Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. They are common during pregnancy and after childbirth, but they can also occur in people who sit for long periods of time or strain during bowel movements.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Pain or discomfort

• Itching or irritation

• Swelling or inflammation

• Bleeding during bowel movements

• A lump near the anus

Causes

The exact cause of hemorrhoids is unknown, but several factors can increase your risk of developing them. These include:

• Pregnancy

• Obesity

• Straining during bowel movements

• Sitting for long periods of time

• A family history of hemorrhoids

Treatment

The treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the severity of your symptoms. Mild cases can be treated with over-the-counter creams and ointments that relieve pain and itching. You can also try soaking in a warm bath or using a sitz bath to reduce inflammation.

For more severe cases, We may recommend a procedure to remove the hemorrhoid. This can be done in several ways, including:

• Rubber band ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply.

• Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid to shrink it.

• Infrared coagulation: A special device is used to burn the hemorrhoid tissue.

• Hemorrhoidectomy: The hemorrhoid is surgically removed.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids by:

• Eating a high-fiber diet

• Drinking plenty of water

• Exercising regularly

• Avoiding straining during bowel movements

• Taking breaks from sitting for long periods of time

If you are pregnant, talk to us about ways to prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy. We may recommend eating more fiber, drinking more water, and doing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles.

Author

Kortney Jones, ARNP

Kortney Jones is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She provides OB/GYN services, including birth control, pregnancy and prenatal care, and infertility, as well as gynecological services, such as women’s health and wellness, abnormal uterine bleeding, weight loss, pellet hormone therapy, and menopause.