Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in or near your anus. They’re similar to varicose veins in that they bulge noticeably from the body. These swollen veins can develop inside your rectum or outside your body, on the skin near your anal opening.
While many people are hesitant to discuss hemorrhoids because they find them embarrassing, they’re extremely common. Around half of all Americans experience hemorrhoids by the time they turn 50.
If you notice blood or experience anal discomfort, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at GI Physicians Inc. to get care for your hemorrhoid.
Swelling in hemorrhoids occurs when the veins around the lower rectum or anus become inflamed and enlarged. Hemorrhoids are essentially swollen blood vessels, and this swelling can lead to discomfort, itching, and pain. The swelling is typically caused by increased pressure in these veins, which can happen due to straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, or other factors like pregnancy or chronic constipation. The swollen area may appear as a small lump around the anus (external hemorrhoids) or can develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids). Depending on the severity, the swelling can range from mild irritation to more significant pain and inflammation.
Pain from hemorrhoids typically results from the pressure and irritation caused by the swollen veins in the rectal area. External hemorrhoids, in particular, can be painful when inflamed or if a blood clot forms inside the hemorrhoid, leading to a condition called thrombosed hemorrhoids. This pain is often sharp and worsens with sitting, moving, or during bowel movements. Internal hemorrhoids generally cause less pain but can become painful if they prolapse (push through the anus) or become irritated. The pain can vary in intensity, from mild discomfort to more severe throbbing, depending on the size, location, and degree of inflammation.
Itching associated with hemorrhoids, also known as pruritus ani, occurs when the swollen veins around the anus cause irritation to the surrounding skin. This happens because hemorrhoids can lead to mucus leakage, moisture buildup, or even mild fecal leakage, which can irritate the sensitive skin around the anus. The inflammation of the hemorrhoids themselves can also contribute to the itching. Scratching can worsen the irritation, leading to more discomfort or even minor skin damage. The itching can be persistent or intermittent, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids.
Bleeding is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, particularly internal ones. It typically occurs during or after a bowel movement when the swollen veins in the rectal area are irritated or damaged by straining or passing stool. The blood is usually bright red, indicating it’s fresh and coming from the lower part of the digestive tract. You may notice it on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on the surface of the stool itself. While hemorrhoid-related bleeding is usually not severe, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.
When activities and movements put pressure on your rectum, it stresses the veins in the area, which can lead to hemorrhoids. Some of the most common causes of this pressure — and resulting hemorrhoids — include:
In many cases, the cause of hemorrhoids remains unknown. But that doesn’t limit the team at GI Physicians Inc. Even if your hemorrhoid cause is undetermined, they can still apply effective care.
Home care effectively resolves some hemorrhoids. A high fiber diet, soaking in a warm tub, and taking a pain relief medication may be all you need.
If your hemorrhoids are persistent, the team at GI Physicians Inc. offers hemorrhoid banding. During this treatment, they wrap a rubber band around the hemorrhoid. This cuts off circulation, causing it to wither and fall off. This minimally invasive treatment has proven extremely effective.
Don’t let embarrassment keep you from the hemorrhoid care you need. To get relief, don’t wait to call GI Physicians Inc., or request your appointment online today.
