Want to get rid of your annoying hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a common problem among men and women. The NIH reports that one in 20 Americans will deal with hemorrhoids, and as many as half of adults over 50 years old have hemorrhoids. While it’s an embarrassing and often painful problem, our Orlando & Kissimmee, FL, gastroenterologists also know that there will be times when home care isn’t enough, and our team needs to step in to treat your hemorrhoids.
Why Do Hemorrhoids Happen?
The veins of the anus and rectum may stretch when under pressure, which causes them to swell. Pressure to these veins may be caused by,
- Straining, particularly during bowel movements
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting
- Long periods of sitting, especially on the toilet
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Being overweight or obese
Can I Treat Hemorrhoids Myself?
Yes, in most instances, you can ease hemorrhoid symptoms on your own. Here are some ways to treat hemorrhoids yourself,
- Increasing your fiber intake
- Taking psyllium or a stool softener
- Staying hydrated daily
- Not straining or sitting for long periods of time when using the bathroom
- Using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams
- Relaxing in a sitz bath to alleviate discomfort
When Should I See a Medical Professional?
If you don’t experience relief from your hemorrhoid pain after one week of home care, it’s time to turn to our Orlando & Kissimmee, FL, gastroenterologists. Even internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed can go away over time with home care; however, if you notice bleeding or severely prolapsed hemorrhoids, you may need to turn to us for treatment.
How Will a Gastroenterologist Treat Hemorrhoids?
When home care doesn’t work, we may recommend one of these procedures to treat your hemorrhoids,
Rubber band ligation: This procedure involves placing a rubber band at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, so it eventually falls off. Since there are no nerve endings in this area, this is a painless procedure.
Sclerotherapy: This procedure, often used to get rid of varicose and spider veins, can also remove internal hemorrhoids. Our team will inject a special solution into the hemorrhoid that causes tissue to build up, cutting off blood flow.
These are the two most common procedures used to get rid of hemorrhoids; however, other similar techniques also remove hemorrhoids by cutting off the blood supply. In severe cases where the hemorrhoid isn’t responding to other treatment options, our Orlando & Kissimmee, FL, gastroenterologists may recommend outpatient surgery.
If you are dealing with hemorrhoids that aren’t responding to home care, the Orlando and Kissimmee, FL, gastroenterologists of Digestive and Liver Center of Florida can help. Call (407) 384-7388 to discuss your treatment options today.