When to Consider Medical Treatment for Hemorrhoids (And When to Ride I – Norms

We’re Not Doctors, But Here’s When You Might Want to See One for Hemorrhoids

Let’s get one thing straight—we’re not doctors, and this isn’t medical advice. We’re just big fans of helping people feel normal again and avoiding unnecessary suffering. If you’ve been battling hemorrhoids for longer than feels reasonable, it might be time to tag in a medical professional.

Most hemorrhoids can be handled at home with OTC treatments, hygiene tweaks, and lifestyle adjustments. But sometimes, no amount of fiber or sitz baths will do the trick. That’s when a doctor can step in with advanced hemorrhoid treatments that provide longer-term relief.

Oh, and one more thing—just because we’re listing medical treatments here doesn’t mean you should self-diagnose or delay seeing a doctor. Rectal bleeding, severe pain, or persistent symptoms should always be checked out by a professional to rule out anything more serious. Cool? Cool.

When Should You Seek Medical Treatment for Hemorrhoids?

If you’re still suffering despite your best efforts, it’s worth checking in with a doctor—especially if you’re dealing with:

1. Severe, Persistent Hemorrhoid Pain That Won’t Go Away

✔ If pain is intense and lasts more than a few days despite home treatment, it could indicate a thrombosed hemorrhoid (one with a blood clot) or another complication.

"I thought I could tough it out, but after a week of sharp pain, my doctor told me I had a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Getting it treated was the best decision I made." — Jake, 47

2. Heavy or Chronic Rectal Bleeding From Hemorrhoids

✔ If you notice frequent rectal bleeding, especially dark or heavy bleeding, see a doctor to rule out other conditions like fissures, polyps, or even colorectal issues.

"I ignored the bleeding for months, thinking it was just hemorrhoids. Turns out, I needed a colonoscopy. Glad I caught it early." — Lisa, 38

3. Large External Hemorrhoids That Won’t Shrink

✔ If external hemorrhoids are too large to be managed with creams or wipes and are causing ongoing discomfort, they may need medical removal.

"I tried everything—wipes, creams, sitz baths—but the hemorrhoid just wouldn’t shrink. My doctor suggested a simple procedure, and I haven’t had issues since." — Mark, 50

4. Frequent or Recurring Hemorrhoids Despite Lifestyle Changes

✔ If you’re doing everything right (fiber, hydration, OTC treatments) but still experiencing regular flare-ups, a more permanent hemorrhoid treatment may be needed.

"I followed every prevention tip out there, but my hemorrhoids kept coming back. My doctor recommended a minimally invasive treatment, and it made all the difference." — Greg, 55

Medical Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids: What to Expect

If your doctor determines that medical intervention is necessary, here are some treatment options for hemorrhoids they might suggest:

1. Rubber Band Ligation for Internal Hemorrhoids

✔ What it is: A doctor places a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a few days.
✔ Best for: Internal hemorrhoids that won’t go away on their own.
✔ Downtime: Minimal—done in-office with a high success rate.

📊 Stat: Rubber band ligation has a 75-80% success rate. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)

"I was nervous, but the procedure was quick and relatively painless. Within a week, I felt way better." — Jake, 47

2. Sclerotherapy for Shrinking Internal Hemorrhoids

✔ What it is: A chemical injection that causes scar tissue to form, shrinking the hemorrhoid.
✔ Best for: Small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids.
✔ Downtime: None—but may require repeat treatments.

📊 Stat: Success rates for sclerotherapy range from 70-90%, but repeat treatments may be needed. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

"The injections were weird but not painful. My doctor said I might need a couple of rounds, but so far, I’m seeing a big improvement." — Lisa, 38

3. Infrared Coagulation (IRC) for Bleeding Hemorrhoids

✔ What it is: A minimally invasive laser treatment that uses heat to cut off blood flow, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink.
✔ Best for: Internal hemorrhoids that bleed frequently.
✔ Downtime: Minimal—most patients return to normal activities the same day.

📊 Stat: 67-85% of patients see significant symptom relief after IRC. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

"The laser treatment was fast, and I didn’t have to take time off work. I wish I had done it sooner." — Mark, 50

4. Hemorrhoidectomy (Surgical Removal for Severe Hemorrhoids)

✔ What it is: A surgical procedure that removes large, severe, or recurrent hemorrhoids.
✔ Best for: Extreme cases where other treatments have failed.
✔ Downtime: Two weeks of recovery—but offers the highest long-term success rate.

📊 Stat: Hemorrhoidectomy has a 95%+ long-term success rate. (Source: American College of Surgeons)

"The recovery wasn’t fun, but once I healed, I finally stopped dealing with flare-ups every few months." — Greg, 55

Even After Medical Hemorrhoid Treatment, OTC Products Still Matter

Medical treatments can provide long-term relief, but they don’t eliminate the risk of future hemorrhoids. Many people still experience occasional flare-ups, irritation, or mild discomfort—which is why ongoing symptom management with OTC products is key.

✔ Continue using medicated wipes and sprays to keep the area clean and prevent irritation.
✔ Apply protective hemorrhoid creams to support healing and reduce future inflammation.
✔ Stick to a fiber-rich diet and stay hydrated to prevent straining.
✔ Monitor symptoms and address minor flare-ups early to prevent them from escalating.

Final Thoughts: When to Seek Help for Hemorrhoids

Look, we’re not here to scare you into running to the doctor every time you feel an itch—but we’re also not here to let you ignore symptoms that need real medical attention.

If your hemorrhoids aren’t responding to home treatments, it’s okay to see a doctor.
If you’re dealing with severe pain, persistent bleeding, or recurring flare-ups, a medical procedure might be the right move.
But no matter what treatment route you take, ongoing care with OTC products and smart daily habits will always be key to keeping hemorrhoids in check.