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816-836-2200
Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
Request An Appointment
816-836-2200
Kansas City's Premiere Digestive Health Specialists
By age 50, more than half of all adults have experienced symptoms or pains associated with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are caused be veins in the anus that become inflamed or irritated. Older adults are more likely to experience the discomforts of hemorrhoids because the area around the anus loosens with age.
Hemorrhoids are caused by pressure put on veins in and around the anus. When veins are strained they become flexible and expand, allowing blood to gather to form a hemorrhoid. Straining during a bowel movement is often the number one reason for hemorrhoids to occur.
There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids The number one symptom for both types of hemorrhoids is bleeding during a bowel movement.
Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are not typically felt. There is little discomfort with an internal hemorrhoid unless it moves to the outside of the anus. If an internal hemorrhoid is protruding then pain and severe uncomfortably may be felt.
External hemorrhoids are located just outside of the anus. Because they are outside of the anus, external hemorrhoids are more uncomfortable. External hemorrhoids can be seen and felt and usually cause itching, swelling and bleeding from the anus.
Other symptoms of hemorrhoids can include: the leakage of feces, a tender small olive size lump, and mild burning around the anus.
Hemorrhoids can flare up at unexpected times and for unexplained reasons. If you are experiencing continual symptoms of hemorrhoids, it is always best to consult a physician to rule out a more serious problem or condition. Anal bleeding can also be a sign of colon cancer or cancer located inside the anus.
Unfortunately hemorrhoids can effect anyone, anytime and at any stage of life. People who suffer from frequent constipation or chronic diarrhea tend to be at higher risk. Women who are pregnant also are more likely to experience hemorrhoids because of the increased pressure on the rectum.
The best way to avoid hemorrhoids is to limit added stress or strain to the anus and rectum.
While hemorrhoids are sometimes uncomfortable and inconvenient, hemorrhoids are very treatable. Midwest Gastroenterology offers an easy, painless surgical treatment called “Hemorrhoid Banding.” This minimally invasive procedure allows us to treat hemorrhoids in a matter of seconds, with many patients returning to work the same day.
Some hemorrhoids are small and may be treated at home. Most symptoms of hemorrhoids can be cured through over-the-counter medications and home remedies. To try and treat minor hemorrhoids at home, try:
The important thing to know is that there is hope for hemorrhoids, and easy treatment options.
