4 side effects after haemorrhoid surgery (and what to do about them)

While haemorrhoid treatments vary, surgery may be indicated for severe or persistent haemorrhoids that don’t respond to other, less invasive interventions. Below, the office of Dr Shanthan Ganesh in North Adelaide, South Australia, has highlighted four potential side effects following the haemorrhoidectomy procedure. 

1 – Mucus discharge

As the lining of the rectum continues to produce lubricant, you may notice a clear or yellowish, light brown, and jelly-like discharge that can last for weeks. Discharge should be minor, although it may be necessary to wear and change sanitary pads regularly while your body heals. This is a normal bodily response to inflammation. However, please contact us if you notice signs of infection, such as a green-hued, foul-smelling discharge. 

2 – Bleeding 

It’s normal to have some bleeding after haemorrhoidectomy. This bleeding may accompany bowel movements. You may notice blood in your stool or on toilet tissue. Here again, sanitary pads can help soak excess fluid and moisture, maintaining your comfort and personal hygiene. You should not bleed excessively. In fact, it’s essential to avoid constipation, which could result in straining. When you strain too hard, it can split the wound open and lead to severe bleeding. Hydration and a high-fibre diet are essential for promoting healthy bowel habits and avoiding constipation and straining. 

3 – Swelling

It’s not uncommon to feel haemorrhoid-like swelling inside your anus. Lumps and skin tags can develop at the surgical site. These thickened areas of tissue generally go away once you have healed. To help alleviate discomfort, apply ice wrapped in a towel to the swollen area a few times a day. You can also ease swelling by sleeping on your stomach, with your hips supported by a pillow. 

4 – Discomfort

The experience of pain is, of course, subjective. It’s not unusual for discomfort to peak after the first bowel movement following haemorrhoidectomy. Muscles in the anal area may also spasm. As you heal, symptoms should improve. Taking oral and topical medications and practising gentle wound care as prescribed by Dr Ganesh can help manage pain.  Take steps to avoid constipation, as it can delay healing and worsen pain. We recommend that you consider incorporating a stool softener or laxative into your recovery regimen. A warm sitz bath can help you relax and alleviate pain. If discomfort lasts longer than two weeks, is severe, or prevents you from urinating or having a bowel movement, contact us immediately. 

You should also reach out to the office of Dr Shanthan Ganesh if mucus or some of the symptoms listed above are also accompanied by:

• Redness.
• Skin that is warm to the touch.
• Fever.
• Chills.
• Red streaks at the site.
• Pus.
• Nausea, inability to keep fluids down.
• No bowel movements for 48 hours.
• Difficulty urinating.

When patients are well-informed about every step in the treatment process, they are equipped to do the things that support predictable, complication-free healing. Phone 08 81646727 to speak with a member of our team in North Adelaide, SA. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your concerns and answer any questions you may have about haemorrhoidectomy treatment.

Share this Article