Hemorrhoids
If you’ve ever felt discomfort or noticed unusual symptoms like itching, pain, or bleeding after a bowel movement, you’re not alone. Hemorrhoids — commonly referred to as piles — are a condition many people experience but rarely talk about. They occur when veins in the rectum or anus become swollen due to pressure from straining, prolonged sitting, obesity, or pregnancy.
While they can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing to discuss, hemorrhoids are incredibly common, especially among adults over 50. Understanding the condition and knowing that effective treatments are available can help you find relief and get back to feeling like yourself.
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Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Not everyone with hemorrhoids experiences symptoms. When they do, symptoms can cause physical discomfort and emotional stress. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any bleeding.
The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:
- Discomfort
- Itching
- Pain around the anal region
- Bleeding during bowel movements
Internal Hemorrhoids
Symptoms: Painless bleeding, with bright red streaks on toilet paper. Severe cases may involve prolapse, where the hemorrhoid protrudes outside the anus.
Located inside the rectum, internal hemorrhoids are usually painless due to fewer pain-sensing nerves. However, they can cause painless bleeding or protrusion during bowel movements:
- May lead to bright red blood in the bowl after a bowel movement
- Can become irritated or prolapsed, especially with straining or chronic constipation
- Often go unnoticed until symptoms like bleeding or bulging occur (the sooner you take action, the better)
Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids
Treatment varies depending on severity, ranging from home remedies to surgical procedures. Lifestyle changes, such as increasing dietary fiber and fluids, soaking in warm baths, and using hemorrhoid creams or suppositories, can often alleviate symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also reduce pain and swelling.
For persistent cases, medical interventions like rubber band ligation — a procedure that cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to fall off — may be necessary.
Contact Us for Relief from Hemorrhoids
At United Vein & Vascular Centers, we understand the discomfort and challenges caused by hemorrhoids, and we are here to provide advanced, minimally invasive solutions to improve your quality of life. Our Nationally IAC accredited facilities reflect our commitment to excellence and the highest standards of care.
Our team is available to address your questions, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps toward relief. Don’t let hemorrhoids disrupt your life any longer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the treatment options available to help you feel like yourself again.