Hi. I'm a 35 year old male and was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids about 10 years ago. Last week I noticed a grape sized sack on the outside of my anal cavity. I did some internet research and I think it is likely a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid. I attempted to push it back, but it immediately came back out, which makes me think it is the most severe kind - stage 4. I haven't noticed any blood and right now it is more just constant discomfort, not really too painful.
I have an appointment with a specialist in 10 days, but am nervous about what to expect so I thought I would come here to hopefully get some answers while I wait.
If it is a stage 4 prolapsed internal hemorrhoid, what are my options? I've read about hemorrhoidectomies and they scare the crap out of me with the pain during the long recovery. I've also heard of the staple hemorrhoidectomies and I guess they seem a little better. What else might the doctor do?
Also, is it likely this is something other than a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid?