It is understandable that people usually don’t talk about hemorrhoids openly due to embarrassment. The same problem exists when a person thinks about seeing a doctor. Talking to a doctor about hemorrhoids may seem awkward, but it is important to open up about your problem to find the best solution. Seeing a doctor is usually recommended when piles symptoms appear and don’t go away for more than a week. In most people, hemorrhoids resolve on their own. But if your condition doesn’t improve within a week, you should immediately see a doctor for piles.
Even though hemorrhoids don’t always require surgical treatment, consulting a doctor is essential to prevent the condition from advancing. The doctor will diagnose the disease and determine how serious it is. The treatment method is chosen according to the severity of the hemorrhoids. Read ahead to find out when and who you should see for hemorrhoids.
What are the signs that you need to see a doctor for hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can be misdiagnosed easily if a person tries to self-diagnose the disease. Most people can’t recognize the disease, especially in the earlier stages of internal hemorrhoids when the swollen and inflamed veins are not visible externally. Hence, it is important that you go and see a doctor about your hemorrhoids. Here are four signs that indicate that your hemorrhoids need medical intervention at the earliest.
1. Rectal Bleeding
Bleeding during the bowels is the first sign you will notice if you have hemorrhoids. Both internal and external hemorrhoids bleed even in the early stages. Over time, the bleeding will become more severe and it could lead to mild to moderate anemia. However, rectal bleeding can be a sign of other underlying conditions too. Hence, you should never ignore this sign and get diagnosed right away. Only a professional doctor will be able to diagnose the disease accurately.
2. Bulge from Anus
Hemorrhoids start bulging out from the anus when it reaches the prolapsed stage. If the bulge prolapses during bowel movements and you have to push it back inside, it is time to see a doctor. Prolapsed hemorrhoids will only become worse over time and it increases the risk of strangulation of the hemorrhoidal mass. That’s why early treatment is necessary to prevent the condition from getting worse.
3. Feeling of Fullness
As hemorrhoids become serious, you will start feeling full even after passing stools. Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids cause a sensation that stool is stuck in your anus. You will notice mucous discharge after bowel movements and most probably have a difficult time cleaning the anal region too. These symptoms can only be resolved properly by consulting a specialist.
4. Long-lasting Discomfort & Irritation
Most people try to bear the pain caused by hemorrhoids for a long time and avoid seeking treatment. But you should understand that it is not possible to live with hemorrhoids. The mild pain, discomfort, and irritation will increase if hemorrhoids are left untreated for a long time.
If you are experiencing all these symptoms, do not hesitate and seek medical care from an expert. Even though hemorrhoids are not a major health problem, you should not let the notion deter you from getting diagnosed. If you want relief from the pain caused by hemorrhoids, hurry up and visit a doctor.
Who to consult for hemorrhoid treatment?
Usually, your family doctor or primary care provider can help to manage and control hemorrhoid symptoms. The doctor will suggest home remedies and conservative treatment methods if the symptoms are mild. If advanced treatment is required, the doctor will refer you to a colorectal surgeon (proctologist) or general surgeon. They are the specialists in treating hemorrhoids both surgically and non-surgically.
The doctor will diagnose the disease thoroughly and determine the most appropriate treatment method for you.
What are the treatment options for hemorrhoids?
Knowing when to see your doctor for hemorrhoids is essential as it will determine what treatment options you have. If hemorrhoids haven’t advanced to the chronic stage, they can be treated using either home remedies or non-surgical methods, such as:
- Rubber band ligation, where a rubber band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply. The hemorrhoid tissue shrinks due to the shortage of blood and falls off within a week leaving scar tissue behind.
- Sclerotherapy is another non-surgical technique where a chemical is injected into the hemorrhoids to shrink them.
- Coagulation is also effective for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids where an infrared light or electric current is used to halt the blood flow and shrink the hemorrhoid tissue.
If your condition is chronic, these non-surgical methods won’t be a suitable choice for you as they will require repeated sittings. As a result, it will take weeks to get rid of hemorrhoids completely. So, instead of using these methods, the doctor may suggest that you opt for a surgical procedure to cure hemorrhoids. The surgical methods include:
- Hemorrhoidectomy is done to treat both internal and external hemorrhoids surgically. The surgeon removes the bulging tissues under anesthesia and treats the condition.
- Hemorrhoid stapling involves using a special surgical tool that blocks the blood flow to internal hemorrhoids and returns the swollen and inflamed tissues to their original position.
- Laser surgery is a comparatively new yet effective technique for hemorrhoid treatment. It treats the disease non-invasively and promotes rapid healing that will allow you to return to daily activities quickly.
The Bottom Line
People often feel hesitation while talking about hemorrhoids openly. But feeling shy and embarrassed will make the situation worse only for you. It is crucial that you open up about your condition and
Now that you know when to see your doctor for hemorrhoids, don’t delay the treatment any further. The doctors handle cases like yours on a daily basis and it is their job to help you get the best treatment. There is no reason to delay your treatment or be reluctant to visit a doctor anymore. If you want to get relief from the symptoms, it is time that you take action and book an appointment with a reliable daycare provider to cure hemorrhoids.
