You don’t have to sit still for hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common issue and having them is nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, by age 50 about 50% of all people will experience hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids occur when the veins or blood vessels in and around your anus and lower rectum become swollen and irritated. Hemorrhoids are often a result of straining during bowel movements or from having chronic constipation or diarrhea. Many women also get hemorrhoids from pregnancy and childbirth. The pressure of carrying a baby in your abdomen strains the blood vessels in your pelvic area.

Symptoms typically include pain and itching, which can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications. For some people, drinking adequate amounts of water, eating a high fiber diet and taking over-the-counter remedies are enough to treat hemorrhoids. However, it is time to see a doctor when the pain or itching is severe, you experience rectal bleeding, feel a lump or if you are experiencing recurrent hemorrhoids.

A surgeon can remove these painful, swollen veins with a procedure called a hemorrhoidectomy. During this common procedure, the doctor makes small incisions around the anus to remove the hemorrhoids. It is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day, performed under local or general anesthesia.

Talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP) about your condition to see if you should see a specialist.

Patient results may vary. Consults your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.