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.
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.
The cause of hemorrhoids is primarily increased pressure in the lower abdomen. This can be the result of the following:
Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:
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.
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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.
We are proud to offer telemedicine care to patients throughout NJ, allowing patients to consult with one of our expert gastroenterologists via a two-way video call. Setting up and completing a telemedicine visit is extremely simple, and all you need to do to get started is give one of our offices a call or contact us by filling out a form.