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External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins at the anus. In Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs provides expert diagnosis and personalized treatment—from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures—for fast relief. Discover causes, symptoms, and advanced care options today.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Straining during bowel movements
Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Prolonged sitting (e.g., at work or in traffic)
Pregnancy and childbirth
Frequent heavy lifting
Overweight or obesity
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or throbbing around the anus
Itching or irritation in the anal area
Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool
Swollen, tender lumps near the anal opening
Mucus discharge after bowel movements
Discomfort when sitting or walking
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Risk Assessment
He discusses your symptoms, bowel‐movement patterns, past episodes of hemorrhoids, and any factors like straining or prolonged sitting.
Physical and Visual Examination
In a private exam room, he gently inspects the anal area for external lumps, swelling, or skin tags.
Anoscopic Evaluation (If Needed)
Using a small, lighted scope (anoscope), he examines the lower rectum to confirm the size and location of hemorrhoidal veins.
Documentation and Coding
All findings are recorded using ICD-10 code K64.3 to ensure accurate medical records and seamless insurance claims.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for external hemorrhoids.
1. Home Care and Lifestyle Changes
Eat more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day
Don't strain on the toilet - use a footstool if needed
Take short breaks if you sit a lot during work or driving
2. Medications
Stool softeners to make bowel movements easier
Creams and suppositories with hydrocortisone to reduce swelling
Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
3. Medical Procedures (If Needed)
Rubber band ligation - cuts off blood flow to shrink the hemorrhoid
Infrared coagulation - uses light to shrink the vein
Sclerotherapy - uses a safe injection to seal the vein
Hemorrhoid surgery - for large or painful hemorrhoids that keep coming back
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do external hemorrhoids go away without treatment?
Sometimes, mild external hemorrhoids improve on their own with home care like sitz baths, increased fiber, and hydration. However, many cases require medical treatment for full relief.
What do external hemorrhoids look like?
They appear as small, tender, bluish or skin-colored bumps around the anus that may cause itching or discomfort.
How long does healing take?
Mild cases often improve within 2-3 days. Complete healing typically happens in 1-2 weeks with proper care.
Are treatments painful?
Most treatments are quick and performed with numbing agents. Patients usually experience little to no pain during procedures.
What is the ICD-10 code for external hemorrhoids?
The code for external hemorrhoids is K64.3, used for accurate medical records and insurance claims.
Can changing my diet help?
Yes. Eating more fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water softens stools and reduces straining, lowering the risk of flare-ups.
When should I get help right away?
Contact a doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a fever, as these may indicate complications.
