Hemorrhoids are common, affecting nearly everybody at some point within their lifetime. They diagnose and treat hemorrhoids using conservative and surgical techniques. Call Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia for an appointment today. Hemorrhoids are inflamed, swollen veins around your lower rectum or anus. They often occur as a result of constipation or straining during bowel movements and are common with pregnancy and increasing age.
Hemorrhoid symptoms usually subside within a few days on their own, but if they persist or you experience pain or rectal bleeding, see your gastroenterologist for treatment. Rectal pain or discomfort Rectal itching or irritation Painful bowel movements Anal swelling or inflammation A hard lump near your anus Bright red blood from your rectum.
Sometimes severe pain can develop as a result of external hemorrhoids that form blood clots. Anybody can develop hemorrhoids from time to time, but the following factors increase your risk of developing them:. Older age Obesity Chronic constipation or diarrhea Sitting for a long time on a toilet Straining during bowel movements Pregnancy A low-fiber diet Heavy lifting Anal intercourse. Increasing your fiber intake, drinking lots of water, eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not straining during bowel movements are a few ways you can lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids.
To help diagnose hemorrhoids, your gastroenterologist reviews your symptoms and medical history. They examine the affected area, and if you have hemorrhoids, they recommend one or more of the following treatments:. Sometimes treating hemorrhoids at home is enough to relieve your symptoms.
You might try topical hemorrhoid creams, suppositories, ointments, or pads, or soaking in a warm bath several times daily. Over-the-counter pain relievers help reduce discomfort, too. If you experience a painful blood clot with hemorrhoids, your gastroenterologist can remove it under local anesthesia to give you immediate relief.
