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Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids—also known as piles— are swollen veins located in the lower rectum and anus. These veins swell due to pressure, which causes them to become irritated and stretched during a bowel movement.
What are the Types of Hemorrhoids?
Multiple sources conclude that about 50 percent of adults experience hemorrhoid symptoms by age 50, that the condition is common among those between ages 45 and 65, and more common in men than women. In addition, women are more likely to experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy. It should be noted, however, that anyone can develop hemorrhoids, including children and adults in optimal health.
Hemorrhoids are referred to by location: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless, as they are located deeply enough in the rectum where there are fewer pain-sensitive nerves. As a result, they cannot be seen or felt, (though they may slip down and protrude outside the anus). Otherwise, they are apparent only with bleeding during a bowel movement.
External hemorrhoids visibly surround the anus and can be felt as lumps. If they swell significantly, they can lead to thrombosis (clotting of blood), which makes symptoms worse, particularly the pain.
What are the Causes of Hemorrhoids?
The cause of hemorrhoids is primarily increased pressure in the lower abdomen. This can be the result of the following:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Holding breath during physical exertion
- Chronic constipation or acute and chronic diarrhea
- Low-fiber diet
- Anal intercourse
- Coughing, sneezing, or vomiting
What are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:
- Swelling in the anus area
- Lump(s) located in the area of the anus that may be painful or itchy
- Pain or itching during bowel movements
- Bright red blood with bowel movements
- Fecal leakage
How are Hemorrhoids Treated?
There are many ways to effectively treat hemorrhoids. Medications for mild cases of hemorrhoids include over-the-counter creams or suppositories to relieve pain and itching, as well as laxatives when indicated. However, patients should consult a physician for any extended use of these products.
In addition, there are preventive lifestyle measures patients can take, including a diet with sufficient fiber, drinking plenty of water, and getting exercise.
At Digestive Healthcare Center (DHC), our physicians specialize in various treatment techniques for managing hemorrhoids, including a non-surgical technique known as hemorrhoidal banding. This procedure ties off the hemorrhoids to cut off the blood flow painlessly.
Meet Our Doctors
Our Gastroenterology Centers in NJ
Hillsborough, NJ
511 Courtyard Drive Bldg. 500
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Somerville, NJ
Warren, NJ
31 Mountain Boulevard Suite H
Warren, NJ 07059
Recent Blogs
Learn more about all things digestive health and wellness by checking out our recent gastroenterology blogs.
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What is Colorectal Cancer? At Digestive Healthcare Center, our team of expert gastroenterologists strives to ensure that patients have all the information they need to promote long term digestive health. In the case of certain gastroenterological conditions such as colorectal cancer, screening is incredibly important. Colorectal cancer starts in the colon (large intestine) or rectum. […]
What is Gastroparesis? At Digestive Healthcare Center, we want to ensure that patients have information about an array of digestive health conditions, to promote positive gastrointestinal health year-round. One such condition is gastroparesis, which is a digestive condition that affects the motility of the muscles in your stomach. Normally, after you swallow, the muscles within […]
Relief for Hemorrhoid Symptoms in NJ at Digestive Healthcare Center
Hemorrhoids are a very common occurrence, and if you are experiencing uncomfortable or concerning hemorrhoid symptoms, our team will work to help you find relief. We provide hemorrhoidal banding services at our three gastroenterology centers in NJ, giving those in the area convenient access to comprehensive gastroenterology care. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.