Let's Talk About Internal Hemorrhoids: What They Are, Why They Happen, and How to Treat Them
Hey there! Today, we're diving into a topic that many people find uncomfortable to discuss but is actually super common: internal hemorrhoids. Don't worry, we'll keep things light and easy to understand while covering all the important stuff. By the end of this post, you'll know what hemorrhoids are, what causes them, how to spot the symptoms, and the various treatment options available. So, let's get started!
What Hemorrhoids Are: The Basics
First things first, let's talk about what hemorrhoids actually are. Imagine the veins in your body like a network of tiny tubes carrying blood. Now, sometimes these veins can get swollen or irritated, especially in certain areas of your body – like your bottom! When this happens in or around your anus (yep, we're going there), we call them hemorrhoids.
There are two main types of hemorrhoids: external and internal. Today, we're focusing on internal hemorrhoids, which are the ones that form inside your rectum. They're usually painless but can cause some annoying symptoms that we'll get into later.
Hemorrhoids Cause: Why Do These Pesky Things Happen?
Now that we know what hemorrhoids are, let's talk about why they show up in the first place. There are several reasons why you might develop internal hemorrhoids:
Straining during bowel movements: This is a big one! When you push too hard on the toilet, it puts extra pressure on those veins.
Constipation: Similar to straining, being constipated can lead to more pressure down there.
Sitting for long periods: Spending hours on end in a chair (hello, office workers and gamers!) can increase your risk.
Pregnancy: The extra weight and pressure during pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids.
Aging: As we get older, the tissues that support the veins in our rectum can weaken.
Chronic diarrhea: Frequent loose stools can irritate the area.
Heavy lifting: Repeatedly lifting heavy objects can increase pressure in your abdomen and rectal area.
Remember, sometimes hemorrhoids just happen, even if you're doing everything right. Don't beat yourself up about it!
Hemorrhoids Symptoms: How to Know If You've Got 'Em
Okay, so how do you know if you're dealing with internal hemorrhoids? Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
Bleeding during bowel movements: This is often the first sign. You might notice bright red blood on your toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
Anal itching or irritation: The area might feel uncomfortable or itchy.
Mucus discharge: You might notice a slimy substance in your underwear or when you wipe.
Feeling of fullness or pressure: Sometimes, it might feel like something's "there" even after you've finished your business.
Prolapse: In more severe cases, the hemorrhoid might actually stick out of your anus. Don't panic if this happens – it can often be gently pushed back in.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially bleeding, it's a good idea to chat with your doctor. They can confirm if it's hemorrhoids or something else.
Hemorrhoids Treatment: Your Options for Relief
Now for the part you've been waiting for – how to make these annoying hemorrhoids go away! There are quite a few options for hemorrhoids treatment, ranging from simple at-home remedies to more advanced medical procedures. Let's break them down:
At-Home Remedies:
Sitz baths: Soaking your bottom in warm water for 10-15 minutes a few times a day can help relieve symptoms. This is especially helpful if they are sore.
Over-the-counter creams and suppositories: These can help with itching and discomfort. Unfortunately they usually don't make them any smaller though.
Fiber-rich diet and plenty of water: This helps prevent constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoids.
Avoid straining: Take your time in the bathroom and don't push too hard.
Exercise regularly: This can help improve circulation and prevent constipation.
Try to be "bathroom efficient" - we want to strike a balance between rushing and straining and relaxing but sitting too long on the toilet. A good idea is to focus on bowel movements in the bathroom, and save that novel or scrolling on your phone for some other time!
Medical/Surgical Treatments:
If at-home treatments aren't cutting it, your doctor might recommend one of these options:
Rubber Band Ligation (Hemorrhoid Banding): This is a popular choice for treating internal hemorrhoids. It's convenient, safe, and performed in the doctor's office without sedation. The doctor places a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. After a few days, the hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off. It's not as scary as it sounds! Our office performs rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids routinely.
Sclerotherapy: In this procedure, the doctor injects a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid to shrink it. It's worth noting that this treatment isn't widely available everywhere.
Hemwell Electrosurgical Treatment: This is a highly efficient and safe option that can treat multiple hemorrhoids in a single session, and we are proud to announce that it is now offered at Digestive Health Center of Plano and Digestive Health Center of Allen. Hemwell is performed under sedation at an Ambulatory Surgical Center. The procedure uses a special device to deliver a precise low voltage electrical current to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear.
Surgery (Hemorrhoidectomy): This is typically reserved for severe cases that don't respond to other treatments. It's important to note that hemorrhoid surgery can be quite painful, and most patients prefer to avoid it if possible. The good news is that with the other treatment options available, surgery is much less frequently needed these days.
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
So, with all these options, how do you know which hemorrhoids treatment is right for you? Here are a few things to consider:
Severity of your symptoms: Mild cases might respond well to at-home treatments, while more severe or persistent cases might require medical intervention.
Your personal preferences: Some people might prefer a quick in-office procedure like hemorrhoid banding, while others might opt for a more comprehensive treatment like the Hemwell procedure.
Availability: Not all treatments are available everywhere, so check with your doctor about what's offered in your area.
Recovery time: Consider how much time you can take off work or other activities. Most non-surgical treatments have minimal recovery time, but surgery can require several weeks of recovery.
Cost and insurance coverage: Be sure to check what your insurance covers and what out-of-pocket costs you might incur.
Remember, the best treatment for you is the one that addresses your specific situation and concerns. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor lots of questions to help you make the best decision.
Living with and Preventing Hemorrhoids
While dealing with hemorrhoids can be a pain in the... well, you know... the good news is that there are ways to manage them and even prevent them from coming back. Here are some tips:
Stay hydrated and eat plenty of fiber to keep things moving smoothly in the bathroom.
Exercise regularly to improve circulation and promote healthy bowel movements.
Don't ignore the urge to go – when nature calls, answer!
Avoid sitting for long periods. If you have a desk job, try to take regular breaks to stand up and move around.
Practice good bathroom habits: don't strain, and don't spend too much time sitting on the toilet (sorry, no more scrolling through social media during bathroom breaks!).
Wrapping It Up
And there you have it – everything you ever wanted to know (and maybe some things you didn't) about internal hemorrhoids! Remember, while they can be uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing, hemorrhoids are incredibly common and nothing to be ashamed of. With the right treatment and some lifestyle adjustments, you can say goodbye to hemorrhoid troubles and get back to living your best life.
If you're dealing with hemorrhoid symptoms, don't suffer in silence. Reach out to our office to discuss your options and find the best solution for you. Your bottom will thank you!
Please click here if you would like to Schedule A Consultation, and click here if you would like to check out my Videos of the Hemwell procedure, Rubber Band Ligation, or my other procedures!
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DISCLAIMER: Please note that this blog is intended for Informational Use only and is not intended to replace personal evaluation and treatment by a medical provider. The information provided on this website is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Please consult your doctor for any information related to your personal care.