Most people will deal with hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. They happen quite often, especially as you get older, during pregnancy or if you have trouble with constipation. Even though they are common, the symptoms can be very uncomfortable.
At Banner Health, we understand how serious your symptoms can be. We provide clear answers, practical solutions and advanced treatments if needed.
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in or around your rectum and anus. The rectum is the lower part of your large intestine. Your anus is the opening where stool (poop) leaves your body.
You can think of hemorrhoids as varicose veins in the rectal area. Just like varicose veins in your legs, these veins get enlarged and swollen when there is too much pressure. The extra pressure stretches the vein walls, which can cause irritation, pain or bleeding.
Hemorrhoids and anal fissures can cause similar problems, like pain and bleeding during bowel movements. But they are different conditions.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or around the anus. They happen when pressure makes the veins swell. Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus. They usually occur when you pass hard or large stools.
There are two main types of hemorrhoids: internal and external hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids develop inside your rectum. Usually, you can't see or feel them. They might not cause pain but they can cause bleeding. You may notice bright red blood on toilet paper after wiping or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
Sometimes, internal hemorrhoids slide outside the anus. This is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid. It can cause pain, pressure or discomfort.
External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the opening of your anus. They can cause itching, pain or soreness. You might notice a tender lump near your anus.
Sometimes, a blood clot can form inside an external hemorrhoid. This is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid. It can cause sudden, severe pain and swelling. However, it does not move to other parts of your body.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type.
Internal hemorrhoids usually do not cause pain unless they prolapse.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid can cause severe pain, a hard lump or swelling and inflammation. If you notice rectal bleeding, don't ignore it. While hemorrhoids are a common cause, other conditions can also cause bleeding. A health care provider can help find out the cause and make sure you get the right treatment.
Hemorrhoids develop when pressure builds up in the veins of your lower rectum and anus. The most common cause of hemorrhoids is straining too hard when you poop. When you push hard to poop, you increase pressure in the rectal veins.
Other common causes include:
Certain factors can increase your risk for hemorrhoids, including:
Your health care provider will start with a physical exam. They may gently examine the area around your anus for external hemorrhoids.
To check for internal hemorrhoids, they may:
If you have bleeding, your provider may recommend additional tests to rule out other causes. This is especially important if you are over age 45 or have risk factors for colon cancer.
Many hemorrhoids improve with simple changes. You can often find relief within a few days.
If home care does not help, you may need medical care. Your treatment will depend on your symptoms and the severity of your hemorrhoids.
These procedures are usually used for internal hemorrhoids and are often done in a clinic setting:
If hemorrhoids are large, very painful or do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be needed. Surgical options include:
Your health care provider will explain the risks and benefits of each option. Together, you will choose the treatment that fits your needs.
Many hemorrhoids improve on their own. But untreated hemorrhoids can lead to:
If you have ongoing symptoms, do not ignore them. Early treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
You can lower your risk by making healthy habits part of your daily routine:
Regular physical activity helps keep your digestive system moving. Even simple activities like walking can help.
If you are pregnant, hemorrhoids can be really uncomfortable. Increased blood volume and pressure from your growing baby can cause veins to swell.
You can reduce symptoms by:
Most pregnancy-related hemorrhoids improve after delivery. If symptoms continue, talk to your provider.
If hemorrhoids are affecting your daily life, help is available. Our primary care providers and specialists at Banner Health can diagnose your condition and guide you through treatment options.
Do not let discomfort keep you from living your life. Make an appointment with a Banner Health specialist today.
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