How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Hemorrhoids

Audience: adult

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, or bleeding. Preparing for a video visit about hemorrhoids helps you get the most from your telemedicine appointment. During the visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any treatments you have tried. They may also guide you on self-care steps or recommend further evaluation if needed. While telemedicine can provide advice and education, it cannot replace a physical exam when necessary. Being ready with your symptom details, questions, and a private, quiet space will help your video visit go smoothly. Remember, if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or other urgent signs, seek in-person care promptly.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy rectal bleeding or blood clots — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe anal pain or swelling that worsens — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Fever or signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or pus around the anus — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to hemorrhoids.
• Providing education on self-care and symptom relief.
• Recommending dietary and lifestyle changes to prevent hemorrhoids.
• Determining if symptoms require in-person evaluation.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor symptom progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or procedures like rubber band ligation.
• Diagnosing other serious conditions that mimic hemorrhoids.
• Managing severe bleeding or complications requiring emergency care.
• Prescribing controlled substances or complex treatments without in-person assessment.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anus or lower rectum. They can be inside the rectum (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external). Common symptoms include pain, itching, swelling, and sometimes bleeding during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are common and often caused by straining during bowel movements, constipation, pregnancy, or sitting for long periods.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your symptoms, help identify if hemorrhoids might be the cause, and suggest ways to relieve discomfort. They can also advise when you should see a provider in person for further tests or treatment. Telemedicine is useful for education, symptom management, and follow-up care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are. Note any treatments or home remedies you have tried. Find a quiet, private place with good internet connection and a device with a camera. Have a list of questions ready to ask your provider. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show the affected area if needed.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may ask you to describe or show the affected area via video if you feel comfortable. Based on your information, they will suggest treatment options such as dietary changes, topical treatments, or when to seek in-person care. They may also provide advice on preventing future hemorrhoids.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms require urgent evaluation, such as heavy rectal bleeding, severe pain, fever, or signs of infection. If you notice a lump that is very painful or does not improve, or if you have changes in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss, you should see a healthcare provider in person. Telemedicine cannot replace physical exams or procedures needed in these cases.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms including start date, severity, and any changes.
• List any treatments or home remedies you have tried.
• Prepare questions you want to ask your provider.
• Choose a quiet, private space with good internet and a device with a camera.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show the affected area if needed.
• Have a notepad ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider’s recommendations for diet, hygiene, and medications.
• Use recommended topical treatments or sitz baths as advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended.
• Seek in-person care if you develop red-flag symptoms or worsening condition.

FAQs

Can hemorrhoids go away on their own?

Yes, many hemorrhoids improve with simple self-care measures such as increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. However, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Is it safe to show the affected area during a video visit?

You can choose whether to show the area during your video visit. Providers understand this can be uncomfortable and will respect your privacy. Sometimes seeing the area helps with assessment, but it is not always necessary.

What treatments might my provider suggest during a telemedicine visit?

Your provider may recommend over-the-counter creams, warm sitz baths, increased fiber and fluids, and lifestyle changes. They will also advise when you need in-person care for further treatment.

When should I seek emergency care for hemorrhoids?

Seek emergency care if you have heavy rectal bleeding, severe pain, fever, or signs of infection such as redness and pus. These symptoms require prompt medical attention.

Sources

1. Hemorrhoids — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Hemorrhoids: Overview and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hemorrhoids — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hemorrhoids: Consumer Version — Merck Manuals.

This telemedicine guidance is for education and preparation only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.