It is one of the most common questions a Proctologist is asked: Should you visit a doctor if your hemorrhoids don’t go away on their own? You’ll find different advice in different places, but there is a simple rubric for answering this one on your own:

You should see your healthcare provider if you have severe pain or discomfort, if home remedies have not helped, if you experience rectal bleeding or if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or if you have any questions or concerns.

Bottom line, this is an issue which is treatable. When the pain becomes too intense or the bleeding becomes too great, it’s time to visit your LA proctologist and get a full evaluation.

Typically, internal hemorrhoids present with painless rectal bleeding if they are not prolapsed. Conversely, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, especially Grade IV Internal Hemorrhoids, may be very painful and should be treated urgently to prevent strangulation or necrosis. The sooner you hemorrhoids are diagnosed, evaluated and treated, the better your quality of life will be on a daily basis.

Similarly, external hemorrhoids can also present with and without pain. Thrombosed external hemorrhoids are very painful and debilitating. Prior to making a determination about treatment options, it is best to see an expert Proctologist for an accurate diagnosis.

Although hemorrhoids are common, you should see a Proctologist to make certain that a more serious abnormality is not present. Experts that specialize in Proctology are well equipped to diagnose and evaluate your condition for the best outcome.

At the Proctology Institute, we offer a broad range of permanent surgical and nonsurgical options for internal and external hemorrhoids. Every procedure we perform is designed with an eye toward minimally invasive techniques and your rapid recovery.

If you have pain in your buttocks (“butt pain”) or persistent bleeding due to hemorrhoids, do not hesitate to contact the proctology experts here.