What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Hemorrhoids

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for hemorrhoids, you will usually receive advice on managing symptoms and preventing discomfort. Your healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes, such as eating more fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. They might recommend over-the-counter creams or sitz baths to reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, if symptoms are severe or persistent, your provider may advise an in-person visit for further evaluation or treatment. Follow-up steps often include monitoring your symptoms and contacting your healthcare provider if you notice worsening pain, bleeding, or other concerns. Telemedicine offers a convenient way to discuss symptoms and get guidance, but it is important to seek urgent care if you experience serious signs.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy rectal bleeding that soaks through toilet paper or continues after bowel movements — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe pain in the anal area that does not improve with home treatments — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• A hard lump near the anus that does not shrink or is accompanied by fever — arrange urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of hemorrhoid symptoms and history taking
• Providing advice on diet, hydration, and lifestyle changes
• Recommending over-the-counter treatments and home care
• Monitoring symptom progress and follow-up consultations

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or procedures
• Diagnosing complications such as thrombosed hemorrhoids requiring surgery
• Managing severe bleeding or acute pain emergencies
• Providing surgical treatments or in-office procedures

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and medical history during the telemedicine visit. Afterward, they may provide recommendations such as dietary changes, ways to improve bowel habits, and suggestions for symptom relief like warm sitz baths or topical treatments. You might receive prescriptions or instructions on over-the-counter options. Expect guidance on when to seek further care if symptoms do not improve.

Lifestyle and Home Care Recommendations

Common advice includes increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stools. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation. Avoiding prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements can reduce pressure on hemorrhoids. Warm baths several times a day may relieve discomfort. These steps often help symptoms improve over days to weeks.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a lump that does not reduce in size, your provider may recommend an in-person examination. Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home care also warrant further evaluation. In some cases, procedures or surgery may be needed, which require a physical visit.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person appointment to check your progress. Keep track of your symptoms and any changes, such as bleeding or pain. Report new or worsening symptoms promptly. Following your provider’s instructions and maintaining healthy habits are key to recovery.

Managing Medications and Treatments

You may be advised to use topical creams, ointments, or suppositories to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Always use medications as directed and inform your provider about any side effects or concerns.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms including duration and severity.
• List any medications or treatments you are currently using.
• Prepare to describe your bowel habits and diet.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss.
• Ensure a private, quiet space with a reliable internet connection for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the lifestyle and dietary recommendations provided.
• Use any prescribed or recommended medications as directed.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule or attend follow-up appointments as advised.
• Seek urgent care if you notice red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can I treat hemorrhoids at home after a telemedicine visit?

Yes, many hemorrhoid symptoms improve with home care such as increasing fiber intake, drinking fluids, and using warm sitz baths. Your provider may also recommend topical treatments to reduce pain and swelling.

When should I see a doctor in person after a telemedicine visit?

You should seek in-person care if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain that does not improve, a persistent lump near the anus, or if your symptoms worsen or do not improve with home treatment.

Are hemorrhoids dangerous?

Hemorrhoids are common and usually not dangerous. However, severe bleeding or pain can indicate complications that require prompt medical attention.

Can telemedicine diagnose all types of hemorrhoids?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and provide guidance, but physical examination is often needed to diagnose the type and severity of hemorrhoids accurately.

What can I do to prevent hemorrhoids from coming back?

Maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying well hydrated, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and regular exercise can help prevent hemorrhoids.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have serious or worsening symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.