Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum or anus and may be caused by straining during bowel movements, constipation, sitting for long periods of time, anal infections and certain diseases, such as liver cirrhosis.
Hemorrhoids are very common, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. They result from increased pressure in the veins of the anus. The pressure causes the veins to swell, making them painful, particularly when you are sitting.
Hemorrhoids may be located inside the anus, at the beginning of the rectum (internal hemorrhoids), or they may develop at the anal opening and may hang outside the anus (external hemorrhoids).
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a Virginia Mason gastroenterologist,
call (206) 223-2319.
A doctor can often diagnose hemorrhoids simply by examining the rectal area. If necessary, tests that may help diagnose the problem include:
Fortunately, there are many effective options available to treat hemorrhoids. Most people can get relief from symptoms by making lifestyle changes and using home treatments, like these:
If your hemorrhoids do not get better with home treatments, and you are experiencing persistent bleeding or pain, your doctor may recommend a procedure called rubber band ligation or a surgical hemorrhoidectomy.
The blood in the swollen vein may form clots, and the surrounding tissue can die. Surgery is often needed to remove hemorrhoids with clots.
Severe bleeding may also occur. Iron deficiency anemia can result from long-term blood loss. Significant bleeding from hemorrhoids is unusual, however.
Be sure to call your doctor if hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve with home treatment or if you have rectal bleeding. Your doctor may want to check for other, more serious causes of the bleeding.
Call 911 if you lose a lot of blood, or if you are bleeding and feel dizzy, lightheaded or faint.
To prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements that raise your risk for hemorrhoids, you should:
Get more information, or schedule an appointment with a Virginia Mason gastroenterologist, by calling (206) 223-2319.