As the leading proctologist in Southern California, one of my jobs is to field a number of questions that most patients wouldn’t ask their general practitioner. One of the most common if these – Do I have hemorrhoids? – is typically inspired by a bloody stool, or by painful or itchy sensations.
Unfortunately there’s no completely reliable way to self-diagnose hemorrhoids. Every one of the most common symptoms – itching, pain, and bright red blood – can be attributed to other ailments, so the only way to know for sure is to visit your proctologist for a physical exam.
The good news is that hemorrhoids treatments are often non-invasive, and very often painless. Common treatments may include hemorrhoid banding, also known as rubber band ligation; infrared coagulation; and sclerotherapy. For sub-chronic hemorrhoids that don’t demand immediate intervention, you may get some relief just by applying an ointment or changing your diet.
The Los Angeles and Orange County Proctology Institute is the premier resource for hemorrhoid treatment in LA and beyond. To find a hemorrhoid doctor who can offer you swift and effective relief today, contact us here.
