When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that can be itchy, painful, and cause bleeding during bowel movements. In many cases, hemorrhoids can be managed effectively at home through over-the-counter treatments, lifestyle changes, and home remedies.
However, there are times when hemorrhoid symptoms warrant seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis and more advanced treatment options. Knowing when to seek medical care can help find relief from severe or persisting hemorrhoids.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Don't Improve
Mild hemorrhoid cases often go away on their own or through conservative at-home care. But if your hemorrhoids persist longer than 1-2 weeks or keep recurring, see your doctor.
A physician can properly diagnose the cause and severity of recurring hemorrhoids. They may recommend medical procedures or prescription medications if hemorrhoids remain despite home treatments.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Cause Significant Pain
Hemorrhoids can be painless or mildly uncomfortable. But severe, unrelenting pain, especially if accompanied by bleeding, could indicate a complication needing medical attention.
A doctor can determine if a painful hemorrhoid is thrombosed, meaning a blood clot has formed. Thrombosed hemorrhoids typically require procedures to remove clots and reduce swelling and pain.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Bleed Frequently
Small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl after straining are common with hemorrhoids. But frequent, heavy, or excessive bleeding may suggest a more serious condition.
See your doctor right away if hemorrhoids cause persistent or severe bleeding. They can assess if bleeding is abnormal and may cauterize enlarged hemorrhoid veins to stop bleeding.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Cause a Lump
External hemorrhoids can sometimes form a painful lump under the skin around the anus. This may indicate a blood clot in an external hemorrhoid, called a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which often requires professional treatment.
See your doctor promptly if hemorrhoids cause a painful lump. They can confirm it is not a more serious anal abscess and help relieve pain and swelling.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Protrude Externally
If a hemorrhoid protrudes from the anus and remains constantly outside, this is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid which can be uncomfortable. Prolapsed hemorrhoids have a higher chance of becoming thrombosed.
See your doctor if you have a prolapsed hemorrhoid lasting more than a few days despite home treatments. They can reposition protruding hemorrhoids back inside and explore solutions to prevent recurrence.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Cause Discharge or Leakage
Some leakage of mucus or stool is common with hemorrhoids. But if you also notice pus, blood, or abnormal discharge, see your doctor.
This could indicate a complication like infection or abscess needing medical treatment. Doctors can determine the cause of any unusual leakage and provide proper hemorrhoid care.
See Your Doctor if You Have Hemorrhoids and a Fever
Hemorrhoids themselves dont cause fever. But if you have hemorrhoids combined with chills, fever, or severe pain, it may signify an infection or other issue requiring evaluation.
See your doctor promptly if hemorrhoids coincide with any fever over 101F. Fever with hemorrhoids can represent a potentially serious complication needing urgent assessment and treatment.
See Your Doctor if OTC Hemorrhoid Treatments Dont Help
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications, creams, and suppositories can treat many mild to moderate cases effectively. But if these provide little relief, a doctor can explore stronger prescription treatment options.
Physicians may prescribe stronger topical steroids, oral medications, medicated suppositories, or recommend procedures if OTC hemorrhoid treatments are ineffective at managing symptoms.
See Your Doctor if Hemorrhoids Interfere with Daily Life
If hemorrhoid pain, itching, or bleeding significantly affects your quality of life, see your doctor right away. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and severity and outline a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms.
Doctors have access to procedures and prescription treatments that can better shrink hemorrhoids and bring relief when they disrupt daily activities, sleep, work, using the bathroom, and more.
See Your Doctor if You Have Risk Factors for Hemorrhoids
People at higher risk for hemorrhoids include those ages 45-65, pregnant women, the obese, and those with chronic constipation or diarrhea. If at risk, see your doctor at the first sign of symptoms.
Doctors can confirm hemorrhoids early and help manage them proactively in higher risk groups. Early treatment helps prevent complications and minimize disruption to daily life.
See Your Doctor if Unsure Hemorrhoid Diagnosis is Accurate
Rectal bleeding, pain, and itching can sometimes indicate conditions other than hemorrhoids. So see your doctor if youre unsure your self-diagnosis is correct.
Doctors can perform an exam, rule out other causes, and definitively diagnose hemorrhoids based on symptoms. A medical diagnosis provides peace of mind and guides proper treatment.
See Your Doctor if You Have Hemorrhoids with IBD, IBS, or Diverticulitis
Hemorrhoids may develop secondary to other gastrointestinal issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or diverticulitis.
If you have hemorrhoids along with IBD, IBS, diverticulitis or other GI conditions, consult your doctor. They can tailor treatments for both issues and help minimize complications.
Types of Doctors That Treat Hemorrhoids
The following medical specialists diagnose and treat hemorrhoids:
Primary Care Doctor
Primary care physicians (PCPs) like family doctors or internists are a good first stop for suspected hemorrhoids. They can confirm the diagnosis, prescribe medications, and refer to specialists for procedures if needed.
General Surgeon
General surgeons can diagnose hemorrhoids and surgically remove or shrink them through procedures like hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoidopexy, and rubber band ligation.
Gastroenterologist
Gastroenterologists specialize in digestive system disorders including hemorrhoids. They endoscopically diagnose and treat hemorrhoids using methods like sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, and banding.
Colorectal Surgeon
Colorectal surgeons focus on surgical procedures involving the colon, rectum, and anus. They frequently treat more severe hemorrhoid cases needing surgical hemorrhoidectomy.
Proctologist
Proctologists focus on diagnosing and treating disorders of the anus and rectum including hemorrhoids. They may surgically remove hemorrhoids or utilize office procedures to shrink them.
What to Expect at a Doctors Visit for Hemorrhoids
When seeing a doctor for hemorrhoids, you can generally expect:
Medical History Review
The doctor will ask about your hemorrhoid symptoms, risk factors, family history, medications, and any past treatment efforts. Providing full details helps guide diagnosis and treatment.
Visual Exam of the Anal Area
The doctor will visually inspect the anus and rectum, looking for signs of hemorrhoids or other abnormalities needing treatment.
Digital Rectal Exam
The doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for masses, enlarged veins, or other issues that may be causing symptoms.
Additional Diagnostic Tests
If the cause of symptoms is unclear, the doctor may order additional tests like a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to check for other conditions.
Discussion of Treatment Options
Based on exam findings and test results, the doctor will discuss medical and procedural treatment options tailored to your case. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, office procedures, or possible surgery.
Together you can develop a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause of hemorrhoids.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Hemorrhoids
When visiting a doctor about hemorrhoids, questions to ask include:
- What is causing my hemorrhoid symptoms?
- How can I tell if bleeding or pain is severe enough that I should come in?
- Are my hemorrhoids internal or external?
- Are there any visible thrombosed hemorrhoids that need treatment?
- Could hemorrhoid symptoms be caused by another condition like IBD or colon polyps?
- What over-the-counter medications do you recommend?
- Are prescription medications, suppositories, or creams needed?
- Am I a candidate for office procedures to reduce hemorrhoids?
- Could hemorrhoid surgery be necessary in my situation?
- What lifestyle changes can help treat and prevent recurrence?
Being informed about your specific case and all treatment options helps you participate in care decisions to effectively manage hemorrhoid symptoms.
Preparing for Your Hemorrhoid Doctor Appointment
To make the most of your doctor visit for hemorrhoids:
- Note all symptoms like pain, bleeding, itching, swelling, and changes over time
- Make a list of current medications and supplements
- Detail any OTC treatments or home remedies youve tried
- Write down questions and concerns to discuss
- Bring a support person if desired during the exam
- Go when hemorrhoids are actively symptomatic to aid diagnosis
- Follow any pre-visit instructions provided by the doctors office
Thoroughly preparing helps the doctor best evaluate your specific hemorrhoid case and recommend appropriate medical, procedural, medication, or at-home treatments to find relief.
When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoid Relief
Hemorrhoids frequently clear up using at-home treatments. But if symptoms persist, are severe, or appear along with complications, promptly consult a doctor. Doctors can accurately diagnose the cause of symptoms and explore all options for effectively shrinking hemorrhoids and managing discomfort.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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