Hemorrhoids are a common problem that many people experience at some point in their lives. In fact, more than half of older adults over the age of 50 have hemorrhoids. For many, hemorrhoids stay dormant, don’t cause any pain, or the pain is mild and manageable. For others, however, hemorrhoids can cause extreme pain and discomfort, and affect their quality of life.
Understanding The Main Causes of Hemorrhoids
While there are a number of causes, three are among the most common: straining, poor diet, and prolonged sitting.
• Straining
One of the most common causes of hemorrhoids is straining. Straining can be caused by constipation, diarrhea, or childbirth. When you strain, the pressure on the veins in your rectum and anus increases, which can lead to hemorrhoids.
• Poor Diet
A poor diet can also lead to hemorrhoids. Eating foods that are high in fat and low in fiber can cause constipation and increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
• Prolonged Sitting
Sitting for prolonged periods of time, especially on a hard surface, can also lead to hemorrhoids. This is because when you sit, the pressure on the veins in your rectum increases.
How to treat hemorrhoids
There are several options for treating pain and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.
• Lifestyle Changes
Making a few simple lifestyle changes can often help relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids. These changes include eating a healthy diet, increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.
For help understanding what exercises to perform and which to avoid, be sure to check out these tips for How to Exercise When You Have Hemorrhoids from our blog.
• Medications
There are also a number of medications that can be used to treat the symptoms of hemorrhoids, including over-the-counter medications and prescription medications.
• Ice Packs and Warm Baths
Using an ice pack to numb the area of the hemorrhoids can also provide temporary relief. Likewise, bathing in warm water for 15-20 minutes a day is recommended to help relieve hemorrhoid pain symptoms.
• Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat hemorrhoids. This is usually reserved for cases that are severe and do not respond to other treatments.
• IRC Laser Hemorrhoid Treatment
This non-invasive method uses the warm laser light of Infrared Coagulation to gently shrink an internal hemorrhoid at its source. No sedation or stitches are required and the laser treatment takes only a few minutes. Several treatments, a couple of months a part may be needed to completely eradicate the hemorrhoid. IRC is performed in-office and is normally covered by insurance.
When to See An Expert
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from hemorrhoids, speak with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you. If your symptoms have progressed and at-home or over-the-counter treatments no longer provide relief, it may be time to visit the Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville for permanent relief.
If your hemorrhoids are causing so much discomfort that they keep you from enjoying your life, our specialists at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville can help. We’re the ONLY dedicated hemorrhoid center in the region.
To request an appointment, call our Confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952 or go online to: https://www.premiersurgical.com/hemorrhoid-treatment-appointment-request.