EXPERT
Dr. Lynn M. OConnor, M.D.
Colon & Rectal Surgeon
Dr. Lynn OConnor is a colon and rectal surgeon practicing in Atlanta, GA. Dr. OConnor specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the colon, rectum and anus. As a colon and rectal surgeon, Dr. OConnor often treats conditions like rectal cancer, colon cancer, hemorrhoids, anal fissures and diverticulitis. Colon and rectal surgeons may be referred to you by your gastroenterologist if your doctor believes you need a surgical procedure.
Dr. Lynn M. O'Connor, M.D.
- HUNTINGTON, NY
- Accepting new patients
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Perianal abscess?
Good morning, Given the description of the symptoms, it is quite possible that you could have or a a perianal abscess or possibly a thrombosed external hemorrhoid or a prolapse READ MORE
Good morning, Given the description of the symptoms, it is quite possible that you could have or a a perianal abscess or possibly a thrombosed external hemorrhoid or a prolapse internal hemorrhoid. I would recommend evaluation with your primary care physician or a colorectal surgeon. Thank you, Lynn M. OConnor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS Chief, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery Mercy Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital 380 Park Ave, Huntington, NY 11743 2000 North Village Ave, Ste 407 Rockville Centre, NY 11570 631-350 6277 Office 631-350 2966 Fax www.colonandrectalsurgeryofnewyork.com<http://www.colonandrectalsurgeryofnewyork.com/>
When can I go back to work after the colon biopsy?
Most patients can return to work the day after a colon biopsy, barring any other medical co -morbidities or complications such as bleeding or perforation. Lynn M. OConnor, MD MPH READ MORE
Most patients can return to work the day after a colon biopsy, barring any other medical co -morbidities or complications such as bleeding or perforation. Lynn M. OConnor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS Chief, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery Mercy Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital 380 Park Ave, Huntington, NY 11743 2000 North Village Ave, Ste 407 Rockville Centre, NY 11570 631-350 6277 Office 631-350 2966 Fax www.colonandrectalsurgeryofnewyork.com<http://www.colonandrectalsurgeryofnewyork.com/>
Suddenly have rectal discharge. Should I be worried?
Hi, New onset colorectal issues such as rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits as well as anal discharge should warrant an evaluation by your physician and likely by a colorectal READ MORE
Hi, New onset colorectal issues such as rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits as well as anal discharge should warrant an evaluation by your physician and likely by a colorectal specialist. There are many issues that can cause discharge from weakened sphincter muscles, to prolapsed hemorrhoids to IBD and more.
Lost voice?
Hi, I am so sorry to hear what happened. If she threw up violently that may have stressed her vocal cords and she may need more time to heal unless there is permanent damage. It READ MORE
Hi, I am so sorry to hear what happened. If she threw up violently that may have stressed her vocal cords and she may need more time to heal unless there is permanent damage. It may be beneficial to have her make an appointment with an ENT surgeon for further evaluation and a second opinion.
Bronchitis and diarrhea?
Hi, If you are taking antibiotics for any reason and develop diarrhea significant enough for movements 30 times a day, you may have a condition called C diff Colitis. The next READ MORE
Hi, If you are taking antibiotics for any reason and develop diarrhea significant enough for movements 30 times a day, you may have a condition called C diff Colitis. The next most important step is to see your primary care physician for evaluation and possible stool studies.
I smell like poop all the time all of a sudden?
Hi, The first thing that would be in order would be to ask your physician to send stool and urine samples. The next thing would be to make sure you cleansing gently and effectively. READ MORE
Hi, The first thing that would be in order would be to ask your physician to send stool and urine samples. The next thing would be to make sure you cleansing gently and effectively. If those issues are addressed a complete physical examination and blood work may identify any other issues that may arise.
Does a hemorrhoidectomy require general anesthesia?
Hi, a hemorrhoidectomy can be performed under general anesthesia but it can also be performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia. The decision as to which kind of anesthesia READ MORE
Hi, a hemorrhoidectomy can be performed under general anesthesia but it can also be performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia. The decision as to which kind of anesthesia a patient receives may also depend on several other factors such as the patient’s body habitus and size, positioning of the patient, length of the procedure, and patient’s other medical problems. If you have any specific concerns, address them with your surgeon and the anesthesiologist prior to the surgery. Good luck!!!
What is this pimple in my private area?
Hi, there may be several reasons you have a pimple in that area. You don’t comment on whether it's painful or has increased in size. This is an issue I would suggest you have looked READ MORE
Hi, there may be several reasons you have a pimple in that area. You don’t comment on whether it's painful or has increased in size. This is an issue I would suggest you have looked at by your primary care or gynecologist first, with potential referral to a colorectal surgeon as needed. Thank you.
Damage to inner colon?
Hi,
It is not clear whether or not you may have had surgery. If not, I am unclear as to the damage you may be referring to – especially if your colonoscopy and radiographic READ MORE
Hi,
It is not clear whether or not you may have had surgery. If not, I am unclear as to the damage you may be referring to – especially if your colonoscopy and radiographic imaging have been normal. One of the best ways to achieve a healthy colon is with a healthy, well balanced high fiber diet with fruits, vegetables and leafy greens.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
It is not clear whether or not you may have had surgery. If not, I am unclear as to the damage you may be referring to – especially if your colonoscopy and radiographic imaging have been normal. One of the best ways to achieve a healthy colon is with a healthy, well balanced high fiber diet with fruits, vegetables and leafy greens.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Why have I been constipated for over a week?
Constipation can occur for several reasons, among them not eating enough of the right foods such as high fiber foods, fruits and vegetables as well as drinking enough water. Daily READ MORE
Constipation can occur for several reasons, among them not eating enough of the right foods such as high fiber foods, fruits and vegetables as well as drinking enough water. Daily exercise also helps to stimulate the colon. Certain medications may also slow transit time of stool or lead to constipation. Persistent change in bowel habits may also be a sign of something more serious such as a colon or rectal cancer. Patients should follow up with their primary care physician for full evaluation and possible referral to a specialist.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
I have a persistent anal itch?
Hi,
Sometimes a persistent itch can be something as simple as hemorrhoidal prolapse, fecal residue, or soilage, to anal warts or more. Perianal itching may occur due to overaggressive READ MORE
Hi,
Sometimes a persistent itch can be something as simple as hemorrhoidal prolapse, fecal residue, or soilage, to anal warts or more. Perianal itching may occur due to overaggressive cleansing in the perianal region. The best thing to do for something that has been consistent and not responsive to simple remedies is to have a full examination. If you go to your primary care surgeon or dermatologist, they may refer you to a colorectal surgeon who specializes in the anorectal area.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Sometimes a persistent itch can be something as simple as hemorrhoidal prolapse, fecal residue, or soilage, to anal warts or more. Perianal itching may occur due to overaggressive cleansing in the perianal region. The best thing to do for something that has been consistent and not responsive to simple remedies is to have a full examination. If you go to your primary care surgeon or dermatologist, they may refer you to a colorectal surgeon who specializes in the anorectal area.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Bowel blockage?
Hi,
I am sure this is a tough spot to be in, but this may be more than Lyme Disease. Your husband needs to be under the care of a primary care physician and may very well require READ MORE
Hi,
I am sure this is a tough spot to be in, but this may be more than Lyme Disease. Your husband needs to be under the care of a primary care physician and may very well require a colonoscopy. There are several insurance plans on the open market now that may fit your needs and financial budget. I urge you to look for those, and if your husband is not improving, he may need to go to the nearest emergency room for further evaluation.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
I am sure this is a tough spot to be in, but this may be more than Lyme Disease. Your husband needs to be under the care of a primary care physician and may very well require a colonoscopy. There are several insurance plans on the open market now that may fit your needs and financial budget. I urge you to look for those, and if your husband is not improving, he may need to go to the nearest emergency room for further evaluation.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
How long after colon surgery can I drive?
It depends on what kind of surgery you had, how you have healed, as well as your pain level, and if you are still taking narcotic pain medication, which can all affect your ability READ MORE
It depends on what kind of surgery you had, how you have healed, as well as your pain level, and if you are still taking narcotic pain medication, which can all affect your ability to drive. Laparoscopic colon surgery as opposed to open colon surgery may have a shorter time to healing as the incisions are not as big and the postoperative pain management requirement tends to be less. Typically, if you are able to get in an out of a car without assistance, turn around to look out of your rearview mirror, start and stop abruptly the car without pain, your wounds are healed and you have no pain or pain requirements you may be cleared by your doctor to drive. Everyone heals differently and the timeframes vary.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
How long is the procedure for removing colon polyps?
The answer to the question depends on the size and location of the polyp. Most polyps are removed during a colonoscopy which is an endoscopic examination of the large bowel and READ MORE
The answer to the question depends on the size and location of the polyp. Most polyps are removed during a colonoscopy which is an endoscopic examination of the large bowel and the distal part of the small bowel with a fiber optic camera on a flexible tube that is introduced through the anus. This procedure is usually no longer than 30 minutes unless there is several polyps that need to be removed or there is difficulty getting through the colon. However, if the polyp is too large to be removed endoscopically or biopsies reveal a cancer, then surgical intervention may be warranted.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
What type of anesthesia is used for colon and rectal surgery?
Hi,
Depending on what type of surgery you are having, the anesthesia provided may range for local anesthesia with intravenous sedation to general anesthesia as well as spinal READ MORE
Hi,
Depending on what type of surgery you are having, the anesthesia provided may range for local anesthesia with intravenous sedation to general anesthesia as well as spinal anesthesia. General anesthesia is usually provided for major abdominal procedures such as surgery for a colon or rectal cancer. The decision also takes into account your current health status and your level of morbidity.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Depending on what type of surgery you are having, the anesthesia provided may range for local anesthesia with intravenous sedation to general anesthesia as well as spinal anesthesia. General anesthesia is usually provided for major abdominal procedures such as surgery for a colon or rectal cancer. The decision also takes into account your current health status and your level of morbidity.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Will the ER remove hemorrhoids?
The ER may lance a swollen external hemorrhoid that contains a blot clot known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid, however in general the ER serves to diagnose, treat if possible or temporize READ MORE
The ER may lance a swollen external hemorrhoid that contains a blot clot known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid, however in general the ER serves to diagnose, treat if possible or temporize a non-emergent condition until you are able to be seen by a specialist. The ER will not perform an operation to remove hemorrhoids. If surgical intervention is required, the ER will notify a specialist on call to further evaluate and treat.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Is pooping blood an emergency?
Hi,
When a patient experiences blood during a bowel movement, the urgency or emergency would center around how much blood the person is passing, the patient’s current and prior READ MORE
Hi,
When a patient experiences blood during a bowel movement, the urgency or emergency would center around how much blood the person is passing, the patient’s current and prior medical history, symptoms they may be experiencing such as lightheadedness or dizziness, and what medications they may be taking. Blood per rectum, if profuse, may constitute a medical emergency and presentation to the ER such as with a GI bleed. There are times when hemorrhoids may bleed as well. If a patient is on blood thinners or anticoagulants, they may bleed profusely. If there are any concerns, your primary physician should be consulted or you may have to present to the nearest emergency room.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
When a patient experiences blood during a bowel movement, the urgency or emergency would center around how much blood the person is passing, the patient’s current and prior medical history, symptoms they may be experiencing such as lightheadedness or dizziness, and what medications they may be taking. Blood per rectum, if profuse, may constitute a medical emergency and presentation to the ER such as with a GI bleed. There are times when hemorrhoids may bleed as well. If a patient is on blood thinners or anticoagulants, they may bleed profusely. If there are any concerns, your primary physician should be consulted or you may have to present to the nearest emergency room.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Rectum problems?
There are certain times when a chronic anal fissure can become infected an progress to an enlarged painful abscess which can involve the extra skin around the anus called an anal READ MORE
There are certain times when a chronic anal fissure can become infected an progress to an enlarged painful abscess which can involve the extra skin around the anus called an anal tag. This is can cause discomfort and discharge. If this is the case, an appointment should be made and addressed by your doctor.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Does gastritis affect bowel movements?
Gastritis only affects the stomach and may include nausea and vomiting. It is a sudden inflammation or swelling in the lining of the stomach. Patients can experience bursts of READ MORE
Gastritis only affects the stomach and may include nausea and vomiting. It is a sudden inflammation or swelling in the lining of the stomach. Patients can experience bursts of nagging as well as severe pain. The pain usually lasts for short periods of time. Gastritis can be caused by stress, steroids, spicy foods, viruses, bacteria, injury and irritants such as alcohol. Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, may affect both the stomach and the intestines and may include diarrhea in addition to nausea or vomiting.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Diverticulitis ongoing and very painful?
Diverticulitis is an infection or inflammation of pouches that can form in your intestines. Diverticulitis can occur anywhere in the intestine but usually occurs in the sigmoid READ MORE
Diverticulitis is an infection or inflammation of pouches that can form in your intestines. Diverticulitis can occur anywhere in the intestine but usually occurs in the sigmoid colon. Diverticulitis can cause uncomfortable symptoms and in some cases, serious complications. If left untreated, these complications can cause long-term health problems. When patients present with increased frequency of attacks and worsening of symptoms, it would be imperative that they follow up with their primary care physicians or go to the emergency room.
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
Lynn M. O’Connor, MD MPH FACS FASCRS
