Don't self-medicate based on internet information: a proctologist on the checklist before a visit and mandatory examinations after 40

"I had a patient who for 20 years treated what she thought was hemorrhoids with suppositories and ointments because she was ashamed of an examination. The problem seemed inconvenient but not serious to her, until an examination revealed a much more dangerous diagnosis," tells LIGA.net Volodymyr Batyna, a surgeon-proctologist of the highest category. Together with the doctor, we have compiled a list of useful tips on how to prepare for an examination, which symptoms should not be ignored, and whether the advice of chat GPT is safe.