Hemorrhoids Doctor when to see?

Most of the times, symptoms of hemorrhoids tend to disappear on their own after a few days or weeks. They can also be easily relieved by simple home remedies or over the counter products. But it is still a good idea to consult a doctor if the discomfort is too much to bear or if you find that the hemorrhoids have been around for a very long time. Seeing a doctor is essential if you notice any of the following signs along with the onset of piles:

· if you lost or gained weight suddenly,
· if there is a marked shift in your bowel habits,
· if you see mucus or other discharge in your stool,
· if the colour of your stool changes to maroon, dark brown or black,
· if there is too much bleeding from the site of the hemorrhoids,
· if you are dizzy, feel faint or light headed due to excess bleeding.

Although bleeding from the rectum is a very common sign of hemorrhoids, sometimes the bleeding may be caused by something more serious such as colorectal or anal cancer. Therefore it is always a good idea to consult a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. You should always get a medical opinion if you sense acute discomfort in your anal region. This could mean that there are complications related to your hemorrhoids,

 such as:
· Strangulation - when a pile that sticks out of the body (prolapsed pile) swells considerably and the blood flowing into it cannot return to the body.
· Thrombosis - if the blood in the swollen pile clots, forming a thrombosed pile.
· Gangrene (tissue death) - if there is a lack of blood supply to a pile.
· Infection - where an abscess may form around the rectum and anus causing pain and swelling.

What to expect during an examination?

The examination typically starts with a complete history of your symptoms and for how long you have been suffering from it. This is then followed by a physical check where the doctor will examine inside your anus with a gloved finger.

Since internal hemorrhoids are difficult to detect with a simple examination, sometimes the doctor may look inside your anus with a metal instrument. This is done with the help of an instrument called the proctoscope. This instrument, passed through your anus allows the doctor to look for internal piles as well as rule out other causes of bleeding and pain, such as fissure, fistula, inflammatory bowel, parasites or colorectal cancer. Since this procedure requires some expertise, it is best to consult a general or colorectal surgeon for it.

Sometimes the doctors may also perform another procedure called a barium enema test. In this test, a liquid dye is passed through your anus followed by an X-ray of your lower abdomen. The dye enables the doctor to clearly see the parts of your anus and conduct a detailed examination of the hemorrhoids.