Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care Tips

Hemorrhoid issues

Hello, doctor.
Today I visited the colorectal surgery department due to blood in my stool.
The doctor performed a digital examination and mentioned that I have mild hemorrhoids and a small wound nearby (the cause is unknown, but it could be due to friction from bowel movements).
The doctor prescribed an ointment for me to apply.
After returning home, I noticed that my anus felt moist, and when I wiped with toilet paper, there was blood, along with a stinging pain in the anal area.
I would like to ask the doctor a few questions:
1.
The doctor mentioned a small scabbed wound next to the hemorrhoids that is red.
How should I manage this (will it change, and does it need to be tested)?
2.
Is it normal to have blood and stinging pain after wiping following a digital examination (previous doctors did not cause bleeding during examinations)?
3.
When applying the hemorrhoid ointment, do I need to insert my finger into the anus? Is there a risk of causing injury, and should the ointment not be used for an extended period?

W, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
It is likely an anal fissure; a warm water sitz bath followed by applying ointment should suffice.
Anal cancer can also present similarly, but it is unlikely at your age.
2.
Normal.
3.
It is possible, so I personally recommend using a finger to apply the ointment inside the anus.
If symptoms improve, there is no need to continue applying the ointment.

Reply Date: 2019/10/25

More Info

Understanding hemorrhoids and their associated symptoms can be quite distressing, especially when accompanied by bleeding and pain. Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, can lead to discomfort, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. In your case, the presence of a small wound near the hemorrhoid, as well as the symptoms you are experiencing, raises several important considerations.

1. Management of the Small Wound: The small, red, scabbed area near your hemorrhoid could be a result of irritation or friction, as your doctor suggested. It is essential to keep the area clean and dry to promote healing. You can gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water, and pat it dry. If the wound does not improve or worsens, or if you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. While it may not be necessary to perform a biopsy immediately, monitoring the wound for changes is crucial. If the wound persists or shows signs of infection, further evaluation may be warranted.

2. Bleeding and Pain After Examination: Experiencing bleeding and pain after a digital rectal examination can occur, especially if there are existing hemorrhoids or anal fissures. The rectal area is sensitive, and any manipulation can lead to minor trauma, resulting in bleeding. However, if the bleeding is significant or continues, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider. The absence of bleeding after previous examinations does not necessarily indicate a problem; each examination can vary based on the condition of the tissues and the presence of hemorrhoids or other issues.

3. Application of Hemorrhoid Ointment: When applying ointment for hemorrhoids, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or the product label. Using your finger to apply the ointment internally can be effective, but you should be cautious to avoid causing further irritation or injury. Ensure your hands are clean before application, and consider using a small amount of ointment to minimize the risk of scraping the delicate tissues. If you experience pain during application, it may be best to apply the ointment externally only or consult your doctor for alternative methods.
Regarding the duration of use, many topical treatments for hemorrhoids are designed for short-term relief. Prolonged use can lead to skin irritation or other complications. If your symptoms persist despite treatment, or if you find yourself needing to use the ointment for an extended period, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management options.

In summary, while hemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort and concern, proper care and monitoring can help manage symptoms effectively. Keeping the area clean, using prescribed medications as directed, and following up with your healthcare provider for any concerning changes are key steps in your recovery. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with Suspected Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Next Steps

Hello. I have noticed a protrusion near my anus that appears to be a hemorrhoid, and it has been bleeding frequently for the past three days. I have been using tissue to cover it, otherwise, the blood stains my underwear. What should I do?

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on your description, it is most likely hemorrhoids; however, other benign tumors and anal inflammation could also present similar symptoms. It is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid staying up late, and refrain from consuming irritating foods. After ...

Identifying and Managing Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. I'm not quite sure when it started, but after wiping following a bowel movement, I noticed fresh blood on the toilet paper. After researching online, it seems to be hemorrhoids. However, every time I shower, I feel a small soft lump around the anus, which does...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely internal hemorrhoid bleeding. You can use ointment, wash and dry the area after bowel movements, avoid prolonged sitting, engage in regular exercise, and prevent hard stools.

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, about a year ago I noticed a lump at the anal opening. At that time, I was experiencing severe constipation and it would bleed. Over the past year, I have slightly improved my constipation habits, and I haven't had any bleeding since. However, sometimes when I ...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
If internal hemorrhoids prolapse and require manual reduction, it is classified as grade III hemorrhoids. Conditions such as constipation, diarrhea, staying up late, and consuming spicy foods or alcohol can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms, making bleeding, swelling, and pain more ...

Do You Need Medical Treatment for Hemorrhoids? Expert Insights

Dear Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids for many years, specifically slight bleeding from the anus after bowel movements, similar to a skin abrasion, but it is not very painful, and my bowel movements are smooth. Do I need to seek medical treatment, or can...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I recommend that you consume more fiber-rich foods and drink plenty of water to establish a regular bowel habit. You may also consider using warm sitz baths or a bidet. If you continue to experience bleeding or pain, it is best to visit a hospital for an examination by a c...