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Hemorrhoid Care in Katy & Cypress, TX
Hemorrhoid Treatment Specialist in Katy, Cypress & Near Fulshear, TX
Bright red blood on the toilet paper, itching, swelling or a tender lump near the anus are common signs of hemorrhoids. Board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan evaluates rectal symptoms at our Katy and Cypress offices, confirms whether hemorrhoids are the cause, and recommends home care or office-based treatment when it is appropriate.
Medically reviewed by Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE · Updated
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
Board-Certified Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
Meet Your Hemorrhoid & Rectal Bleeding Specialist: Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
BOARD-CERTIFIED Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
CREDENTIALS AT A GLANCE
Board-Certified
Gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine
Academic Medicine
Former Associate Professor, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Published Research
More than 100 peer-reviewed articles in gastroenterology
FACP and FASGE
Fellow, American College of Physicians and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE
Board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist, United Gastroenterology Associates
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE, is a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist who sees patients at the United Gastroenterology Associates offices in Cypress and Katy. He evaluates and treats hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding and other digestive conditions, performs colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy, and coordinates surgical referral when needed.
Dr. Khan earned his medical degree at Dow Medical College, completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Toledo, and completed a gastroenterology and hepatology fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. He served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and as an Associate Professor at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
He is board-certified in gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine, is a Fellow of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (FASGE) and the American College of Physicians (FACP), and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. Read Dr. Khan’s full profile.
Professional Memberships
- American College of Gastroenterology
- American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (Fellow)
- American Gastroenterological Association
- American College of Physicians (Fellow)
- Texas Medical Association
- Texas Society of Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
Areas of Care
- Internal and external hemorrhoids
- Thrombosed hemorrhoids
- Rectal bleeding and blood in the stool
- Anal itching and discomfort
- Constipation and straining
- Chronic diarrhea
- Colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Colorectal cancer screening
What Are Hemorrhoids?
When patients visit United Gastroenterology Associates in Cypress or Katy with rectal symptoms, Dr. Khan checks for hemorrhoids, which are swollen, enlarged blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. Everyone has these vascular cushions; they become hemorrhoids when they swell, stretch or bleed, usually because of increased pressure in the area.
Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and often cause painless bleeding. External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and are more likely to itch, ache or swell. Hemorrhoids are very common, especially in adults over 50 and during pregnancy.
Most hemorrhoids improve with simple changes in diet and bowel habits. A gastroenterologist can confirm the diagnosis, rule out other causes of bleeding, and recommend office treatment when symptoms keep returning.
Rectal bleeding evaluation · Causes of blood in the stool · Constipation care
Board-Certified
Gastroenterology, hepatology, and internal medicine
Academic Medicine
Former Associate Professor, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Published Research
More than 100 peer-reviewed articles in gastroenterology
FACP and FASGE
Fellow, American College of Physicians and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
What Are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
The most common sign of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood on toilet paper, on the stool or in the toilet bowl, usually without pain. External hemorrhoids are more likely to cause itching, irritation, swelling and discomfort, especially when sitting.
Some people have no symptoms until a hemorrhoid prolapses, bulging outside the anus during or after a bowel movement.
When to seek emergency care
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for heavy rectal bleeding, bleeding with dizziness, weakness or fainting, black or tarry stools, or severe abdominal pain.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids
- Bright red blood with bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Swelling or a lump near the anus
- Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
- Tissue that bulges out of the anus (prolapse)
- Mucus discharge or a feeling of incomplete emptying
These symptoms have other possible causes and should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
Internal vs. External Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids sit inside the rectum, where there are few pain-sensing nerves, so they usually bleed without hurting. They are graded by how far they prolapse, from grade I (no prolapse) to grade IV (stays outside and cannot be pushed back in).
External hemorrhoids develop under the sensitive skin around the anus. They can itch and ache, and a blood clot can form inside one and cause sudden pain. The type and grade help guide which treatment fits best.
Bleeding Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid bleeding is usually bright red and small in amount, appearing on toilet paper or dripping into the bowl after a bowel movement. Even when hemorrhoids are the likely cause, recurring bleeding is a reason to see a gastroenterologist rather than keep treating it at home.
Bleeding that is dark, mixed into the stool, accompanied by a change in bowel habits, or linked with fatigue or anemia points away from hemorrhoids and needs evaluation.
Blood in stool specialist · When to see a GI doctor for blood in the stool
Thrombosed (Clotted) Hemorrhoids
A thrombosed hemorrhoid forms when a blood clot develops inside an external hemorrhoid. It often causes sudden, severe pain and a firm, bluish lump near the anus, and the pain is usually worst in the first two to three days.
If the pain is severe, prompt evaluation matters, because a clot can sometimes be relieved with a minor procedure soon after it forms. Do not try to drain or cut a hemorrhoid yourself.
Hemorrhoids vs. Other Causes of Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding should never be assumed to come from hemorrhoids. Anal fissures, colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular bleeding and colorectal cancer can all cause blood in the stool, and some of these conditions have few other early symptoms.
Evaluation is especially important if you are 45 or older, have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, notice a change in bowel habits, lose weight without trying, or have iron-deficiency anemia.
What Causes Hemorrhoids and Who Is at Risk?
Hemorrhoids develop when pressure in the lower rectum stretches and swells the blood vessels in the area. Common contributing factors include:
Straining During Bowel Movements
Pushing hard to pass stool increases pressure on the rectal veins and is one of the most common causes.
Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea
Hard stools and frequent loose stools both irritate the area and make hemorrhoids more likely.
Pregnancy
Pressure from the growing uterus and hormonal changes commonly cause hemorrhoids during pregnancy and after delivery.
Prolonged Sitting
Long periods on the toilet, including time spent on a phone, and sitting for many hours increase pressure on the anal veins.
Low-Fiber Diet
Too little fiber and fluid leads to harder stools and more straining.
Aging, Weight and Heavy Lifting
Supporting tissues weaken with age, and excess body weight or repeated heavy lifting add pressure in the pelvic area.
Hemorrhoids are not dangerous for most people, but symptoms that keep returning are worth evaluating. Constipated even with a high-fiber diet?
Gastroenterology Care for Fulshear Patients
Patients from Fulshear and nearby communities can visit our Katy gastroenterology office at 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494 for evaluation of hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding and other digestive symptoms.
How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with your symptoms, bowel habits and medical history, followed by a gentle examination. Because other conditions can cause similar symptoms, your doctor may recommend more testing based on your age, risk factors and the type of bleeding.
Physical and Digital Rectal Exam
A visual exam of the anal area and a gloved-finger exam of the lower rectum can identify external hemorrhoids, fissures, skin tags and other findings.
Anoscopy
A short, lighted tube lets the doctor see internal hemorrhoids and the lining of the anal canal. It is quick and is usually done in the office without sedation.
Colonoscopy or Flexible Sigmoidoscopy When Indicated
Examining more of the colon helps rule out polyps, inflammation or cancer when bleeding is unexplained, when you are due for colorectal cancer screening, or when other warning signs are present.
Not sure whether you need a colonoscopy? Read about colonoscopy and colorectal cancer screening.
How Are Hemorrhoids Treated?
Hemorrhoid treatment usually starts with the simplest effective steps and moves to office procedures only when symptoms persist. The goals are to relieve symptoms, stop bleeding and keep hemorrhoids from coming back.
Fiber, Fluids and Bowel Habits
Eating more fiber, drinking enough water, not straining and limiting time on the toilet soften stools and reduce pressure. Many hemorrhoids improve with these steps alone.
Topical Treatments and Sitz Baths
Over-the-counter creams, ointments or suppositories and warm sitz baths can ease itching and discomfort for a short time. Ask your doctor before using a steroid cream for more than about a week.
Rubber Band Ligation
A small band placed at the base of an internal hemorrhoid cuts off its blood supply so it shrinks and falls off, usually within about a week. It is a common office-based option for bleeding or prolapsing internal hemorrhoids.
Sclerotherapy and Infrared Coagulation
Other office-based options shrink internal hemorrhoids with an injected solution or a focused light source. Your doctor will explain which approach suits your hemorrhoid type and grade.
Surgical Treatment
For large, severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to office treatment, surgery such as a hemorrhoidectomy may be considered. When surgery is appropriate, you may be referred to a colorectal surgeon.
Follow-Up and Prevention
Hemorrhoids can come back, so staying regular with fiber, fluids and healthy bowel habits is the best long-term prevention. Bleeding that returns should be rechecked.
This information is educational. Do not start a new treatment or stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.
What Are the Complications of Hemorrhoids?
Most hemorrhoids never cause serious problems, but symptoms that are ignored can become more uncomfortable or hide another condition. Possible complications include:
Ongoing Bleeding and Anemia
Repeated bleeding can, in rare cases, lower iron levels and cause fatigue. Anemia always calls for a search for the source of blood loss.
Thrombosis
A clot inside an external hemorrhoid can cause sudden, intense pain and swelling.
Prolapse and Strangulation
An internal hemorrhoid that prolapses and cannot be pushed back in can lose its blood supply and become very painful. This needs prompt medical attention.
Skin Tags
Extra skin can remain after a hemorrhoid heals. Skin tags are harmless but can make cleaning or comfort more difficult.
What causes blood in the stool? · Rectal bleeding care for Katy and Cypress patients
When Hemorrhoid Symptoms Need Gastroenterology Evaluation
See a gastroenterologist when bleeding keeps returning, lasts more than a week, or changes in color or amount; when pain or swelling does not improve with home care; when a hemorrhoid bulges out and will not go back in; or when bleeding comes with a change in bowel habits.Adults at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. If you are due for screening, rectal bleeding is a good reason to discuss it now rather than delay.
Colon cancer screening guidelines · Screening vs. diagnostic colonoscopy · Positive Cologuard? Next steps
Where Can You Get Hemorrhoid Treatment Near You?
Dr. Khan evaluates and treats hemorrhoids at two offices, Katy on I-10 and Cypress on US-290. These local pages describe each office and the communities it serves.
Katy
Hemorrhoid and rectal bleeding care at the Katy office on Katy Freeway near the Grand Parkway.
Cypress
Hemorrhoid symptoms, rectal bleeding and colonoscopy evaluation at the Cypress office on Northwest Freeway.
Rosenberg
Rosenberg and Fort Bend County patients are seen at our Katy office.
Houston
Houston-area patients can be seen at either office for hemorrhoids and rectal bleeding.
Greater Houston
Colonoscopy and rectal bleeding evaluation for patients across the Houston area.
Prefer to talk with the office first? Call (346) 340-4414 or view both office locations.
What Does a Hemorrhoid Specialist Do?
Hemorrhoids are often treated by gastroenterologists, physicians trained in diseases of the digestive tract, including the rectum and anus. A gastroenterologist confirms whether hemorrhoids are causing your symptoms, looks for other causes of bleeding, and recommends treatment that matches your hemorrhoid type and severity.
Consider seeing a specialist when hemorrhoids keep coming back, bleed regularly, cause significant pain, do not improve after a week or two of home care, or when you are unsure whether the bleeding is from hemorrhoids at all.
Why Choose United Gastroenterology Associates for Hemorrhoid Care?
Patients from Katy, Cypress and the west and northwest Houston area choose United Gastroenterology Associates for a careful evaluation of rectal symptoms and a clear, step-by-step treatment plan.
Bleeding Evaluated, Not Assumed
Other causes of bleeding are considered, so you are not treated for hemorrhoids when something else is going on.
Colonoscopy in the Same Practice
Dr. Khan performs colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy when a fuller look at the colon is needed.
Step-by-Step Treatment
Care starts with home measures and moves to office-based options only if symptoms persist.
Related Conditions Considered
Anal fissures, constipation, diarrhea, IBS and inflammatory bowel disease can cause similar symptoms and are considered.
Prevention-Focused Follow-Up
You get practical guidance on fiber, fluids and bowel habits to help keep hemorrhoids from returning.
Two Convenient Offices
Katy on I-10 and Cypress on US-290, with one phone number for scheduling.
Hemorrhoid Treatment at Our Katy and Cypress Offices
Dr. Khan sees patients at the Cypress office at 21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640, Cypress, TX 77429, serving Cypress, Tomball, Jersey Village and northwest Houston, and at the Katy office at 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494, serving Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Rosenberg and west Houston. Fulshear-area patients usually find the Katy office most convenient. Both offices share one phone number for scheduling.
United Gastroenterology Associates – Cypress Office
Cypress office – Northwest Freeway (US-290)
- Address: 21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640, Cypress, TX 77429
- Phone: (346) 340-4414
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (closed 12:00–1:30 PM for lunch; last appointment 4:30 PM)
United Gastroenterology Associates – Katy Office
Katy office – Katy Freeway (I-10) near the Grand Parkway
- Address: 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494
- Phone: (346) 340-4414
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (closed 12:00–1:30 PM for lunch; last appointment 4:30 PM)
Insurance and Self-Pay Options
United Gastroenterology Associates accepts most major insurance plans. Insurance coverage, benefits and patient responsibility vary by plan and should be verified before treatment or procedures; the office can help you check your benefits. Self-pay options are available.
A carrier logo does not guarantee coverage for a specific plan or service. Call (346) 340-4414 to confirm your benefits.
What Patients Say About Dr. Khan
These reviews were shared by patients of United Gastroenterology Associates and are published on the practice website.
“Dr. Khan is an exceptionally kind and compassionate physician. He truly listens to his patients and takes the time to explain everything clearly and thoroughly. His treatment plans are straightforward and easy to understand, and he provides a very personalized, attentive level of care. I felt respected, heard, and genuinely cared for throughout my visit.”
Maria Andreina Behrens · Katy
“Dr. Khan is an amazing physician. He is so kind hearted & wants to help you in every way possible. He listens & doesn’t make you feel rushed. I feel so comfortable talking to him about anything. I am so glad to have him as my gastro doctor. His staff is outstanding as well. Shout out to Dr. Khan & his staff.”
Donna LaPlante · Cypress
“Dr Kahn and his staff are AWESOME. He is thorough, kind, listens and puts you at ease. The staff are patient and very helpful. I was so afraid of having a colonscopy. Dr Kahn was wonderful. My procedure went so well. It was over and done with in what seemed like a minute! So expect that! Dr Kahn is excellent, I trust him completely. And I recommend him, and his staff.”
Steph Apie · Fulshear
Hemorrhoid and Rectal Health Guides
Learn more about hemorrhoids, bowel habits, rectal bleeding and colon health in these patient guides from United Gastroenterology Associates.
Diet and Lifestyle
Related Conditions
Colonoscopy Near You
Hemorrhoid Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid care in Katy and Cypress.
What is the best treatment for hemorrhoids?
There is no single best treatment. Most hemorrhoids improve with more fiber, enough fluids, less straining and short-term topical care. Internal hemorrhoids that keep bleeding or prolapsing may be treated with an office-based procedure such as rubber band ligation, and severe cases may need surgery.
Do hemorrhoids go away on their own?
Many do. Mild hemorrhoid symptoms often settle within a week or two with home care, but hemorrhoids can return, and bleeding that persists or comes back should be evaluated.
Is rectal bleeding always from hemorrhoids?
No. Hemorrhoids are a common cause, but anal fissures, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer can also cause bleeding. A gastroenterologist can help find the source.
How long do hemorrhoids take to heal?
Mild flare-ups often improve within a few days to two weeks. A thrombosed hemorrhoid usually becomes less painful after several days. Your doctor can give a timeline for your situation and treatment.
When do I need a colonoscopy for rectal bleeding?
A colonoscopy may be recommended if you are 45 or older or due for screening, have a family history of colorectal cancer, have dark or unexplained bleeding, anemia, weight loss or a change in bowel habits, or if bleeding continues despite treatment.
Are hemorrhoids dangerous?
Usually not. Hemorrhoids are common and rarely cause serious problems, but heavy bleeding, bleeding with dizziness or weakness, or severe pain needs prompt care. Call 911 for heavy bleeding or fainting.
How can I prevent hemorrhoids?
Eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, stay active, avoid straining and limit time sitting on the toilet. Treating constipation or diarrhea early also helps.
Do I need a referral to see a hemorrhoid specialist?
Many patients can schedule directly. Some insurance plans require a referral, so contact the office to confirm based on your plan.
Where can I get hemorrhoid treatment near me?
Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan treats hemorrhoids at 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 555, Katy, TX 77494 and 21216 Northwest Freeway, Suite 640, Cypress, TX 77429. Call (346) 340-4414 to schedule.
Need a Gastroenterology Appointment?
United Gastroenterology Associates welcomes new patients at our Katy and Cypress offices. Send a request and our team will contact you to schedule, or call (346) 340-4414.
- Board-certified gastroenterologist & hepatologist
- Most major insurance plans accepted
- Katy and Cypress locations
- Convenient access for Fulshear patients at the Katy office
- Colonoscopy and endoscopy available when clinically appropriate
Request an Appointment
Tell us how to reach you. Please do not include detailed medical information; we will discuss your symptoms when we call.
Prefer to book yourself? Use our online scheduler. Insurance coverage, benefits and patient responsibility vary by plan and should be verified before treatment or procedures. View insurance information. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Sources
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Hemorrhoids. niddk.nih.gov
- American College of Gastroenterology. Hemorrhoids. gi.org
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Colorectal Cancer: Screening. uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org
This page provides general educational information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional. Chest pain can have heart-related causes; call 911 for chest pain with shortness of breath, sweating, or pain spreading to the arm or jaw. For a medical emergency, call 911. Content reviewed by United Gastroenterology Associates, PLLC. Last updated September 30, 2026.