Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD regarding hemorrhoids?

Absolutely, you can. A doctor on Laso MD will discuss your medical history and any current symptoms or signs of hemorrhoids you may be experiencing. If the symptoms are persistent or severe, a physical examination may be recommended before confirming a hemorrhoids diagnosis. In some cases, additional tests may be suggested to further assess your digestive system before presenting hemorrhoid treatment options.

 

Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?

Certainly, our physicians on Laso MD have the authority to prescribe medications for hemorrhoids during your online consultation. Upon accepting a prescription for hemorrhoids, you have the choice to pick it up from any pharmacy or have it delivered to your doorstep at no extra cost.

 

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, commonly referred to as “piles,” are clusters of veins that develop beneath the mucous membranes in the lower rectum and anus. They manifest when veins become distended and swollen, similar to the occurrence of varicose veins in the legs.

This condition is highly prevalent, with nearly three out of four adults experiencing hemorrhoids at some point.

There are two primary types of hemorrhoids:

1. External – located under the skin around the anus
2. Internal – situated inside the rectum

 

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids typically cause minimal discomfort and are not visible or palpable. Consequently, signs of internal hemorrhoids are limited. However, irritation or straining during a bowel movement can lead to:

• Pain and irritation (resulting from protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoids pushing through the anal opening)
• Rectal bleeding during bowel movements, often with minimal or no pain

External hemorrhoids exhibit more noticeable and commonly recognized symptoms. These include:

• Bleeding around the anus
• Pain or discomfort, particularly during bowel movements or due to wiping
• Swelling around the anus
• Irritation or itching around the anus

In rare instances, blood may clot and accumulate in external hemorrhoids, causing more severe symptoms such as:

• Inflammation or swelling
• Intense pain or irritation
• A firm lump beneath the skin around the anus

If your hemorrhoid symptoms become severe, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. You may require prescription hemorrhoid medications or a referral to a specialist for further management to alleviate your symptoms.

 

What leads to hemorrhoids?

The likelihood of developing hemorrhoids tends to increase with age, and some attribute this occurrence to the natural effects of blood vessels combating gravity as humans stand upright.

The primary cause of hemorrhoids is the swelling or bulging of veins, which tend to stretch under pressure. Hemorrhoids can emerge due to elevated pressure in the lower rectum, often influenced by various factors, including:

1. Low-fiber diets
2. Dehydration
3. Pregnancy (potentially induced by pressure from the uterus on veins)
4. Chronic diarrhea or constipation
5. Regular heavy lifting
6. Straining during bowel movements
7. Prolonged periods of sitting, especially on the toilet
8. Obesity
9. Anal intercourse

There is also a belief that genetics may contribute to hemorrhoids in certain individuals, particularly if there is a family history of the condition.

 

How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?

Considering the diverse range of factors contributing to hemorrhoids, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your present condition, along with your personal and family medical histories. This is crucial for identifying the necessity of screening for specific types of rectal and colon cancers.

In addition, the doctor will discuss your current symptoms and signs of hemorrhoids before confirming a diagnosis. Depending on the severity of your condition, a visual inspection or digital examination at a medical facility may be recommended.

In less common instances, if the doctor suspects that your hemorrhoids or rectal bleeding may be indicative of another condition, they might propose a colonoscopy. Alternatively, they could recommend a sigmoidoscopy or a barium X-ray for a more detailed examination of your colon.

 

How are hemorrhoids treated?

In the initial stages of experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms, the doctor may recommend trying over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications.

Several home remedies are also effective in soothing hemorrhoid symptoms, including:

1. Applying a cold compress to the affected area
2. Using ointments for symptom relief
3. Taking a warm bath or sitz bath
4. Applying witch hazel to the affected area
5. Opting for loose clothing
6. Incorporating high-fiber foods into your diet
7. Using soothing wipes
8. Taking stool softeners
9. Maintaining hydration

For chronic or severe hemorrhoid symptoms, the doctor may propose treatments involving prescription hemorrhoid medications or additional procedures.

Various procedures may be suggested as hemorrhoid treatments, with their effectiveness contingent on the specific case. Potential hemorrhoid treatment procedures include:

1. Hemorrhoid removal
2. Rubber band ligation
3. Sclerotherapy (injections to shrink the hemorrhoid)
4. Coagulation (using laser, infrared, or bipolar methods)
5. Hemorrhoid stapling

 

When to consult a doctor for hemorrhoids?

If you’ve attempted over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications and home remedies without relief, and your hemorrhoid symptoms persist as severe or chronic, seeking advice from a doctor is advisable.

A doctor can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, providing a definitive hemorrhoid diagnosis. If there’s a suspicion of an underlying condition contributing to your hemorrhoids, the doctor may recommend additional testing for a more precise diagnosis.

For those experiencing chronic or severe hemorrhoid symptoms,  Laso MD can assist in finding effective hemorrhoid treatments tailored to your needs.

 

What is Laso MD?

Laso MD offers you the opportunity to engage in a conversation with a doctor about your symptoms within minutes. We are a healthcare app designed for swift and convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

To connect, you just log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we promptly link you to a doctor through live chat or video. For more information, visit our How it Works page.

Our team of doctors can evaluate symptoms and deliver treatment, including necessary prescriptions.