Haemorrhoids: which doctor should I see?
Haemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus. They can bleed, itch, hurt or come out. The complaint is common and treatable, but bleeding should always be examined. Here you will learn what may be behind them, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.
Book a specialistWhen it is urgent
- Bleeding from the anus does not stop, is heavy or has large clots, or comes with dizziness and weakness.
- Your stools are black like tar.
- Severe pain around the anus, with or without a hard, bluish lump that does not go back in.
- Pain with a fever and swelling around the anus.
With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Call 112What it may mean
- Constipation and straining — they raise the pressure in the veins.
- Long sitting — including on the toilet.
- Pregnancy and childbirth.
- Excess weight and little exercise.
- An anal fissure — a small tear that causes severe pain and a little blood on bowel movements and can be mistaken for haemorrhoids.
Which specialist
How to prepare for the visit
Note how long you have had the complaints, whether there is bleeding and what your bowel movements are like. Bring earlier test results, such as a colonoscopy, and a list of the medicines you take. The examination is short and the doctor will explain each step.
Frequently asked questions
Is bleeding from haemorrhoids dangerous?
Often not, but bleeding from the anus can have other causes. That is why it always needs an examination. Book a visit without delay if the bleeding is painless or pus is leaking from the haemorrhoids.
Is an operation always needed?
No. Changes in diet and treatment without surgery often help. The surgeon will judge.
Surgeon or gastroenterologist?
For pain, lumps or bleeding from haemorrhoids the first specialist is a surgeon (proctologist). For changes in bowel habits or when a colonoscopy is needed, a gastroenterologist.
This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.