Hemorrhoids
Common, treatable, and nothing to be embarrassed about.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are extremely common — by age 50, about half of adults have experienced hemorrhoid symptoms. There are two types: internal hemorrhoids (inside the rectum, usually painless) and external hemorrhoids (under the skin around the anus, which can be painful).
Symptoms
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort (especially with external hemorrhoids)
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus (which may be sensitive or painful)
Treatment
Many hemorrhoids can be managed with conservative measures: a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, warm baths, and over-the-counter products. When conservative treatment is not enough, we offer hemorrhoid banding — a quick, effective, in-office procedure that provides relief without surgery.
Important
Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated by a physician. While hemorrhoids are the most common cause, bleeding can also signal more serious conditions like colon cancer. Do not assume bleeding is from hemorrhoids without a proper evaluation.