Post-Surgery Recovery: Managing Pain and Complications After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Q: Post-Surgery Recovery: Managing Pain and Complications After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hello： Could you please ask the doctor to prescribe some more stool softeners? Please return for a follow-up visit at the Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare. <br>We care about you.

Post-operative condition of grade 4 mixed hemorrhoids after surgery at Veterans General Hospital (17 years of hemorrhoids)?

Hello, Doctor.
I visited Taichung Veterans General Hospital on March 5th, and after my surgery on March 6th, I was told I could go home.
I underwent general anesthesia and returned to my residence around 3 PM the same day, after a 2 PM surgery.
That evening, around 8 PM, I removed the dressing to have a bowel movement, which was urgent.
I only urinated around 10 PM, and my stool was soft, which seemed normal at that point.
The next morning, around 10 AM, I had another soft bowel movement, possibly due to the lingering effects of the anesthesia, and it wasn't too painful.
However, on the evening of March 8th, at around 10 PM, I experienced a blockage during a bowel movement.
I was standing and squatting, but it was so painful that I eventually had to kneel.
I ended up defecating on the floor.
The stool was much larger and harder than my fist, and at that moment, I thought I had torn my anus.
After multiple sitz baths, I noticed there was no blood, but the intense pain persisted until today, March 12th.
During my next sitz bath, I noticed blood again.
Since that incident, I haven't had any hard stools.
When I returned for a follow-up at the hospital on March 9th, the doctor said my wound was healing normally, and I didn't mention this issue at that time.
He prescribed a stool softener and ointment.
On March 10th, I called their consultation center, and they said that what I experienced was a fecal impaction, which is normal.
However, I couldn't find any similar patient experiences online, so I would like to ask the doctor to help clarify my concerns:
1.
Is my situation normal?
2.
Is it normal for my pain to become severe after passing such a large hard stool, and for every bowel movement since to be this painful?
3.
After I have a bowel movement and clean the area with the ointment, how should I apply the dressing? Should it be placed in the recessed area, or is it unnecessary to use the dressing at all? So far, every time I change the dressing, there is still blood, and it is a light red color.

Mr. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/12

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery

Hello: Could you please ask the doctor to prescribe some more stool softeners? Please return for a follow-up visit at the Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
We care about you.

Reply Date: 2018/03/12

More Info

After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is common to experience a range of symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and changes in bowel habits. Based on your description, it seems you are dealing with several issues post-surgery, including severe pain during bowel movements, the presence of hard stools, and ongoing bleeding. Let's address your concerns one by one.

1. Is this situation normal?
Yes, experiencing pain and discomfort after hemorrhoid surgery can be normal, especially in the initial recovery phase. The surgical site is sensitive, and any strain during bowel movements can exacerbate pain. However, the severity of your pain, particularly the intense discomfort you described when passing hard stools, is concerning. It is crucial to manage your bowel movements to avoid straining, which can lead to further complications.

2. Is it normal for pain to increase after passing a large hard stool?
It is not uncommon for patients to experience increased pain after passing hard stools, especially if they are straining. This can lead to a cycle of pain and fear of bowel movements, which can further complicate recovery. The presence of hard stools can cause trauma to the surgical site, leading to increased pain and potential bleeding. If you are experiencing significant pain that is not alleviated by medications or softeners, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider.

3. How should I manage the dressing post-surgery?
After hemorrhoid surgery, proper wound care is vital for healing. If your doctor has advised you to use gauze, it is typically recommended to place it gently over the surgical site without applying too much pressure. The gauze should not be inserted into the anal canal; rather, it should be placed externally to absorb any discharge or blood. If you notice persistent bleeding or if the dressing becomes soaked, it is advisable to change it and consult your doctor for further guidance.

Additional Recommendations:
- Dietary Adjustments: To prevent hard stools, focus on a high-fiber diet, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is equally important, as it helps soften stools and makes bowel movements easier.

- Stool Softeners: If you haven't already, consider using over-the-counter stool softeners as recommended by your doctor. These can help ease the passage of stools and reduce the risk of straining.

- Warm Sitz Baths: Taking warm sitz baths can help soothe the area, reduce pain, and promote healing. This can be particularly beneficial after bowel movements.

- Pain Management: Ensure you are taking any prescribed pain medications as directed. If your pain is not manageable with over-the-counter options, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

- Follow-Up Care: Since you are experiencing ongoing issues, it is crucial to maintain communication with your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate your condition further, especially if you continue to experience significant pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.

In summary, while some discomfort is expected after hemorrhoid surgery, the severity and persistence of your symptoms warrant further evaluation. Managing your bowel movements, maintaining proper wound care, and staying in touch with your healthcare provider will be key to your recovery. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

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