Post-Surgery Concerns: Blood in Stool and IV Site Pain After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Q: Post-Surgery Concerns: Blood in Stool and IV Site Pain After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hello： There shouldn't be any major issues. <br>Please return for a follow-up appointment when you have time.

Traditional surgery for internal and external hemorrhoids (postoperative condition)

Hello Doctor,
1.
I had surgery on April 6 for the removal of internal and external moles.
Today, May 19, I noticed blood in the toilet during bowel movements (there was also a little bit last night).
After the surgery, I had almost no blood during bowel movements in early May, so this sudden occurrence of blood is concerning.
I also recall experiencing some anal spasms in the past few days.
Is this normal? (I have been having daily bowel movements since the surgery.) Could it be that frequent bowel movements have caused an anal fissure? Or could it be related to riding a motorcycle too soon after surgery? (I started riding about a month post-op, and I was still experiencing discomfort at that time.)
2.
Additionally, I would like to ask about the IV drip I received during my hospital stay.
After the nurse inserted the needle, I felt more pain than usual at the IV site, and I mentioned it to the nurse, who said it was normal.
After discharge, the bruising on my hand disappeared, but I still feel some pain.
Upon touching my left hand, I noticed a small section of the vein near the injection site that feels hard and slightly swollen (I have been applying warm compresses for the past two weeks).
How long should I wait for this condition to improve before seeking medical attention, and which department should I visit? (During my follow-up appointment, I informed the doctor, who advised me to continue with warm compresses.) Currently, there has been no improvement, and the hard vein has not resolved.
Thank you, Doctor, for your patience in reading and responding.
I appreciate your help.

Sammy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/19

Dr. Yu Mingchang reply Surgery

Hello: There shouldn't be any major issues.
Please return for a follow-up appointment when you have time.

Reply Date: 2021/05/19

More Info

After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is not uncommon to experience some post-operative symptoms, including blood in the stool and discomfort at the IV site. Let's address your concerns in detail.

1. Blood in Stool: Noticing blood in your stool, especially after a period of no bleeding, can be concerning. In the context of recent hemorrhoid surgery, there are a few potential explanations for this symptom:
- Hemorrhoid Recurrence: Sometimes, the surgical site may not heal completely, or new hemorrhoids can develop, leading to bleeding during bowel movements.

- Anal Fissures: If you've been experiencing pain in the anal area, it could indicate the presence of an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This can occur due to straining during bowel movements, especially if the stool is hard or if you are having frequent bowel movements.

- Surgical Site Healing: It is also possible that the surgical site is still healing, and minor bleeding can occur as part of the healing process. However, this should not be a persistent issue.

Given that you have seen blood during bowel movements after a period of no bleeding, it is advisable to consult your surgeon or a gastroenterologist. They can perform an examination to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment. In the meantime, ensure you are maintaining a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated to prevent constipation, which can exacerbate these issues.

2. IV Site Pain and Hardness: The discomfort and hardness around the IV site can be attributed to several factors:
- Phlebitis: This is inflammation of the vein, which can occur after an IV insertion. It may cause pain, swelling, and tenderness at the site.

- Hematoma: If blood has accumulated outside the blood vessel, it can create a hard lump and cause discomfort.

- Infection: Though less common, an infection at the IV site can lead to pain, redness, and swelling.

Since you have been experiencing persistent pain and hardness at the IV site for two weeks, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend an ultrasound to assess the area and rule out any complications. If the area is warm, red, or increasingly painful, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as these could be signs of an infection.

In summary, while some post-operative symptoms can be normal, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution and consult your healthcare provider to ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Make sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly during your follow-up appointment, as this will help your doctor provide the best care possible.

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