and around the rectum and anus to swell and become inflamed. They can be external or internal and range in severity from mild to significantly bothersome.  If you have hemorrhoids, it’s wise to visit a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon like Lisa Perryman,...

Anal Itching: Causes and Self-Care Tips Jun 1st, 2022

Although many people experience it on occasion, anal itching is a subject many patients are hesitant to discuss. It’s important to know that anal itching is nothing to feel embarrassed about. If the itching is persistent and is causing you significant discomfort or is accompanied by other symptoms such as...

Causes and Prevention of Anal Fissures May 1st, 2022

An anal fissure is caused by a small tear in the thin, moist tissue that lines the anus. It can form when you pass hard or large stools during a bowel movement. If you have an anal fissure, you may experience pain and bleeding. Spasms in the anal sphincter (the...

Who’s At Risk for Colon Cancer? Mar 1st, 2022

Knowing your colon cancer risk factors helps you maintain healthy habits and have more educated conversations with your health care provider about colon cancer screening. You can’t change some risk factors, but others are within your control.  Board-certified colon and rectal surgeon Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS at Colorado...

Strategies for Managing Hemorrhoid Flare-Ups Feb 1st, 2022

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed tissue in the rectum and anus that can cause anal itching and discomfort. Most people deal with hemorrhoids for a long time before seeking medical help for the problem. Hemorrhoids are very common, and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed to talk to a medical professional about it. ...

Why Am I So Itchy Back There? Jan 1st, 2022

You may feel hesitant to discuss anal itching with a health care provider, but this issue is nothing to feel embarrassed about. Anal itching is a common problem, and the causes range from lifestyle factors to medical conditions. If you’re dealing with anal itching that isn’t going away, it’s wise...

Should I Be Worried About Anal Tags? Dec 5th, 2021

It's perfectly normal to feel concerned about growths that arise on any part of the body including the rectum and anus. After all, certain growths may go on to develop into cancer.  The anus starts at the last portion of the colon and may develop soft growths known as skin...

How to Prepare for Your Colonoscopy Nov 3rd, 2021

Colon and rectal cancer are the leading gastrointestinal cancers. Colonoscopy technology plays a key role in screening for and detecting colorectal cancer. In the early stages, colorectal cancer rarely causes apparent symptoms, making it crucial to get regular colonoscopy screenings.  Doctors diagnose more than 100,000 new cases of colorectal cancer...

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Hemorrhoids Oct 5th, 2021

Most people notice rectal bleeding as bright red blood on toilet paper. Rectal bleeding is commonly associated with hemorrhoids, as well as digestive disorders. Most cases of rectal bleeding are not life-threatening. However, you should never ignore any signs of it. At Colorado Colon and Rectal Specialists, dedicated proctologist and...

Everything You Need to Know About Pilonidal Disease Sep 9th, 2021

Pilonidal disease is a long-term, often relapsing skin infection that develops in the area just above the buttock crease (gluteal cleft). It happens when the body reacts to hair embedded beneath the skin. Trapped hair causes the body to react the same as it would to a foreign body. A...

Anal Fistula Signs and Treatment Aug 15th, 2021

Colon and rectal health play a large role in overall bowel health. An anal fistula is accompanied by a seris of uncomfortable symptoms that can impact your quality of life. The specialists at Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, can detect and treat anal fistulas. Dr. Lisa Perryman,...

What’s That Lump in My Butt? Jul 20th, 2021

An unknown lump in your butt can seem scary until you’ve diagnosed the problem. In most cases, the lump can be cured by a simple in-office procedure, solution application, or prescribed medication. If very extensive, surgery may be required to permanently remove anal warts. If you have diabetes, ulcerative colitis,...

What Does Rectal Bleeding Indicate? Jun 15th, 2021

Rectal bleeding can seem frightening. Rectal bleeding is a symptom of common ailments such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcers, and colorectal cancer.  You may notice rectal bleeding on toilet paper after a trip to the bathroom. It may also be present in your stool. If you...

When Do Hemorrhoids Require Medical Intervention? May 18th, 2021

There’s nothing quite like the irritation of hemorrhoids. The swollen hemorrhoid tissue in the anus or lower rectum affects up to 75% of adults at some point. And while they aren’t always painful, they can bring severe pain and make going about your daily life and tending to your restroom...

Do I need a Colorectal Surgeon or a Gastroenterologist? Apr 5th, 2020

What is the difference between a colorectal surgeon and a gastroenterologist? This is a very common question that we receive and often patients are unsure of which field is appropriate for their needs. Although these fields overlap in some areas, the specialties are actually very different in the conditions they treat...

2019 Novel Coronavirus and Patient Safety Mar 11th, 2020

As healthcare providers, our first priority is serving our patients and community. We are taking precautions to ensure we can continue caring for our patients. In addition, the CDC has provided recommended preventive measures to help reduce the spread of the virus. Wash your hands often with soap and water...

Why is there blood in my stool? Feb 3rd, 2020

There are several reasons why you may see blood in your stool. It’s more common to see blood on the outside of your stool, such as a drop or two of blood in the toilet after a bowel movement or a small amount of blood after wiping. Two most common...

Is 45 The New 50? When Should You Get Screened For Colon Cancer? Dec 17th, 2019

The American Cancer Society lowered its recommended colon cancer screening age from 50 to 45 last year. Today, young-onset colorectal cancer survivor and business leader, Scott Wilson, is leading efforts in Colorado to mandate this age reduction and require insurance companies to cover colonoscopy costs beginning at age 45. The...

What are Anal Skin Tags, and Should They be Removed? Nov 3rd, 2019

What are Anal Skin Tags, and Should They be Removed? An anal skin tag is an excess growth of skin around the anus. Anal skin tags are almost always benign and rarely cause pain. However, skin tags can cause discomfort and itching. They are usually small and may be your...

Anxiety Before Your Colonoscopy? Oct 11th, 2019

Anxiety before your colonoscopy is not abnormal, especially if it is your first one! We would like to take a couple minutes to ease your concerns and answer a few frequently asked questions we receive about colonoscopy procedures. Does a colonoscopy hurt? Can my colon rupture during the procedure? Why...

2019 Denver Undy Fun Run/Walk Jul 16th, 2019

8Mar11:00AM B is for BEAT E is for EARLY DETECTION H is for HEALTHY HINEY I is for INFORMATION N is for NECESSARY D is for DIAGNOSIS What are the possible results after a colonoscopy? Normal- No polyps were found in your colon and you’ll likely repeat a colonoscopy in...

ANAL WARTS (CONDYLOMA) – Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis Jun 28th, 2019

What are anal warts? The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons defines anal warts also called “condyloma acuminata” as a condition that affects the area around and inside the anus. They may also affect the skin of the genital area. What causes anal warts? Anal warts are caused by...

Cycling and Hemorrhoids… Is there a connection? May 29th, 2019

Creative common How I bike from Presurfer from office.com copyright cc 2011 The amazing trails and panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains make Colorado one of the best places in the country for cycling enthusiasts. It is more of an anomaly to not have a bike here than to have...

Congratulations, it’s a GIRL… and a pregnancy Hemorrhoid! May 7th, 2019

Growing a human being is undoubtedly a wonder, but for many women, it certainly has its downsides. When pregnant, there is a lot of commiserating about the ailments that come along with pregnancy; nausea, fatigue, weight gain, etc. Comparing stories about pregnancy and labor is a form of nostalgia for...

Weightlifters and Hemorrhoids Apr 1st, 2019

When it comes to fitness and health, lifting weights regularly paired with good nutrition can create lasting results. Being dedicated to this method of exercise can benefit our entire mind, body and spiritual health. It can control body weight issues, keep us focused and relaxed, and make us strong. Sounds...

Cologuard vs Colonoscopy – Which is Better? Aug 21st, 2018

As a board-certified colon & rectal surgeon, I’m often asked about the differences between colonoscopies with your doctor vs. the Cologuard at-home test. Cologuard has raised lots of hype recently with all the tv, print and digital advertising. Questions have been raised: Is Cologuard as safe as a colonoscopy? Is...

Running with Hemorrhoids Jun 4th, 2018

What do Beijing, Berlin, Boston, Chicago, Dubai, Gold Coast, London, NYC, Prague, and Tokyo have in common? In addition to being home to the world’s top 10 marathons, they’re home to hemorrhoids….hundreds and hundreds of hemorrhoids. Running with hemorrhoids can be a painful experience for some. Understanding what hemorrhoids are,...

What’s that Pain in My Butt? Mar 29th, 2018

Hemorrhoids are a common culprit. They can be either inside or outside your rectum, and they really hurt when they’re angry! Some say Napoleon Bonaparte was forced to ride side saddle because of hemorrhoids. Most don’t know that hemorrhoids are normal, and that we have them from birth. They exist...

10th Annual UndyRunWalk – June 23rd Mar 29th, 2018

Join Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists for the 10th Annual UndyRunWalk! This event will be held on June 23rd, 2018, at City Park in Denver. Help us support the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and increase awareness for their cause. Visit undyrunwalk.org to find more information.

Blue Hope Bash Denver – Colorectal Cancer Alliance Mar 2nd, 2018

March 2, 2018 – More than 200 people dressed in blue attended the 1st annual event held downtown Denver at the magnificent McNichols Civic Center Building. Buildings, including the Colorado State Capitol Building, were lit blue to raise awareness of colon cancer. Colon cancer is the #2 cancer killer, and...

Why Does My Butt Itch? [Practical information you need] Feb 8th, 2018

Pruritus Ani is Latin for “itchy anus”, and is a bothersome irritation of the skin around the anus. Numerous factors can cause anal itch, and it is treatable. Factors that can put you more at risk include dietary factors, fecal matter on underwear, diabetes, antibiotic use, skin conditions such as...

Congratulations to Dr. Perryman – 2017 United Healthcare Premium Care Physician Oct 30th, 2017

United Healthcare has awarded Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS, its 2017 Premium Care Physician designation for providing quality and cost-efficient care. Dr. Perryman is a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon serving patients throughout the Denver metro area. The UnitedHealth Premium program helps members make informed choices for their medical...

9NEWS Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Apr 24th, 2017

9NEWS/NBC selected Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists’ Dr. Lisa A. Perryman, FACS, FASCRS, to launch Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March 2017. It marked the return of the popular 9NEWS Buddy Check9, which highlights different types of cancer each month. March is colorectal cancer awareness month, and like breast cancer has...

Colorado Health Neighborhood Insurance Feb 22nd, 2017

We are now participating in the Colorado Health Neighborhood Network and accepting CHN insurance plans. There are several policies listed under these plans. Some of them are held under UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Bright Health. If you have any specific questions regarding whether you have these...

2016 Beers 4 Rears Fundraiser May 19th, 2016

Thank you to everyone that participated in and donated to this year’s Beers 4 Rears fundraiser at Dry Dock Brewery! We had a RECORD turn out! All proceeds made last night will support colon cancer awareness, help fund local patient’s colonoscopies who are uninsured or under insured, and fund programs for persons currently going...

Colon Health and Your Diet Jan 7th, 2016

Start the New Year off right by improving your colon health through eating a healthy diet. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published research linking red meat and processed meat to colon cancer.  Decreasing the amount of processed meat in your diet may reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Make...

Undy Run/Walk Event Jun 30th, 2015

A big thanks to everyone who supported Beers 4 Rears and the Undy Run/Walk event. This is the 3rd year we have participated in the Undy Run/Walk event. Our team name is the Healthy Hiney. The Undy Run/Walk took place at City Park in Denver on June 27th. It was...

Beers 4 Rears FUNdraiser Apr 29th, 2015

Colon cancer is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., yet most people don’t talk about it. Colon cancer is preventable by getting routine colonoscopy screenings.While rates for colon cancer in adults 50 and older have been declining due to routine screening recommendations, incidence rates in adults younger...

Introducing Our New Patient Portal Mar 23rd, 2015

We will soon be adding a patient portal.  Both new and existing patients can use this portal to: *Access your medical records held with our office *Pay your bill online and choose to receive e-statements *Communicate with us electronically *Schedule an appointment or request for our office to contact you...

Dress in Blue Day for Colon Cancer Awareness Mar 10th, 2015

Friday March 6, 2015 was national Dress in Blue Day to promote colon cancer awareness. This event is held for one day every March in support of this important cause. Our office celebrates for a future free of colon cancer as well as in support of our patients. We went all out...

Dr. Perryman Featured in Grow Magazine Jan 20th, 2015

Dr. Perryman is featured in the newest edition of Centura Health’s Grow Magazine. Screening colonoscopies may reduce the risk of new, late- stage cancer by 70 percent, according, to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania. Colon cancer awareness month is fast approaching in March so be sure to talk to...

Screen This Too! Oct 3rd, 2014

October has become know for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, even sometimes being called ‘Pinktober’. During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Colon Cancer Alliance’s Screen This Too campaign encourages people to remember the importance of colon health in addition to breast health. Get your colonoscopy. It could save your life!...

Undy 5000 (5k run/1 mile walk)- Denver-June 28, 2014 Jun 25th, 2014

Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists is proud to say we are participating in the Denver Undy 5000! This is an event in support of colon cancer survivors and the loved ones that have been lost. Please join us at City Park this Saturday June 28, 2014. You can join our...

Beers 4 Rears!!! May 13th, 2014

Colon cancer is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., yet most people don’t talk about it. Colon cancer is preventable by getting routine colonoscopy screenings. There are currently more than 1 million colon cancer survivors in the United States. These statistics were taken from the American Cancer...

Infrared Coagulation Oct 31st, 2013

Q&A: Regarding Infrared Coagulation (IRC) What is Infrared Coagulation? IRC is a non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment that can be performed in the office without anesthesia. It is a technique used to shrink internal hemorrhoid tissue by applying a controlled amount of infrared energy to the hemorrhoid. How does it work? IRC works by...

Anal Fissure Jul 13th, 2012

An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the lining of the anal canal.  Anal fissures may be caused by constipation, the passing of large, hard stools, or by prolonged diarrhea.  An Anal fissure may occur secondary to decreased blood flow or trauma to the area. Anal fissures are...

Fixed Price Colonoscopy Jul 2nd, 2012

Dr. Perryman participates with Parker Adventist Hospital in the fixed price colonoscopy program. Fixed price colonoscopies are for patients who do not have insurance coverage. There is a set fee of $1,000.00 which covers all expenses related to the procedure. Please call our office at 303-840-8822 if you need any...

What is a virtual colonoscopy Jun 13th, 2012

What is a virtual colonoscopy? A virtual colonoscopy is different from a regular colonoscopy. The virtual colonoscopy is performed in the radiology department of a hospital or medical center. No sedatives are needed and no scope is used. You will lie on your left side on a narrow table that...

Rectal Bleeding Jun 6th, 2012

The most common misconception about rectal bleeding is that it is coming from hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be the cause of rectal bleeding; however, there are many other conditions that can cause rectal bleeding. These conditions include but are not limited to, colon cancer/rectal cancer, anal fissures, constipation, polyp(s), and Inflammatory Bowel Disease,...

WEBCAST Mar 12th, 2012

Colorectal Cancer and Digestive Health Awareness Webcast   Click here for more information    Be sure to click the link above and join in on March 28th as The American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons answer your questions about the importance of early detection and provide information on treatment...

March 2nd is Dress In Blue Day! Feb 29th, 2012

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.  Did you know that colon cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer?   The good news is that screening tests, such as colonoscopies, can save 30,000 lives each year.  These tests not only detect colorectal cancer early, but can also prevent colorectal cancer.  When you...

You can Prevent Colon Cancer Dec 1st, 2011

Colon Cancer is the Second Leading Cause of Cancer Death However, the good news is that regular screening colonoscopies can prevent colon cancer from starting. Screening detects growths in your colon (called “polyps”) so they can be painlessly removed before they turn into cancer. Colon cancer can occur at any age, but...

What Causes Hemorrhoids? Dec 1st, 2011

Hemorrhoids are vascular cushions in the anal canal.  Hemorrhoids are normal.  However, if these vascular cushions become enlarged or inflamed, symptoms, such as bleeding, discomfort, swelling or protrusion, may result.  Hemorrhoids become enlarged from increased pressure in the lower rectum.  Factors causing increased pressure include:  constipation, straining, prolonged sitting on...