Hemroid or Skin Tag?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am a 24 year old male college student. I am healthy I think for the most part. I do drink and smoke on occasion. I recently found a hemroid on my rectum. I was very worried about it and I went to the doctor. He looked at it for about half a second and said that it was, indeed, a hemroid. I am worried that it could be a skin tag and possibly an early warning sign of chohn's disease. I found out that my cousin has this and since it is genetic it has me super worried. I also defecate more that one time a day everyday(not sure if that has anything to do with this). My doctor is not easy to deal with and this is super embarrassing anyway so I am not sure if i should go back or see anyone else. Is it that easy to just know a hemroid when you see one. It has me double guessing and that is not a good place to be.

Dear BK: I understand your situation. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum or anus; sometimes they are painful, depending on the area in which they appear.

The diagnosis is made just by observing the area and clinical history. Usually hemorrhoids do not require treatment unless they cause symptoms, usually stool softeners and laxatives help relieving straining with bowel movements. I agree with you that Chron’s disease runs in families and you should mention this to your doctor in your next appointment, but in my opinion this hemorrhoid does not mean you have Chron’s, they have totally different presentations.

Eating more fiber in your diet and plenty of fluids could help you reducing the inflammation caused, especially if you suffer from constipation, avoiding smoking will also help. If you start to feel pain in the area or high fevers, consult your physician, sometimes the veins have clots and causes pain, warm baths could alleviate this.  I wish you the best.