Post-Surgery Discomfort: Symptoms After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Post-operative discomfort or occasional discomfort during bowel movements after hemorrhoid surgery?

I underwent an excision of internal and external hemorrhoids on January 13 of this year.
It has now been exactly six months post-surgery, and my recovery has been deemed good by my attending physician.
However, I am unsure if the surgical site has fully healed or if the newly formed skin is still delicate, as I occasionally experience some bleeding and a stinging sensation during bowel movements, especially when they are frequent.
There are also times when I suddenly notice redness and swelling at the surgical site, which is quite uncomfortable and accompanied by a stinging pain.
I would like to ask Dr.
Ke if these symptoms are normal six months after the surgery.

Yo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/11

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

After hemorrhoid surgery, the wound should have completely healed within six months, and there should not be any of the symptoms you described.
It appears more similar to the typical symptoms of an anal fissure, which include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, and warm sitz baths can also be beneficial.
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositories can be purchased at the pharmacy for relief.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2018/07/11

More Info

After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience a range of symptoms as they recover. Your concerns about discomfort, bleeding, and pain at the surgical site are valid and warrant further discussion.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery can vary significantly from person to person. While your surgeon has indicated that your recovery is going well, it is essential to monitor any ongoing symptoms closely. The fact that you are experiencing some bleeding and pain, particularly during bowel movements, can be attributed to several factors.

1. Healing Process: After surgery, the tissue around the surgical site is sensitive and may take time to heal completely. The new skin that forms can be more delicate, leading to discomfort during bowel movements, especially if they are frequent or hard. This can cause irritation and even minor bleeding, which is not uncommon.

2. Bowel Movements: Frequent bowel movements can exacerbate discomfort. It is crucial to maintain a diet high in fiber and to stay well-hydrated to ensure that your stools remain soft. This can help minimize straining during bowel movements, which is a significant contributor to pain and bleeding post-surgery.

3. Signs of Infection or Complications: The redness and swelling you mentioned around the surgical site could indicate an infection or other complications. If the area appears increasingly red, swollen, or if you develop a fever, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms could suggest that the healing process is not proceeding as expected.

4. Pain Management: If you are experiencing significant pain, over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be helpful. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have other underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or healthcare provider are crucial. They can assess the healing process and determine if your symptoms are within the normal range or if further intervention is needed. If you have not had a follow-up appointment recently, it may be beneficial to schedule one to discuss your ongoing symptoms.

6. Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporating lifestyle changes can also aid in your recovery. Engaging in gentle physical activity can promote bowel regularity and improve circulation to the surgical site, which can enhance healing. Additionally, avoiding prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces, can help reduce pressure on the area.

In conclusion, while some discomfort and minor bleeding can be expected after hemorrhoid surgery, it is essential to remain vigilant about your symptoms. If you notice any significant changes, such as increased pain, persistent bleeding, or signs of infection, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to ensure your recovery continues smoothly. Remember, open communication with your healthcare team is key to addressing any concerns you may have during your recovery process.

Similar Q&A

Post-Surgery Anal Itching: Managing Discomfort After Hemorrhoid Surgery

After hemorrhoid surgery, there may be itching, swelling, and pain during bowel movements, and passing gas can also cause discomfort.

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is normal to experience discomfort during the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery. It is recommended to use pain relief medications and to take warm sitz baths. If symptoms persist without improvement or if there is redness, swelling, heat, or pain, you should consult you...

Post-Surgery Symptoms After Hemorrhoidectomy: What to Expect

Hello Doctor, I had surgery on July 13, and it has been four days since then. My surgery was for a hemorrhoidectomy for mixed hemorrhoids. Since the second day after I was allowed to use the restroom, I have been feeling the urge to go to the bathroom every day, nearly 7 to 8 tim...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
The surgical wound from hemorrhoid surgery typically takes about two to three weeks to heal, during which symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and changes in bowel habits will show significant improvement.

How Common Are Complications After Hemorrhoid Surgery?

It is often seen on websites that patients experience some complications after hemorrhoid surgery, such as persistent pain, anal tightness, or fecal incontinence after a period of time. Even when treated by a qualified colorectal surgeon, what is the likelihood of these issues oc...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Hello: In response to your question, the pain after hemorrhoid surgery typically lasts about one to two weeks, with the most intense pain occurring during the first three days. Therefore, hospitalization is recommended during this period. After that, there may still be some disco...

Post-Surgery Urgency: Managing Discomfort After Hemorrhoid Surgery

About six hours post-surgery, I had my first bowel movement, which involved slight bleeding, and the stool was loose. After about five minutes, I experienced the urge to defecate again, which persisted for over four hours. I received a muscle relaxant, but the urge remained stron...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is normal to experience discomfort after surgery. If you are currently hospitalized, please communicate your symptoms to the healthcare staff in the hospital and have the surgeon or on-call physician address your concerns, rather than seeking advice from unfamiliar doctors onl...