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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffBecause talking about hemorrhoids can be embarrassing, many people are reluctant to see a doctor about the condition. But it's a good idea to consult a doctor any time you experience rectal bleeding, to make sure you don't have a more serious digestive disease. Start by talking to your regular doctor. If you have other signs and symptoms, such as a change in bowel habits or abdominal pain, your doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. These might include a doctor with expertise in the digestive system (gastroenterologist) or a colon and rectal surgeon, for evaluation and treatment.
You can help your doctor by being prepared with as much information as possible. Here are some suggestions to help you get ready for your appointment.
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance.
- Write down any symptoms you're experiencing and how long you've noticed them.
- Write down key personal information, including typical bowel habits and diet, especially your fiber intake.
- Make a list of all medications, as well as any vitamins or supplements, that you're taking.
- Write down questions to ask your doctor.
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor may ask:
- When did your symptoms first occur?
- What are your typical bowel habits?
- How much fiber does your diet contain?
- Has anyone in your family ever had hemorrhoids or cancer of the colon, rectum or anus?
- Hemorrhoids. American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/hemorrhoids. Accessed Dec. 1, 2008.
- Hemorrhoids. American Gastroenterological Association. http://www.gastro.org/frame-templates/print_template.cfm. Accessed Dec. 1, 2008.
- Hemorrhoids. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hemorrhoids. Accessed Dec. 1, 2008.
- Kaidar-Person O, et al. Hemorrhoidal disease: A comprehensive review. Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 2007;204:102.
- Bleday R. Patient information: Hemorrhoids. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 16, 2008.
- Acheson AG, et al. Management of haemorrhoids. British Medical Journal. 2008;336:380.
- Bleday R, et al. Clinical features of hemorrhoids. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 17, 2008.
- Cataldo P, et al. Practice parameters for the management of hemorrhoids (revised). Diseases of the Colon and Rectum. 2005;48:189.
- Bleday R, et al. Treatment of hemorrhoids. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Nov. 17, 2008.
