Talking to a Doctor about Hemorrhoids
If you in Los Angeles and are struggling with hemorrhoids, you are not alone. Hemorrhoids are veins in the lining of the anus that can become twisted and painful, causing severe itching, discomfort and a variety of other symptoms. An estimated two-thirds of people will develop at least one hemorrhoid at some point in life, but it is not something that you hear talked about frequently. This makes it difficult for many people to determine when they should seek treatment for their hemorrhoids, and who they should turn to for advice on the subject.
Your colorectal specialist is the person to talk to about hemorrhoids in Los Angeles. Hemorrhoids are painful and frustrating, and they don’t always go away on their own. In many situations, hemorrhoid treatment is the only way to overcome the lingering pain of this anorectal condition. If left untreated, hemorrhoids can continue to bleed and lead to serious complications like anemia. The symptoms associated with hemorrhoids are often also associated with other anorectal conditions, which means that your lingering hemorrhoids could be an indication of a greater problem.
It’s imperative to see a doctor about your hemorrhoids when you notice signs like:
- Black and tarry stool
- Severe pain and swelling around the anus
- Protruding tissue from the anus
- Growing lump inside of the anus
- Pain that lasts longer than one week
- Excessive bleeding
Hemorrhoids are small and tender to the touch. If you find a lump that continues to grow or is not immediately sensitive to pressure, then it may not be a hemorrhoid. A visit to your colorectal surgeon’s office can determine if you are experiencing hemorrhoids or if there is another factor causing a growth in the anal region.
Only your colorectal specialist can ensure that you are experiencing hemorrhoids and that your pain isn’t due to another condition. Hemorrhoids can develop for a variety of reasons, and sometimes as a result of another colorectal condition that is currently going untreated. If you are experiencing regular constipation, diarrhea or abdominal pain from unknown causes, your colorectal specialist can find the root of the problem and help you prevent the development of hemorrhoids in the future.