If you suffer from hemorrhoids, the good news is that lower grade hemorrhoids can resolve on their own with at-home treatments. But what if they get to the point where you need to see a doctor to treat them? How do you choose where to go and what doctor is right for you?
Here’s what you should know about finding the right doctor for you:
Ask For Referrals
To start, ask for referrals to specialists! This is an important step in choosing a doctor, as your primary care physician may not be able to treat hemorrhoids on their own. Doctors will often refer to specialists on their own, but if they don’t make sure you mention it.
In order for insurance to cover the cost of the examination and procedure at a specialist, a referral is needed.
The Right Doctor For The Right Procedure
It’s also important that you search your insurance’s website for doctors that are within your network. This will help prevent out-of-network charges and other out-of-pocket fees. When you have a list of doctors, it’s a good idea to meet with them to determine if they are right for you and your needs.
It’s a good idea to ask friends and family if they have had experience with these doctors to get an idea of their experience as well as research the doctor’s license and any potential complaints against them.
Depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids, the doctor you pick depends on their specialty:
Gastroenterologist
A gastroenterologist can diagnose hemorrhoids and provide non-surgical treatments like hemorrhoid banding. If your hemorrhoid is severe enough to warrant surgery, they will refer you to a doctor that can, like a colorectal surgeon or a general surgeon.
Like a gastroenterologist, a colorectal specialist will be able to diagnose you with hemorrhoid and provide treatment options. The only difference is that a colorectal specialist is able to provide surgical treatments if deemed necessary.
General Surgeon & Colorectal Specialist
A general surgeon and a colorectal specialist (or surgeon) can perform surgeries on hemorrhoids if they are severe enough in the form of a hemorrhoidectomy. Hemorrhoids may require surgery when they don’t respond to non-surgical treatments or if it prolapses.
These doctors can perform hemorrhoid surgery and send you home that day after a brief observation and discussing aftercare to you and a trusted family member.
The Right Doctor Will Listen & Answer Your Questions
A doctor should listen to your questions and concerns and answer them in a way you understand. They will also help you understand your treatment options and feel comfortable discussing the problem.
After treatment, your doctor should thoroughly go over aftercare and how you can treat yourself at home to lessen symptoms and heal.
They Use The Right Equipment
Hemorrhoid treatment should not be painful, even if it is a non-surgical treatment like banding. That’s why you should ask your doctor what equipment they use like the Nexus System, which is a fast, safe, and non-disruptive treatment option for low-grade hemorrhoids.
