Hemorrhoids are small lumps made from blood vessels, in and around the anus and lower rectum, that have become swollen. Hemorrhoids can be either inside your anus (internal) or under the skin around your anus (external). Sometimes they don't cause symptoms, but at other times they cause itching around your anus, discomfort, and bleeding.
Other symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease include:
- Anal pain, especially while sitting
- Bright red blood on toilet tissue, stool, or in the toilet bowl
- Pain during bowel movements
- Tender lump(s) near your anus
Hemorrhoids are common — you have a 50% chance of getting symptomatic hemorrhoids before the age of 50, and nearly three out of four adults will have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.
Tests
Physical Exam
Your doctor will check your anus and rectum, and look for swollen blood vessels.
Digital Rectum Examination (DRE)
In this exam, your doctor inserts a gloved, greased (lubricated) finger into your rectum to check for any problems.
Anoscopy
In this test, your doctor inserts a small, tubular instrument a few inches into the anus to check for problems of the anal canal, including internal hemorrhoids.
Proctoscopy
In this test, your doctor inserts a thin, lighted tube into your anus to view your entire rectum.
Sigmoidoscopy
This test allows your doctor to check the inside of part of your large intestine.
Colonoscopy
In a colonoscopy, your doctor examines the full length of your large intestine to check for any abnormal growths, tissue that is red or swollen, sores (ulcers), or bleeding.
Treatments
Topical Medications
Your doctor may prescribe a prescription topical medication or recommend an over-the-counter topical medication that can help relieve itching and pain.
Diet Modification
You may need to make changes to your diet, such as eating more fiber-containing foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You may need to regularly take stool softeners or fiber supplements.
Hygiene
Make sure you are keeping your anal area clean and dry at all times.
Rubber-band Ligation
In this surgical procedure, a rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside your rectum to cut off circulation to the hemorrhoid. Then, the hemorrhoid shrinks and goes away in a few days.
Sclerotherapy
Your doctor will inject a chemical solution around the blood vessel to shrink the hemorrhoid.
Hemorrhoidectomy
This is a surgical procedure in which your doctor permanently removes your hemorrhoids.
Biopsy
Your doctor may remove a small tissue sample (biopsy) to be sent to the laboratory for further analysis and diagnosis.
Why Choose UHealth?
A broad array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Regardless of your age, condition, or whether you need long- or short-term digestive treatments, you will receive the most accurate diagnosis and most effective treatment to keep your stomach, digestive system, and organs healthy.
A comprehensive team of surgeons. We provide advanced surgical care for many health problems — from heart conditions to cancer. You’ll receive care from a surgeon who has specialized experience and expertise in your specific condition, ensuring you receive the right care for your needs.
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