Hemorrhoids Specialist

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your lower rectum or anus. They are like varicose veins that develop under the skin around your anal area. 

Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside your rectum that can protrude out through your anus. External hemorrhoids are swollen veins you can see or feel underneath the skin near your anal canal. They look like small bulges. 

Hemorrhoids are common, affecting almost 75% of adults at some point. Treatment can enhance healing, relieve symptoms, and reduce your risk of complications. 

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Common signs and symptoms associated with hemorrhoids include:

• Pain
• Irritation
• Anal itching
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Hard lumps
• Leakage of stool or mucus

You might experience small amounts of bright red blood when you wipe after a bowel movement or a protruding hemorrhoid that pushes through your anal opening.

Complications that can occur because of untreated hemorrhoids include anemia, blood clots, or strangulated hemorrhoids that cause extreme pain.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Common causes and risk factors associated with hemorrhoids include:

• Bowel movement straining
• Sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Obesity
• Ongoing constipation or diarrhea
• Pregnancy
• A low-fiber diet
• Heavy lifting
• Anal intercourse

Your risk of developing hemorrhoids increases with age, as tissues that support rectum and anus veins may stretch and become weak.

To reduce your risk of getting hemorrhoids, eat healthy foods rich in fiber, drink plenty of fluids, and take fiber supplements if your doctor recommends it. Aim for at least 20-30 grams of fiber per day. Don’t strain with bowel movements, maintain a healthy weight, and don’t sit too long on the toilet. 

How does my doctor diagnose hemorrhoids?

To diagnose hemorrhoids and develop an effective treatment plan, your Premier Surgical specialist reviews your medical history and symptoms. They evaluate your rectum and anus and complete a digital rectal examination.

Your specialist may view the inside of your rectum using a specialized scope sometimes with a camera attached to it.

What are common hemorrhoid treatments?

Common treatments for hemorrhoids are as follows:

Home remedies

Things you can do at home for hemorrhoid relief include eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods. Soak in a warm bath regularly and take oral pain relievers as needed. If your symptoms persist or are severe, visit Premier Surgical.

Medications

If you have mild hemorrhoids, your specialist may recommend you try over-the-counter ointments, creams, pads, or suppositories. 

Rubber band ligation

During rubber band ligation, your specialist ties tiny CRH O’Regan System® rubber bands around the base of hemorrhoids to cut off the circulation. Doing so makes hemorrhoids fall off within about a week. The procedure is 99% effective. 

Injections

Sclerotherapy uses injections to shrink hemorrhoids, making them less severe or painful.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment uses light energy to harden hemorrhoids, shrink them, and cause them to disappear over time.

Surgery

If you have painful hemorrhoids, experience persistent bleeding, or other treatments haven’t worked, your Premier Surgical provider can use minimally invasive surgery, including THD, to remove a hemorrhoid or alter it by blocking its flow.

Don’t live with pain, irritation, or bleeding associated with hemorrhoids. Call the Premier Surgical office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.