Hemorrhoids are very common, affecting millions of people in the United States. Most individuals with hemorrhoids suffer from their discomfort for a long time before seeking help. The experts at Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists in North Wantagh, and South Wantagh, New York, offer hemorrhoid treatment options to help you get relief quickly. End the suffering; call the office or schedule your hemorrhoid appointment online today.
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins that form around the anus and lower rectum. The rectum is the last section of your digestive tract and is responsible for holding and eliminating stool.
When performing these functions, the rectal and anal tissue stretches, which also stretches the blood vessels. Over time, the blood vessels widen and the walls weaken, leading to the enlarged protruding veins.
Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists classifies hemorrhoids as internal or external:
Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the lower part of the rectum. These hemorrhoids cause no pain, but they may bleed during a bowel movement.
However, if you have a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid — a hemorrhoid that protrudes through the anus ― you may feel severe pain.
External hemorrhoids are swollen veins near the anus. These hemorrhoids may itch, cause pain, or bleed.
An external hemorrhoid may also form a blood clot, causing a painful thrombosed hemorrhoid.
Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of hemorrhoids, but a leading theory is that they develop from excess pressure on the veins. Factors that may contribute to this excess pressure include:
Your risk of getting hemorrhoids increases as you get older.
You can treat hemorrhoids at home using over-the-counter (OTC) hemorrhoid creams or wipes, increasing fluid and fiber intake, and soaking your hemorrhoids in a warm bath for 10-20 minutes a day.
However, you should seek medical help for your hemorrhoids if your at-home care fails to improve your hemorrhoids within a week. Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists also recommends scheduling a consultation if your hemorrhoids cause severe pain or rectal bleeding.
Your provider at Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists customizes your hemorrhoid treatment plan based on hemorrhoid type and symptoms.
Treatment might include:
Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists also offers hemorrhoid treatments, including infrared coagulation (IRC) for small and medium-sized hemorrhoids.
During IRC, your gastroenterologist uses infrared light energy to create a scar at the site of your hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists recommends 2-3 IRC sessions to get the best results.
For expert hemorrhoid care, call Long Island Gastroenterology Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.