When to Seek Professional Hemorrhoid Treatment

Are you concerned that you might have hemorrhoids? If so, you’re not alone. According to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS), hemorrhoids are one of the most common ailments, affecting millions of Americans. It can be difficult to know when to see a doctor for hemorrhoids, but we’ve got the answers you need below.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Before discussing when to seek professional hemorrhoid treatment, it may be helpful to explain what hemorrhoids are, what causes them, and what symptoms they produce. Commonly referred to as “piles,” hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop either inside the lower rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).

Hemorrhoids often occur when too much pressure is exerted on the veins surrounding the anus. For example, you may develop hemorrhoids if you:

• Sit for extended periods of time (especially on the toilet)
• Strain during bowel movements
• Experience chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Eat a diet low in fiber
• Regularly lift heavy objects
• Engage in anal intercourse
• Are obese or pregnant

Hemorrhoid symptoms can vary depending on where the swollen veins are located and how severe they are. With that said, hemorrhoids often cause pain, irritation, itchiness, swelling, and bleeding.

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids

In many cases, hemorrhoids will resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention. To help relieve your symptoms at home, you may want to try taking pain medication, using a topical cream or suppository, soaking in a warm bath, consuming more fiber, and staying hydrated (you should also avoid sitting for long periods of time and straining when using the toilet). However, in some instances, professional hemorrhoid treatment is necessary.

When to Seek Primary Care or Urgent Care for Hemorrhoids

If you suspect that you have hemorrhoids and your symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a week of at-home care, you should consult with either a primary care or urgent care provider. It’s important to not delay seeking treatment because hemorrhoids can sometimes lead to complications such as anemia, blood clots, and infection. You should also reach out to a medical provider if you’re experiencing bleeding during bowel movements—and especially if your bowel habits or stools have noticeably changed—since rectal bleeding can also result from more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.

If you determine that you need professional hemorrhoid treatment, you may want to begin by contacting your primary care provider (PCP), since they’ll have extensive knowledge about your medical history and any medications you’re currently using. But if you can’t secure an appointment with your PCP or you require treatment outside their normal business hours, urgent care is an excellent alternative. Urgent care providers can administer many of the same hemorrhoid treatments as PCPs, but they typically offer more flexible hours as well as walk-in availability. Depending on your condition, your PCP or urgent care provider may refer you to a specialist for further treatment.

When to Visit the ER for Hemorrhoids

In rare cases, hemorrhoids can require emergency treatment. You should call 911 or get to a nearby hospital if you’re experiencing large amounts of rectal bleeding or you feel dizzy, lightheaded, faint, or weak.

Offering Urgent Care for Hemorrhoids in CT, MA & NY

If you need non-emergent hemorrhoid treatment in Connecticut, Massachusetts, or New York, turn to PhysicianOne Urgent Care. Our physician-founded practice has been serving the region since 2008, and all our providers are trained in either emergency, family, or internal medicine. What’s more, we’re in-network with most major health insurance plans and offer affordable self-pay rates.

‍Click here to find out whether PhysicianOne Urgent Care has a location near you. If we do, you can walk in or book a visit online—we’re open 365 days per year with extended hours. Or, take advantage of our 24/7 integrated telehealth service, which enables you to speak to a local provider from the comfort of your own home.