Hemorrhoids: When to See a Doctor for Treatment

Hemorrhoids: When is it Time to See a Doctor?

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum or anus that can be itchy, painful, and uncomfortable. Often hemorrhoids resolve on their own, but sometimes they require medical treatment. So how do you know when it’s time to see a doctor for hemorrhoids?

This article covers the signs and symptoms that indicate your hemorrhoids warrant a doctor’s visit, diagnostic procedures, and medical and at-home treatment options.

Signs It’s Time to See a Doctor

See your doctor if you experience:

Severe Pain

Mild irritation and discomfort are common with hemorrhoids. But severe pain, especially if persistent, may signal a complication like a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid) or anal fissure.

Bleeding

A small amount of blood on the toilet paper or in the bowl after a bowel movement is normal. But significant, frequent bleeding or large amounts of blood indicate a more serious issue.

Changes in Bowel Habits

Ongoing changes in bowel movement frequency, consistency, or color can signify other conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

Itchiness

Hemorrhoid itching (pruritus ani) is common, but excessively bothersome itching or irritation warrants medical attention to rule out other causes like a skin condition, yeast infection, or STD.

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Seek emergency care if you have:

Severe Rectal Pain

This may indicate a blood clot or anal sphincter muscle spasms requiring prompt treatment.

Large Amounts of Bleeding

Bleeding that soaks through your clothing or dripping into the toilet may signal a ruptured hemorrhoid or other colon issue needing immediate treatment.

Dizziness, Lightheadedness

Significant blood loss from hemorrhoids can lead to anemia and dangerous drops in blood pressure.

Types of Hemorrhoid Doctors

If hemorrhoids require medical intervention, you may be referred to a:

Proctologist

Specializes in conditions affecting the rectum and anus, including hemorrhoids.

Gastroenterologist

Treats diseases of the digestive system. Can diagnose and treat severe hemorrhoids.

Colon and Rectal Surgeon

Performs surgical procedures like hemorrhoidectomy to remove hemorrhoids if other treatments fail.

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids

To diagnose hemorrhoids, the doctor will likely:

Discuss Your Medical History

Looking for risk factors like chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, and family history.

Perform a Physical Exam

Visually inspecting the anus and performing a digital rectal exam to feel for internal hemorrhoids.

Order Additional Tests

Like a colonoscopy to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Medical Hemorrhoid Treatments

If at-home treatments don’t help, the doctor may recommend:

Medications

Ointments, creams, or suppositories containing ingredients like hydrocortisone to relieve swelling and itching.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy injections, infrared coagulation, etc. to shrink internal hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoidectomy

Surgery to remove severe internal or external hemorrhoids.

Other Procedures

For prolapsed hemorrhoids that don’t respond to other treatments.

At-Home Hemorrhoid Treatments

You can try these home remedies for symptom relief:

Warm Sitz Baths

Soak in warm water for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Ice Packs

Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the area to relieve swelling and pain.

Topical Creams

OTC topicals with witch hazel, hydrocortisone, or aloe vera may temporarily soothe irritation.

OTC Pain Relievers

Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, etc. can help temporarily relieve hemorrhoid pain and discomfort.

Avoid Irritants

Steer clear of substances that can aggravate hemorrhoids, like alcohol, spicy food, and harsh soaps or toilet paper.

Sit on a Pillow

Place a pillow under your bottom when sitting to reduce pressure on the hemorrhoids.

Wear Loose, Breathable Clothes

Tight clothes and synthetic materials can chafe and rub against hemorrhoids.

Take a Stool Softener

Over-the-counter stool softeners can make passing stools less painful with hemorrhoids.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Hemorrhoid Flare-Ups

Increase Fiber Intake

Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds to soften stools and prevent constipation.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and fluids to keep stools soft.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps prevent constipation and reduces pressure in the veins.

Avoid Straining

Don’t hold your breath or push excessively when using the bathroom.

Go When Needed

Don’t delay bowel movements, as it leads to harder stools.

Avoid Long Sitting

Take breaks, stretch, and change positions frequently if sitting for long periods.

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids - The Bottom Line

Hemorrhoids often resolve with at-home treatments. But if you have persistent, severe symptoms or excessive bleeding, seeing a doctor is important.

A proctologist, gastroenterologist, or colorectal surgeon can properly diagnose hemorrhoids, rule out other conditions, and provide medical treatments if necessary.

Catching hemorrhoid complications early can help prevent the issue from getting worse. Don’t delay seeking help if symptoms don’t improve with home remedies.

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.