Few health problems are as common and as rarely discussed as hemorrhoids. The itching, burning, pain or bleeding can disrupt sitting, exercising and sleeping, yet many people wait months before asking for help because they feel embarrassed. The good news is that most hemorrhoids can be treated effectively, and you have more options than you may think.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and around the anus. They are a normal part of anatomy, but they become a problem when they enlarge or become inflamed. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and often cause painless bleeding. External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and can cause pain, swelling and itching. If a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid, it is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid and can be suddenly and intensely painful.
Who Is Affected and Why
Hemorrhoids affect adults of all ages, and they are especially common between ages 45 and 65. Pregnancy is another frequent cause because of pressure on pelvic veins. Common contributors include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods
- Low-fiber diets
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Heavy lifting and excess body weight
Home Care and Lifestyle Changes
For mild to moderate symptoms, conservative care is the first step. Clinical guidelines consistently recommend increasing dietary fiber and fluids, and research shows fiber supplements reduce symptoms and bleeding in many people. These habits help:
- Eat 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily from fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
- Drink enough water throughout the day to keep stools soft.
- Avoid straining and do not sit on the toilet for long periods.
- Take warm sitz baths for 10 to 15 minutes after bowel movements.
- Stay active, since regular walking supports healthy digestion.
Over-the-counter creams, ointments and suppositories can ease itching and discomfort for a short time. Products containing steroids should generally not be used for more than about a week unless a clinician advises it, since they can thin the skin.
Most hemorrhoids improve with simple changes to diet, fluids and bathroom habits.
Office Procedures
When home care is not enough, several minimally invasive procedures can treat internal hemorrhoids. Rubber band ligation places a small band at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, and it is one of the most widely used treatments. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution that shrinks the tissue. Infrared coagulation uses heat to do something similar. These are usually done without general anesthesia, and most people return to normal activity quickly, though some mild discomfort or spotting can occur.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is reserved for large, persistent or severe hemorrhoids, or when other treatments have failed. A hemorrhoidectomy removes the problem tissue and has the highest rate of long-term success, though recovery is longer and more uncomfortable. Other surgical approaches, such as stapled hemorrhoidopexy, may be considered in selected cases. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid can sometimes be drained or removed shortly after the pain begins, which may bring faster relief.
When to See a Doctor
Rectal bleeding should never be assumed to be from hemorrhoids alone. Colorectal cancer, polyps and inflammatory bowel disease can cause similar symptoms. Seek medical evaluation if you notice bleeding, symptoms lasting more than a week despite home care, changes in bowel habits, or severe pain. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, dizziness or fainting.
You do not have to live with discomfort or wonder what is causing it. If you are in the Lancaster, CA area and have questions about hemorrhoid symptoms, contact the practice at (661) 579-6088 to talk through your concerns and next steps.