Top Hemorrhoid Specialist in Melville, NY

Hemorrhoids, while quite a common condition, can be uncomfortable and frustrating. In mild cases, hemorrhoids should start improving within a week or so with self-care measures. Effective self-care strategies include changes in your diet, drinking more water, practicing proper toilet habits, and trying over-the-counter treatments.

However, if you find that after about a week your symptoms haven’t gotten any better or have worsened, it’s a good time to reach out to a skilled healthcare practitioner. The gastrointestinal (GI) specialists on our team can diagnose the root of your discomfort, provide guidance, recommend effective treatment options, and run tests to rule out more serious issues.

As everyone’s body is different, the duration of hemorrhoid symptoms significantly varies from person to person. If you find yourself in persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to seek support from the knowledgeable staff at Digestive Disease Care (DDC).

Hemorrhoids and polyps often cause similar symptoms, but they are two distinct conditions. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus, which often cause symptoms such as pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. This condition can also cause a lump or swelling near the anus.

In contrast, polyps are abnormal growths that can occur in the colon or rectum. Polyps usually don’t lead to pain or itching as hemorrhoids do. However, they can cause bleeding, most commonly during bowel movements. Polyps can sometimes be observed by a doctor during a rectal exam; however, a colonoscopy is often needed to confirm the findings.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see a GI doctor for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. The physician will recommend a physical examination, colonoscopy, or other tests to determine the cause of your discomfort. Both hemorrhoids and polyps can be treated effectively when detected early, so you shouldn’t delay seeking medical advice if you have concerns about your gastrointestinal health.

Hemorrhoids don’t always require surgery. In fact, most cases of the condition can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments. Lifestyle changes such as eating a high-fiber diet, hydrating adequately, and avoiding straining during bowel movements are effective strategies for relieving symptoms and preventing hemorrhoids from worsening. In addition, over-the-counter creams and ointments can also provide relief from itching and discomfort.

However, in certain situations, surgery is necessary to treat advanced hemorrhoids. This typically happens when hemorrhoids become very severe due to lack of treatment or because they haven’t responded to more conservative treatments. A common surgical solution for hemorrhoids is known as rubber band ligation, where a band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off. Alternatively, a hemorrhoidectomy can also be performed to remove the hemorrhoids.

A GI specialist can accurately evaluate the severity of your condition and recommend the most appropriate approach, whether it’s non-surgical or surgical. Typically, surgery is only recommended when other methods haven’t provided sufficient relief.

In most cases, you don’t need a colonoscopy to receive a hemorrhoid diagnosis, as the doctor can observe the condition through less invasive approaches. However, if you have certain symptoms that could be related to other digestive issues, the doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to rule out more serious underlying conditions. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or a family history of colon cancer often warrant a colonoscopy.

In cases of regular, uncomplicated hemorrhoids, the physician can make a diagnosis through a physical examination and medical history. Typically, these cases are treated with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter treatments, or prescription medications to manage symptoms. If you’re concerned about your symptoms or have any questions, it’s urged to discuss them with a GI specialist. Our doctors are highly skilled in this field and can guide you on the best course of action based on your specific circumstances. We have convenient locations to serve you in Melville NY, Lake Success NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Jamaica NY, New Hyde Park NY, Mineola NY, Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Massapequa NY, and BEYOND.