Is It Normal to Experience Prolonged Bleeding After Hemorrhoid Surgery? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

More Info

---

Experiencing prolonged bleeding after hemorrhoid surgery, particularly after a procedure like a hemorrhoidectomy, can be concerning and may not be considered normal. While some bleeding is expected post-surgery, especially in the first few days, persistent bleeding beyond a week warrants further evaluation.


Understanding Post-Surgical Bleeding
1. Normal Post-Operative Bleeding: After hemorrhoid surgery, it's common to experience some bleeding as the surgical site heals. Typically, this bleeding should diminish significantly within the first few days. Light spotting may occur for up to a week, but if the bleeding is heavy or continues unabated, it could indicate a complication.

2. Potential Causes of Prolonged Bleeding:
- Surgical Technique: If the surgical technique did not adequately address all problematic tissue or if there was an issue with ligation of blood vessels, this could lead to ongoing bleeding.

- Infection: An infection at the surgical site can cause inflammation and increased bleeding. Signs of infection may include increased pain, swelling, redness, or discharge.

- Coagulation Issues: If you have a history of bleeding disorders or are on anticoagulant medications, this could contribute to prolonged bleeding. It’s essential to discuss any such conditions with your healthcare provider.

- Overly Aggressive Surgery: If a significant amount of tissue was removed (as you mentioned having 12 hemorrhoids treated), this could lead to more extensive healing and potential complications.

3. Symptoms to Monitor: In addition to the bleeding, you should monitor for other symptoms such as:
- Increased pain or discomfort that does not improve with standard pain management.

- Signs of infection (fever, chills, increased redness or swelling).

- Changes in bowel habits or difficulty passing stool.


Recommendations
Given that you have been experiencing pain and continuous bleeding for eight days, it is crucial to follow up with your surgeon or a healthcare provider. They may recommend:
- Evaluation: A physical examination to assess the surgical site for any signs of complications, such as infection or inadequate healing.

- Blood Tests: To check your coagulation status and rule out any underlying bleeding disorders.

- Imaging: In some cases, imaging studies may be necessary to evaluate for any retained tissue or other complications.


Conclusion
While some bleeding is expected after hemorrhoid surgery, prolonged bleeding beyond a week, especially if accompanied by pain, is not typical and should be addressed promptly. It is essential to communicate your symptoms to your healthcare provider, who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery process.