What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen or inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause pain, discomfort, and a variety of other symptoms. While a common health issue, hemorrhoids can often cause concern for many, as extreme discomfort and bleeding may occur. According to the National Institutes of Health, hemorrhoids affect 1 in 20 Americans, with about half of adults over age 50 currently having the condition.

Despite their common occurrence, many individuals may feel hesitant or even embarrassed to discuss or seek treatment for hemorrhoids. However, it is important to remember that hemorrhoids are natural and part of human anatomy. Open and honest conversations about your health can help doctors diagnose and treat hemorrhoids before symptoms worsen.

Here, we will explore the details of hemorrhoids, from development to treatment, and provide information and guidance for those experiencing this condition. 

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Typically located near your lower rectum and anus area, hemorrhoids present themselves as swollen or bulging veins appearing internally or externally. While internal hemorrhoids are usually attached to the walls of the anal cavity, external hemorrhoids protrude outside of the anus. Both internal and external hemorrhoids can contribute to symptoms like itching, burning, bleeding, pain and swelling. This can make even the simplest of activities like sitting uncomfortable. Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including: 

Straining during bowel movements: Chronic constipation can often cause straining when attempting a bowel movement. This increased pressure can cause the veins to become engorged and inflamed. Excessive straining over time can cause enlargement of the veins leading to symptoms. 

‍Pregnancy and childbirth: The increased weight of the uterus during pregnancy can put pressure on the veins in the lower rectum area. In conjunction with bodily changes from pregnancy, childbirth can cause increased pressure and straining, causing hemorrhoids. 

Aging: The tissues supporting the rectum and anus can weaken with age and lose elasticity, causing the body to be less resilient in recovering from strain and pressure. 

Chronic diarrhea: Diarrhea can irritate the tissues around the anus, causing inflammation that contributes to the development of hemorrhoids. 

Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure not only on the body but on the veins in the rectum and anus. This excess weight can also increase the possibility of straining when carrying out everyday activities and increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. 

Straining or heavy lifting: Activities involving heavy lifting or strain put pressure on the veins in the area, increasing blood flow and causing veins to swell and become inflamed. 

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Depending on the severity of hemorrhoids, many people often consider hemorrhoid symptoms to be alarming. While pain is usually the first and foremost symptom experienced by those with hemorrhoids, a myriad of symptoms may include:

Anal or rectal bleeding: When instances of increased pressure or strain occur, inflamed veins can often burst or pop, causing bleeding from the rectum or anus. Instances of blood are frequently discovered through bright red blood streaks on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. 

Itching or burning: Inflammation to veins can often affect the surrounding nerves, causing itching or burning sensations. 

Pain: Hemorrhoid pain is commonly categorized as a side effect of external hemorrhoids or making a bowel movement. When excess pressure is placed on sensitive hemorrhoids either through sitting or through a passing bowel movement, pain can increase instantly.

Lumps or bumps: External hemorrhoids can often appear as lumps or bumps around the anus. 

Prolapse: Prolapse occurs when the internal hemorrhoids become large enough to protrude after a bowel movement. This is different than external hemorrhoids, as the tissues either spontaneously retract or can be manually pushed inward. 

Thrombosed hemorrhoids: A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when a hemorrhoid becomes engorged with blood and the blood then clots causing a great deal of pain and swelling, typically externally. This is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care for hemorrhoids. 

Leakage: Hemorrhoids can interfere with proper sphincter function leading to leakage or a mucus discharge.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to see your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and to exclude other gastrointestinal conditions. If you are having trouble passing a bowel movement or are experiencing dark-colored, severe, or consistent bleeding, visit a doctor immediately or seek urgent help. 

Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Treatment for hemorrhoids usually depends on the severity of your condition. In mild cases of hemorrhoids, at-home treatment, over-the-counter medication, and lifestyle changes are very effective in managing symptoms. More severe cases of hemorrhoids often require medical treatments such as surgery or injections. 

Home remedies for relieving mild cases of hemorrhoids are: 

Dietary changes: A high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation and allow bowel movements to pass more easily. Easier bowel movements reduce strain on the veins in the rectum and anus, preventing the development or worsening of hemorrhoids and allowing them to heal. 

Lifestyle changes: Avoiding prolonged sitting and exercising regularly reduces obesity and weight gain, minimizing the amount of pressure on your rectum and anus.

Over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter creams and suppositories can be used to treat and relieve pain, itching, and swelling

Medical treatments for treating severe cases of hemorrhoids are:

Rubber band ligation: Similar to the processes involved in removing skin tags, doctors will use medical-grade rubber bands or string to tie off a hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and fall off due to lost blood flow. 

Infrared Coagulation (IRC): This procedure uses an infrared light heat source to coagulate the hemorrhoidal vessels.

Laser: Similar to infrared coagulation this method uses a laser heat source to coagulate the hemorrhoidal vessels.

Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy requires doctors to inject a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. 

Hemorrhoidectomy: Typically reserved for only the most severe cases of hemorrhoids, a hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure where the hemorrhoid is cut off and removed entirely. 

Prevention and Management of Hemorrhoids

Preventing and managing hemorrhoids can be made simply through lifestyle changes and healthy habits. By maintaining a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, you can prevent constipation and reduce strain on the rectum and anus. Incorporating healthy habits such as exercising regularly can help promote healthy bowel movements and strengthen pelvic floor muscles to support the veins in the area. 

If you have been diagnosed with hemorrhoids or experience any of the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids, visit a doctor for an evaluation and to get recommendations for home remedies and over-the-counter treatment options. Listen to your body for persistent symptoms and inform your doctor of any pain or worsening conditions you might be experiencing. 

Explore Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Options With Dr. Ernest Castro, M.D.

As the premier destination for colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, and non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment in Denver, Colorado, Dr. Castro and his team of medical professionals strive to deliver personalized care for adult patients seeking hemorrhoid relief. Dr. Castro offers a painless and gentle solution for hemorrhoid treatment.

As experienced and trusted medical professionals with an emphasis on bedside manner, we want our patients to feel comfortable discussing their health and hemorrhoidal issues. Don’t let hemorrhoids interfere with your quality of life.. Visit our website today to request an appointment, or call us at (720) 868-3111.