Frequently asked questions

Notice: The information provided in this section is not meant to suggest any medical course of action without further discussion with your health professionals.

If you cannot find an answer to your own question in this section, use this form to send a question to Dr. Gargaun.

1. What are the risks of having hemorrhoids?
2. After having my bowel movements, I have streaks of bright red blood on the toilet paper and in the stools, but no other symptoms. Should I contact my health care professional?
3. I have a very itchy backside particularly during the night. What should I do to relieve it?
4. Hemorrhoids and anal fissure are causes for anal itching. Are there other causes of this symptom?
5. Is dietary fibre an effective treatment for hemorrhoids?
6. What are some dietary sources of fiber?

1. What are the risks of having hemorrhoids?

The word "hemorrhoid" means "flow of blood", and bleeding is the main symptom. Hemorrhoids are not dangerous, however if you continuously bleed you may develop anemia.

2. After having my bowel movements, I have streaks of bright red blood on the toilet paper and in the stools, but no other symptoms. Should I contact my health care professional?

Yes, any bleeding from the anus should be reported to your health care professional. Most common causes of rectal bleeding are hemorrhoids, fissures and polyps.^a

3. I have a very itchy backside particularly during the night. What should I do to relieve it?

Try not to scratch this area because it worsens the irritation. Keep the area as clean, dry and cool as possible. If these symptoms persists, you should speak with your health care professional.

4. Hemorrhoids and anal fissure are causes for anal itching. Are there other causes of this symptom?

Yes, there are other causes and aggravating factors of anal itching. Your health care professional will explore other possibilities such as: fungal infection, "jock itch", eczema and antibiotic treatment. Some soaps, perfumed toilet tissue, powders or clothing might cause itching as well. Pruritus ani is also seen at times of stress, work overload and in hot weather when sweating is excessive due to tight clothing such as panty hose in the summer.

5. Is dietary fibre an effective treatment for hemorrhoids?

Yes, and your health care professional should recommend increased intakes of fibre. Fibre supplementation has been shown to reduce episodes of bleeding and discomfort in patients with internal hemorrhoids. It may take up to six weeks for significant improvement. Increasing intake of fibre is useful for softening stools, relieving constipation, and thus reducing straining.

6. What are some dietary sources of fiber?

Good dietary sources of fiber are fresh fruit, leafy vegetables, whole-grains breads and cereals.