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Hemorrhoids
At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides comprehensive hemorrhoid care, from diagnoses to personalized treatments. Combining lifestyle guidance, minimally invasive procedures, surgical options, his compassionate approach ensures fast, lasting relief, reduced recurrence, and improved quality of life.
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
Low-fiber diet
Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
Obesity or overweight
Pregnancy and increased pelvic pressure
Aging and weakened anal tissues
Signs and Symptoms
Itching or irritation around the anus
Mild pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet
Soft lump or swelling near the anal opening
Sensation of anal fullness or pressure
Mucus discharge after bowel movements
Feeling of incomplete emptying
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your pain pattern (location, timing, triggers), gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, reflux), diet, medication use, and any red-flag signs (weight loss, bleeding). A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, masses, or organ enlargement.
Laboratory Tests
Blood work may include a complete blood count (to assess for anemia or infection), liver enzymes and pancreatic enzymes (to rule out hepatobiliary or pancreatic causes), and H. pylori testing (breath, blood, or stool) if ulcer disease is suspected.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound evaluates the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas for stones or inflammation.
CT scan of the abdomen can provide more detailed anatomy when complications or alternative diagnoses are a concern.
Barium upper GI series may be used selectively to assess structural abnormalities of the esophagus and stomach.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
A thin, flexible scope is passed through the mouth to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Biopsies can be taken to diagnose gastritis, ulcers, Barrett's esophagus, or other mucosal disease.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
For persistent or atypical pain, Dr. Nguyen may order esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH monitoring (to evaluate motility disorders or acid reflux) or a gastric emptying study if gastroparesis is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for hemorrhoids.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase fiber intake and hydration to soften stools
Regular exercise and prompt bathroom visits to reduce straining
Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet to lessen pressure
2. Medications and Topical Treatments
Over-the-counter creams and suppositories to relieve swelling and itching
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen for short-term comfort
Prescription-strength options if symptoms persist
3. Minimally Invasive and Advanced Procedures
Rubber-band ligation to cut off blood flow to internal hemorrhoids
Sclerotherapy injections that shrink the affected veins
Infrared coagulation to seal off hemorrhoidal blood vessels
Hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy for large or persistent cases
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
Can hemorrhoids cause constipation?
Hemorrhoids do not cause constipation, but straining due to constipation can worsen or trigger them by increasing pressure in the rectal veins.
What do hemorrhoids look like?
External hemorrhoids appear as tender, bluish lumps around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum and are usually not visible unless they prolapse or bleed.
How long does it take for hemorrhoids to heal?
With proper home care, most hemorrhoids improve in 3-7 days. Office treatments like rubber-band ligation or sclerotherapy can speed relief and reduce recurrence.
Can I treat hemorrhoids at home in 48 hours?
Your swelling and discomfort may start to improve in 48 hours with dietary changes, sitz baths, topical creams, and cold packs, but full healing often takes longer.
Are hemorrhoid procedures painful?
Most office procedures use local anesthesia or light sedation, so any discomfort is mild and short-lived.
When should I see a doctor?
If pain, bleeding, or swelling lasts more than a week, or if home remedies don't help, it's time to schedule an evaluation with a specialist.
Do hemorrhoids come back after treatment?
Hemorrhoids can recur, but long-term lifestyle changes and preventive care can significantly reduce your risk of future episodes.
