Should I see a gastroenterologist or proctologist for hemorrhoids?

What is the best doctor to see for hemorrhoids?

In most cases, you can see a general practitioner or your family physician about your hemorrhoid symptoms. If complications arise, you may be referred to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or a proctologist.

Do gastroenterologists handle hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids may often get better on their own within a few days, but some may need medications and even surgery to go away. Both gastroenterologists and proctologists can provide you treatment for hemorrhoids.

When should I see a proctologist and gastroenterologist?

Proctologists often are seen for complex lower digestive tract issues or when surgery is needed to treat the patient. Proctologists are different than gastroenterologists, though both deal with gastrointestinal issues in patients. Gastroenterologists perform diagnostic procedures.

Can I see my gynecologist for hemorrhoids?

If you have questions or develop hemorrhoids that don’t seem to go away, talk to your OB/GYN. It may seem embarrassing, but that’s part of our job. You are not the only patient to discuss this kind of problem, and you won’t be the last.

What is considered a large hemorrhoid?

Hemorrhoids can be classified according to how severe they are: Grade 1: Slightly enlarged hemorrhoids that can’t be seen from outside the anus. Grade 2: Larger hemorrhoids that sometimes come out of the anus, for example while passing stool or – less commonly – during other physical activities.

Can a gastroenterologist remove external hemorrhoids?

Your gastroenterologist may be able to treat them during an outpatient visit to the office or to the hospital. A number of methods can be used to remove or reduce the number of hemorrhoids: Surgical treatment: Cutting out the hemorrhoids (hemorrhoidectomy) is sometimes recommended, but carries a painful recovery.

Should I see a GI doctor for hemorrhoids?

In most cases, your family doctor or primary care physician can help you manage hemorrhoids. However, if the hemorrhoids are severe, you may need to see a hemorrhoid doctor, such as a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist.

What can a GI doctor do for hemorrhoids?

Overall, the majority of patients presenting with symptomatic hemorrhoids improve with a bowel management program alone. Gastroenterologists can offer a successful alternative to invasive surgical excision. These procedures are all performed above the dentate line, and therefore do not require anesthesia.

Does a proctologist remove hemorrhoids?

A general surgeon, a colon and rectal surgeon, or proctologist will perform your hemorrhoid removal surgery in a hospital or outpatient surgery center. You will have a nerve block or general anesthesia. Most people go home the day of surgery but you may have to stay in the hospital for one night.

What’s the difference between a proctologist and a gastrointestinal doctor?

Proctologists work closely with gastrointestinal (GI) specialists, also known as Gastroenterologist, who provide complete care for disorders that affect the digestive system. A gastroenterologist is trained to do colonoscopies but they do not perform surgeries, while all proctologists are surgical specialists.


Is a proctologist the same as a urologist?

Both urology and proctology are sought-after for the variety and work-life balance they offer. Both urology and proctology are surgical specialties that deal with the organs and processes involved in eliminating human waste.