Hemorrhoids are so common that half of all adults – men and women alike – are expected to have hemorrhoids by the time they reach 50 years of age.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are blood vessels that swell or become enlarged either inside or outside the anus. Inflammation typically occurs when the tissue that supports the blood vessels in the area become weak and overstretched.
Signs & Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can cause itching, pain, swelling, bleeding, and general discomfort in the anus and rectum area.
Who Is at Risk of Developing Hemorrhoids?
There are a number of factors that increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids. These include:
- Adults 45 and older
- Anal intercourse
- Chronic diarrhea
- Chronic constipation
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Sitting for long periods of time
- Standing for long periods of time
- Straining during bowel movements – such as when constipated
If you notice blood in your stool, or if you experience significant or chronic pain during defecation, contact your doctor for an exam.
Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids
In minor, occasional cases, over-the-counter inflammation-reducing medication can relieve hemorrhoid symptoms. There are a number of lifestyle changes that can also reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids, including consuming adequate fiber and fluids, regular exercise, and avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time.
To be rid of significant or chronic pain related to hemorrhoids, there is an easy, in-office procedure that can remove the hemorrhoid – without surgery. Hemorrhoidal banding destroys hemorrhoidal tissue by cutting off blood flow to it. This procedure can be done for patients with internal hemorrhoids.
If you have hemorrhoids that are causing you severe or chronic problems, consider treatment by our GI professionals at inSite Digestive Health Care, now Unio Specialty Care, an affiliate of Unio Health Partners. We can help determine whether you’re a good candidate for treatments such as hemorrhoid banding. Contact the location nearest you to find out how we can help.