Hemorrhoids

When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor whenever you have bleeding from your rectum. Even if you have been treated for bleeding hemorrhoids in the past, it is always safer for your doctor to determine the best course of action. This is especially true if you are over age 40, when there is an increase in the risk of rectal bleeding from colorectal cancer and other serious digestive diseases.

Also, call your doctor if you have severe pain or itching from hemorrhoids, especially if this interferes with your ability to perform your job comfortably.

Prognosis

If hemorrhoids are related to pregnancy, the prognosis is very good, since most women experience relief after childbirth. For hemorrhoids related to constipation, the prognosis is also good, provided you make the necessary changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Additional Info

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders Office of Communications and Public Liaison Building 31, Room 9A04 Center Drive, MSC 2560 Bethesda, MD 20892-2560 Phone: (301) 496-3583 Fax: (301) 496-7422 http://www.niddk.nih.gov/

American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 4900 B South, 31st St. Arlington, VA 22206 Phone: (703) 820-7400 Fax: (703) 931-4520 http://www.acg.gi.org/

American Gastroenterological Association 7910 Woodmont Ave. Seventh Floor Bethesda, MD 20814 Phone: (301) 654-2055 Fax: (301) 652-3890 http://www.gastro.org/