When should you see a doctor for hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a common but often taboo problem. It is important to know when a doctor visit is necessary to effectively treat the symptoms of hemorrhoids and avoid possible complications. The decision to see a doctor depends on the severity and type of symptoms.
|
Symptom |
When a doctor visit is recommended |
Explanation |
|
Bleeding during bowel movements |
With chronic or heavy blood loss. Read more here about blood in stool. |
Could indicate advanced hemorrhoids or other conditions such as anal fissures or polyps. |
|
Pain in the anal area |
With persistent or increasing pain, especially when sitting or during bowel movements |
Pain could be caused by an anal vein thrombosis or inflammation. |
|
Itching or oozing |
If symptoms cannot be relieved by hygiene or care products such as CANNEFF® SUP |
May indicate skin irritation, anal eczema, or an infection. |
|
Foreign body sensation |
If the feeling of "pressure" or "swelling" in the anal area persists |
Can be caused by prolapsed hemorrhoids that require medical treatment. |
|
Visible hemorrhoidal lumps |
With visible or palpable lumps outside the anus |
Possibly grade III or IV, which require medical or surgical intervention. |
|
Changes in bowel habits |
Sudden constipation, diarrhea, or mucus discharge |
Could indicate hemorrhoids, but also other intestinal diseases. |
Role of CANNEFF® SUP in rectal complaints
For mild to moderate symptoms, products like CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories can provide initial relief. Through the combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and hyaluronic acid, they have anti-inflammatory effects, soothe the mucous membrane, and promote regeneration. However, if symptoms do not improve despite use, a visit to a doctor is advisable. CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories are used for proctological diseases, prostatitis, nonspecific inflammations of the rectum, symptoms of non-bacterial prostatitis, for the rapid healing of anal fissures, anal vein thromboses, after surgical procedures, and to relieve mucous membrane complaints around the anus, e.g., anal itching. A good and accurate diagnosis is important despite the broad range of uses of CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories to optimize therapy success.

Which doctors specialize in the treatment of hemorrhoids?
The treatment of hemorrhoids requires expertise, as it is a sensitive topic that can be linked to various health issues in the anal and intestinal area. Depending on the severity of symptoms and possible comorbidities, there are different medical specialties involved in the diagnosis and therapy of hemorrhoids.
|
Specialty |
Role in the treatment of hemorrhoids |
|
Proctologists |
Specialists in rectal diseases; diagnose and treat hemorrhoids as well as other anal conditions. |
|
Gastroenterologists |
Experts in gastrointestinal diseases help with complaints related to the digestive tract. |
|
General practitioners |
First point of contact for a referral to specialists or for treating mild symptoms. |
|
Dermatologists |
Treatment for hemorrhoid-related skin irritations, eczema, or itching in the anal area. |
|
Surgeons |
Perform surgical procedures, e.g., hemorrhoidectomies in advanced stages (Hemorrhoids Grade III and Hemorrhoids Grade IV). |
When to see which doctor?
Mild symptomsA general practitioner can recommend initial measures such as dietary changes, ointments, or suppositories like CANNEFF® SUP, which have anti-inflammatory effects and protect the mucous membrane.
Advanced Symptoms: In cases of bleeding, severe pain, or prolapsed hemorrhoids, a proctologist should be consulted. Proctologists also perform minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation.
Accompanying Gastrointestinal Issues: If there is suspicion of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome, a gastroenterologist is the right choice.
Skin changes: If eczema, itching, or skin irritation predominate, a dermatologist can provide supportive help.
Surgical Necessity: In complicated or severe cases (e.g., Grade IV hemorrhoids), a surgeon is the appropriate contact.
How to Prepare for a Doctor’s Visit for Hemorrhoids
Preparing for a doctor’s visit due to hemorrhoids also includes hygiene to facilitate the examination and help you feel more comfortable.
Anal Area Hygiene
Gently clean the anal area with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh soaps or scented wet wipes to prevent irritation. Dry the skin by gently patting, without rubbing.
Document Symptoms
Note when the symptoms began, their intensity, and possible triggers (e.g., constipation, diarrhea, prolonged sitting).
Questions and Medical History
Prepare questions about diagnosis and treatment. Inform the doctor about your nutrition and hygiene routines as well as products used, e.g., CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories.
Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed for the examination. These measures ensure a pleasant examination experience and support an accurate diagnosis.
Which examinations does the doctor perform for hemorrhoids?
For hemorrhoids, the doctor performs various examinations to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the severity.
|
Examination method |
Description |
Purpose |
|
Medical history |
The doctor asks about symptoms, duration, possible triggers, and personal or family medical history. |
Initial assessment of symptoms and possible risk factors. |
|
Physical examination |
Visual inspection of the anal area to identify external changes such as swelling or skin irritation. |
Detection of external hemorrhoids or other anal diseases. |
|
Digital examination (palpation) |
Palpation of the anal canal with a finger to locate nodules, hardenings, or pain. |
Assessment of internal hemorrhoids and other anomalies. |
|
Proctoscopy |
Insertion of a short tube (proctoscope) into the anal canal to view the mucosa. |
Direct view of internal hemorrhoids, polyps, or other changes. |
|
Rectoscopy |
Examination of the rectum with a longer device (rectoscope). |
Diagnosis of diseases located further up in the rectum. |
|
Colonoscopy (if needed) |
Examination of the entire colon with a flexible endoscope. |
Exclusion of serious bowel diseases such as tumors or IBD. |
Additional diagnostics
Blood test: To detect signs of inflammation or anemia in frequent bleeding.
Stool analysis: To rule out infections or other causes of rectal bleeding.

Which symptoms justify an immediate visit to the doctor?
In rare cases, hemorrhoids can lead to acute complications. An immediate visit to the doctor is necessary if:
- Severe bleeding occurs that does not stop.
- Severe swelling or pain develops within a short time (possibly anal vein thrombosis).
- Fever or chills occur in combination with anal discomfort, as this could indicate an infection.
What treatment options can a doctor offer for hemorrhoids?
|
Treatment method |
Description |
|
Conservative therapy |
Use of ointments, suppositories, or sitz baths to relieve symptoms in early stages (hemorrhoid grade I treatment and hemorrhoid grade II treatment). |
|
Minimally invasive procedures |
Methods like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy to shrink hemorrhoids. |
|
Surgical procedures |
Hemorrhoidectomy or stapler method in advanced cases (grade III and IV). Read more here about hemorrhoid surgery. |
|
Accompanying measures |
Dietary changes, fluid intake, and care products like CANNEFF® SUP rectal suppositories for support. |
More information about treatment: Visit our blog post about hemorrhoid treatment for detailed insights into the various therapy options. Read more here about the stages of hemorrhoids or about bleeding hemorrhoids.
When is surgical intervention necessary for hemorrhoids?
|
Criterion |
Description |
Reference |
|
Grade III hemorrhoids |
Hemorrhoids that prolapse permanently but can still be manually pushed back. |
|
|
Grade IV hemorrhoids |
Hemorrhoids that can no longer be pushed back and cause severe discomfort. |
|
|
complications |
Bleeding, inflammation, or tissue changes that do not respond to conservative treatments. |
|
|
Chronic complaints |
Persistent pain, oozing, or itching that significantly impair quality of life. |
|
|
Failure of minimally invasive therapies |
When methods such as rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy do not provide sufficient relief. |
Surgical procedures are usually only recommended when other treatment options have been exhausted. Detailed information about treatment options can be found in our blog posts on Hemorrhoids Grade III and Hemorrhoids Grade IV Treatment. Read more here about Surgery for Hemorrhoids or the different Stages of Hemorrhoids.

What questions should you ask the doctor at an appointment?
At an appointment for hemorrhoid treatment, you should ask targeted questions to better understand your symptoms and find the right therapy. The most important questions include:
Diagnosis: “What causes could my symptoms have, and is it definitely hemorrhoids?”
Treatment options: “What treatment options are available for my case, and what are their advantages and disadvantages?”
Lifestyle changes: “What measures can I take to relieve my symptoms or prevent hemorrhoids?”
Course and prognosis: “How long does healing take, and what happens if the symptoms persist?”
Therapy success: “When should the symptoms subside after treatment, and what should be done if they do not?”
Good preparation for the appointment, including a list of your symptoms and previous measures, helps to make the doctor visit effective.
How do you find a suitable specialist for hemorrhoids?
The best way to find a suitable specialist for hemorrhoids is through targeted research and recommendations. Proctologists are the first choice as they specialize in diseases of the rectum. Alternatively, gastroenterologists or surgeons with a proctological focus can also help.
Recommendations: Ask your general practitioner or acquaintances for recommendations.
Online platforms: Use specialized doctor review portals or appointment platforms.
Location and accessibility: Choose a practice or clinic near you to facilitate continuous treatment.
It is important that the specialist has experience in dealing with hemorrhoids and offers compassionate care.

What costs does health insurance cover for hemorrhoid treatment in Austria?
In Austria, the costs for hemorrhoid treatment are generally covered by statutory health insurance, provided the treatment is medically necessary.
|
Service |
Cost coverage by health insurance |
|
Diagnostics (examination) |
The costs for medical examinations, such as anamnesis, proctoscopy, or rectoscopy, are covered. |
|
Conservative therapy |
Ointments, suppositories, or other prescription medications are subsidized if medically indicated. |
|
Minimally invasive procedures |
Measures such as rubber band ligations or sclerotherapy are usually fully covered by health insurance. |
|
Surgical treatments |
Procedures like hemorrhoidectomy or the HAL method are covered in public hospitals. |
|
Follow-up and check-ups |
Medical follow-up appointments are generally free of charge. |
Additional costs and exceptions
Private doctors: Visits to elective doctors or specialists in private clinics usually have to be paid for by yourself but can be partially reimbursed.
Supplemental insurance: These can cover additional services such as treatments by private providers or faster appointments.
Medications: Over-the-counter products, such as certain ointments or suppositories, e.g.: CANNEFF® SUP rectal suppositories, usually have to be paid for by yourself.
What alternative treatment methods do doctors recommend for hemorrhoids?
In addition to conventional approaches such as ointments, suppositories, and surgical procedures, alternative treatment methods can also be helpful in relieving hemorrhoids. Doctors often recommend these approaches as complementary measures to reduce symptoms and support the healing process.
|
Treatment method |
Description |
Application area |
|
Sitz baths with natural additives |
Sitz baths with chamomile, oak bark, or witch hazel have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. |
To relieve itching, swelling, and inflammation. |
|
Acupuncture |
Traditional method to promote blood circulation and relieve pain. |
For chronic complaints or to support conventional therapies. |
|
Herbal preparations |
Products with horse chestnut extract, witch hazel, or aloe vera strengthen blood vessels and soothe the skin. |
To reduce swelling and care for the sensitive anal area. |
|
Contain CBD and hyaluronic acid, promote regeneration, and have anti-inflammatory effects. |
Speeds up healing and tissue regeneration in diseases of the anorectal canal or during proctological treatments and surgeries. To relieve pain, itching, and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. |
|
|
Dietary measures |
Use of psyllium husks or flaxseeds to promote regular digestion. |
To prevent constipation and the associated pressure on the hemorrhoids. Read more here about preventing hemorrhoids. |
|
Biofeedback therapy |
Technique for conscious relaxation of the pelvic floor. |
To prevent pressure in the anal canal, especially in cases of chronic constipation. |