Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum that can be irritated and inflamed, resulting to pain and itching. In some cases, there can also be bleeding during a bowel movement.
They are very common and affect people of all ages. Hemorrhoids can develop as a result of obesity, pregnancy, and constant straining during bowel movements. Although hemorrhoids are not life-threatening, they can be a great source of discomfort.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of hemorrhoids depend on their location. Internal hemorrhoids ( those that can be found inside the rectum) rarely cause discomfort. Bleeding may happen especially when there is irritation or straining when passing stool. Some people with internal hemorrhoids may also complain of pain when the internal hemorrhoid is pushed through the anal opening.
Hemorrhoids found outside of and around the anus (also called external hemorrhoids), may cause itchiness and bleeding when irritated. Severe pain, swelling, inflammation, and formation of a hard lump may result from thrombosed hemorrhoids. This type of hemorrhoid occurs when blood pools in an external hemorrhoid and form a thrombus or clot.
Hemorrhoids can make daily activities, such as biking, exercising or even sitting for long periods of time, very uncomfortable and hard to live with.
Managing Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid symptoms can sometimes be managed at home. Home remedies for hemorrhoids include diet changes to avoid constipation and topical therapies to minimize the pain and itching. A sitz bath or warm water baths may also be recommended to help reduce discomfort and itchiness.
While home remedies sometimes help to manage pain and other symptoms, these remedies do not always work or provide a long-term solution. This is especially true if hemorrhoids are causing severe pain and bleeding. In cases like these, it is likely time to seek professional medical help.
If your hemorrhoids are causing great discomfort in your everyday life, know that there is a relief. At Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville we can treat your condition and make your life comfortable again!
Our hemorrhoid expert, Dr. C. Stone Mitchell, can provide you with effective treatments for lasting comfort. With non-invasive, non-surgical procedures like Infrared Coagulation, hemorrhoid relief is now easier than ever. Contact us online, or call 865-588-9952 to schedule an appointment today.
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