[DebbieJ54]

Hemorrhoids and a stem cell transplant

by DebbieJ54 on Sun Feb 28, 2016 7:42 am

Hi!

I am scheduled for my autologous stem cell transplant in 2 weeks. I have read a lot about the GI challenges.

My question is: I have hemorrhoids, and they occasionally bleed just a tiny bit. Will this be a risk for infection during the stem cell transplant recovery?

I hadn't really thought about it before, but if there is tiny bleeding from the hemorrhoids, isn't that an infection risk?

[Maya]

Re: Hemorrhoids and a stem cell transplant

by Maya on Sun Feb 28, 2016 8:29 am

Hi Debbie.

My husband had the same concern, but doctors told us not to worry.

[blueblood]

Re: Hemorrhoids and a stem cell transplant

by blueblood on Sun Feb 28, 2016 9:47 am

DebbieJ54

I wouldn't be too con­cerned about in­fection. I think my feces had plenty of other oppor­tunities to come in contact with my blood system in my GI tract. However, during my transplants (and chemo rounds) I was highly encouraged to have a caregiver present as an outpatient. The nurses didn't want me to fall or hurt myself in some way which could cause bleeding. I was continuously moni­tored such that my platelets didn't go below 20. Low platelets and bleeding isn't a good combi­nation.

Just be careful.

[DuckJibe]

Re: Hemorrhoids and a stem cell transplant

by DuckJibe on Mon Feb 29, 2016 8:58 am

I have hemorrhoids and recently had a transplant. Due to the incessant bowel movements, I had an extremely painful experience and was on serious pain medication all along. Your experience may be different, but I wanted to share mine.

Good luck!

[Yellow Rose]

Re: Hemorrhoids and a stem cell transplant

by Yellow Rose on Tue Mar 01, 2016 9:27 pm

I have serious hemorrhoids that bleed occasionally. During the transplant process, they did hurt due to the inevitable diarrhea. Your wonderful nurses will help with pain meds and soothing wipes. Not to worry.

Best wishes.