For quite some time, I wasn't sure what I was going to do about my failing health. I knew that I had a few longterm health problems, but resolving the issues felt really difficult. Fortunately, a friend of mine mentioned going to the doctor, so I began looking for medical alternatives. I began working with one doctor who suggested a course of medications and a few lifestyle changes, and I was really enthusiastic about the progress I was making. I know that making health and medical changes helped the quality of my life, and I know it could help you too. Check out this blog for more information.
How To Know If It's Time To See A Gastroenterologist For Your Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids do not always warrant a trip to the gastroenterologist, but they can sometimes. Therefore, you will want to make sure that you are well aware of when you should go see a doctor. To help you with this, you will want to spend a little time reading through the following signs.
Your Stools Are a Maroon Color
If you notice that the color of your stools is maroon or possibly even a tar-like color, then you are going to want to make an appointment with a specialist. If you are experiencing a lot of straight blood coming from your rectum, you will make to take a trip to the emergency department of your local hospital. This is because you could have something else going on beyond just the hemorrhoid itself.
You Are in a Lot of Pain
It is normal to experience some discomfort or pain when you have hemorrhoids. However, the hemorrhoids that can be effectively treated at home should not come with pain or discomfort that would be described as unbearable. Should you find that the pain and discomfort that you are experiencing is too much for you, you will want to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
The Over the Counter Creams Aren't Helping
One of the first courses of treatment that is usually suggested to those with hemorrhoids is one of the many over the counter creams. It might take several days for the creams to do the job, so you will want to give it some time to work. However, if you have found that the over the counter hemorrhoid creams are not solving the problem, or even giving you any relief, then you will need something more intense. It is then time to call for an appointment with a gastroenterologist. Be sure to make a list of the various types of treatments that you have tried. This will help the specialist determine which treatment will be best for you.
If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned problems or anything else that is alarming to you, you will want to go ahead and make an appointment with a gastroenterologist. He or she will be able to examine you and determine what the best course of action would be. You might be given a prescription medication. In more severe cases, your specialist may determine that surgery is needed in order to resolve the problem for you.