While they are quite common, affecting about 50% of the population before the age of 50, hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid treatments are often surrounded by a cloud of misinformation. Remedies like creams and ointments are widely available, but they are not actually effective at treating the source of hemorrhoids. Myths regarding the causes of and cures for hemorrhoids abound. The bottom line is bleeding hemorrhoids are a sure sign it is time to seek treatment, but how do you know if your hemorrhoids are bleeding?
Persistent hemorrhoids are at risk of bleeding due to irritation
Dr. Stone Mitchell, Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center’s treatment specialist, explains hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the rectal area that are often the result of excess pressure in the pelvic or rectal area. Due to their location, persistent hemorrhoids are susceptible to irritation from the friction caused during and after bowel movements. Once your hemorrhoids get irritated, it doesn’t take much for them to start bleeding. Often this will manifest as bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.
You are passing stool that looks maroon or black in color
Depending on the location of your persistent hemorrhoids, it is possible you won’t see any bright red bleeding, but you may notice a change in the color of your stool. A change in stool color can indicate a number of issues, but maroon or black stools are a sure sign you should consult a physician immediately. Stool that is maroon or black in color is indicative of bleeding, which could be a result of persistent hemorrhoids, but could also be a sign of other serious conditions.
Consult a doctor if you experience any type of rectal bleeding
On the scale of hemorrhoids-related issues, rectal bleeding is a serious indication that you may need hemorrhoid treatment, but you should definitely consult with a doctor about diagnosing the source problem. Your hemorrhoids can get irritated regardless of location and irritation leads to bleeding. Untreated hemorrhoids that are allowed to continue bleeding can lead to more severe issues like clotting and hemorrhoidal strangulation. Above all else, if you are experiencing a large amount of rectal bleeding accompanied by dizziness or faintness, seek emergency medical care immediately.
If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, it is important you consider seeing a hemorrhoid treatment specialist to devise the optimal treatment plan for you. There’s no reason to let the problem persist. You want to be confident your treatment plan includes the most up-to-date treatment options, like infrared coagulation, to provide lasting relief from hemorrhoids.
To get started on the path to lasting relief, give Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, the only dedicated hemorrhoid treatment center in Knoxville, a call today at (865) 588-9952 to schedule a consultation.