Post-Surgery Recovery Insights for Hemorrhoid Patients

Postoperative recovery status after hemorrhoid surgery?

Hello, doctor.
I underwent traditional surgery for internal and external hemorrhoids on December 4, 2018.
The surgeon described my condition as having one lump each for internal and external hemorrhoids, with a small portion of the external hemorrhoid left intact.
After the surgery, everything seemed normal, although there was still some discharge.
However, on the morning of December 21, I experienced two episodes of passing blood and fainted, requiring emergency treatment.
After receiving an enema to stop the bleeding, I returned home to rest.
During my follow-up appointment three days later, the doctor said everything was normal and did not prescribe any medication.
As of January 20, 2019, I have been experiencing no pain after bowel movements in the morning, but there is light-colored discharge.
However, about 40 minutes later, when I try to tighten my anus, I experience pain, and the discharge turns brown.
Over time, the pain from tightening has decreased, but the situation seems to be in a cycle.
Additionally, I have observed that the external hemorrhoid wound appears to have healed since there is no redness, swelling, or pain.
I would like to ask the doctor if the slow recovery is due to the internal hemorrhoid being a lump.
Is my discharge normal, and when can I expect it to stop? Should I return for a follow-up to check the internal hemorrhoid wound, or is this all part of a normal post-operative condition? Thank you for taking the time to read my description, and I appreciate your help in answering my questions.

Juzi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/20

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

After hemorrhoid surgery, it is common to experience mild bleeding and discharge for up to a month.
Significant bleeding is a rare complication post-surgery and may require a second surgery for hemostasis.
Based on your description, it seems that the wound is healing well.
In about two weeks, the discharge should resolve.
If there is no severe pain or significant bleeding, further examination of the wound is unnecessary.

Reply Date: 2019/01/20

More Info

Post-surgery recovery from hemorrhoid surgery can vary significantly from patient to patient, and it is essential to understand what to expect during the healing process. Based on your description, it seems you underwent a traditional surgical procedure for both internal and external hemorrhoids, which can indeed lead to a range of postoperative symptoms.

Firstly, it is not uncommon to experience some bleeding after hemorrhoid surgery, especially within the first few weeks. The fact that you experienced bleeding on December 21, shortly after your surgery, could be attributed to several factors, including the healing process, the nature of the surgery, and the strain associated with bowel movements. It is crucial to monitor the bleeding; if it becomes heavy or is accompanied by severe pain, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Regarding the discharge you mentioned, it is also typical for patients to experience some form of discharge post-surgery. The presence of light-colored discharge can indicate that the surgical site is still healing. As for the coffee-colored discharge, this may be old blood that is being expelled as the tissue heals. It is essential to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection, which can complicate recovery.

The pain you experience when you contract your anal sphincter (referred to as "縮肛") is also a common symptom after such surgeries. The anal sphincter may be sensitive during the healing process, and as the tissue continues to heal, this discomfort should gradually decrease. It is important to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can exacerbate pain and prolong recovery. You may want to consider a high-fiber diet or stool softeners to ease bowel movements and reduce strain.

As for your question about whether your recovery is slower due to the nature of your internal hemorrhoids, it is possible. Internal hemorrhoids can be more complex than external ones, and the extent of the surgery can influence recovery time. However, each patient's healing process is unique, and factors such as overall health, adherence to postoperative care instructions, and the presence of any complications can all play a role.

In terms of follow-up care, it is advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon or a gastroenterologist to assess the healing of your internal hemorrhoid site. They can provide a thorough examination to ensure that everything is healing as expected and address any concerns you may have. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, or if the pain worsens, you should seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

In summary, while some bleeding and discharge can be normal after hemorrhoid surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and following up with your healthcare provider are critical steps in ensuring a smooth recovery. If you have any concerns about your healing process or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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