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Hemorrhoids

What Are Hemorrhoids?​

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum or anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). Hemorrhoids are common and often result from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting. While they can be uncomfortable, hemorrhoids are usually not serious and can be treated effectively.

Types of Hemorrhoids​

Internal Hemorrhoids: These occur inside the rectum and are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.

External Hemorrhoids: These occur under the skin around the anus and can cause pain, swelling, and itching. In some cases, a blood clot can form, leading to a painful condition called thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids​

The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:

Bleeding: Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.

Itching or Irritation: Discomfort in the anal area.

Pain or Discomfort: Particularly with external hemorrhoids or thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Swelling: A lump near the anus that may be tender or painful.

Prolapse: Internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anus, causing discomfort.

If you experience persistent symptoms, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the best course of treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors​

Hemorrhoids develop due to increased pressure in the lower rectum, which can be caused by:

Straining During Bowel Movements: Often due to constipation or diarrhea.

Prolonged Sitting: Especially on the toilet.

Pregnancy: The increased pressure from the uterus can lead to hemorrhoids.

Obesity: Excess weight adds pressure to the rectal area.

Low-Fiber Diet: This can lead to straining during bowel movements.

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids typically involves a physical examination by a doctor. The doctor may use the following techniques to diagnose the condition:

Visual Inspection: External hemorrhoids can be diagnosed by examining the anus and surrounding tissue.

Digital Rectal Exam: For internal hemorrhoids, a digital rectal exam may be performed to feel for swollen veins.

Anoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: In some cases, a scope may be used to look inside the anus and rectum for internal hemorrhoids or other issues.

Treatments for Hemorrhoids

At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer a range of treatment options for hemorrhoids, depending on their severity.

Lifestyle Changes: Increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help alleviate symptoms and prevent hemorrhoids from recurring.

Medications: Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can reduce itching, pain, and swelling.

Minimally Invasive Procedures: For more severe cases, minimally invasive treatments include:

Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off circulation, causing it to shrink and fall off.

Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid to shrink it.

Coagulation Therapy: Heat, laser, or infrared light is used to shrink internal hemorrhoids.

Surgical Options: For severe hemorrhoids or thrombosed hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be required. Surgical options include:

Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids.

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: A procedure that staples prolapsed hemorrhoids back into place.

What Happens If Left Untreated?​

If left untreated, hemorrhoids can become more painful and may lead to complications such as thrombosis (blood clots), infection, or prolapse of internal hemorrhoids. Chronic bleeding from hemorrhoids can also lead to anemia. While hemorrhoids are usually not life-threatening, untreated symptoms can significantly affect quality of life.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids and are seeking treatment, contact Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics to schedule a consultation. Our expert team is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

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