Hemorrhoids Specialist

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that form inside your rectum or beneath the skin around your anus. They’re similar to varicose veins and make it uncomfortable to sit down for extended periods. About three in four adults will experience hemorrhoids during their lifetime. Though painful, they’re relatively easy to treat.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Anal itching and irritation
• Pain and discomfort
• Bleeding
• Swelling
• A hard lump near your anus

Most hemorrhoids resolve on their own with rest and at-home care. If you experience bleeding after bowel movements or your pain lasts longer than a few days, make an appointment at North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC.

What causes hemorrhoids?

The veins in and near your anus are incredibly flexible, but they tend to bulge and swell under stress. Things that increase the stress on your lower rectum include straining during bowel movements, regular heavy lifting, and being overweight.

Other things that increase your risk of hemorrhoids include pregnancy, chronic constipation, and eating a low-fiber diet.

How can I lower my risk of hemorrhoids?

The best way to lower your risk of hemorrhoids is to drink plenty of water and eat a high-fiber diet. The softer your bowel movements, the easier they are to pass.

You can also benefit from:

• Taking fiber supplements
• Regular exercise
• Going to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge
• Not straining

It’s important to take frequent breaks throughout your workday — long periods of sitting put excess pressure on the veins in and near your anus.

How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?

To diagnose hemorrhoids, North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC reviews your health history, asks you about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. External hemorrhoids can be easily seen during an exam. Internal hemorrhoids can usually only be found using a digital rectal exam or colonoscopy.

How are hemorrhoids treated?

The treatment for hemorrhoids depends on how many you have, where they are, and how severe your symptoms are. Typically, North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC recommends home remedies like taking over-the-counter pain medication, using topical ointments, and soaking in a warm bath.

If these measures don’t provide relief and stop rectal bleeding, you could benefit from a prescription medication or a minimally invasive procedure like rubber band ligation (banding). During banding, your doctor wraps a tiny rubber band around each of the hemorrhoids. The rubber bands cut off circulation to the hemorrhoid, causing it to wither and fall off. Learn more about the O'Reagan Banding System here.

To receive treatment for hemorrhoids, request a consultation at North Texas Gastroenterology Associates PLLC. Call the nearest office to speak with a team member, or book online today.