Persistent Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a common ailment, and in most cases, they flare up from time to time, but are nothing to worry about. However, if you have what appear to be hemorrhoids that do not respond to treatment, it’s important that you see a gastro intestinal specialist and have them checked out. Approximately 30% of patients with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory disorder of the gastro intestinal tract, have a form that only affects the anal region. In these cases, the disorder appears as fleshy growths, sores or ulcerations that can be easily mistaken for hemorrhoids.
This type of Crohn’s disease is the most painful and does not have a good prognosis. If left untreated, Crohn’s disease can lead to painful fissures, bowel obstruction and even colon cancer. Testing for Crohn’s disease involves having a blood test to check white blood cell counts and other markers of the disease.
