Hemorrhoids can cause pain, irritation, itching or discomfort, though in other cases, you may not even be aware that you have them. If you suspect you have hemorrhoids, contact Ahmed Farag, MD, and the team at Advanced Vascular Institute, in Panama City, Florida. They treat hemorrhoid pain and discomfort in their state-of-the-art facility. Call the office or request an appointment online today.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your anus or rectum that can cause itching, bleeding, and discomfort. When the swollen veins are inside the rectum, they are internal hemorrhoids, and you generally can’t see them. When they are located under the skin surrounding the outside of your anus, they are external hemorrhoids, and they are visible.
If you have painless bleeding during bowel movements (small amounts of bright blood), itching or irritation of the anus or surrounding region, or swelling in the area, you most likely have hemorrhoids.
Keep in mind that hemorrhoids are very common. In fact, 3 out of 4 adults will experience hemorrhoids at some point.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids occur as the result of pressure on the veins in or around your anus, causing them to stretch, bulge, or swell. Increased pressure on the lower rectum can be the result of:
However, you can also develop hemorrhoids for other reasons. You become more susceptible to hemorrhoids as you age since the tissue that supports the veins in the region weakens and stretches over time.
How do you treat hemorrhoids?
If your symptoms persist for more than three days, it’s time to consult with the team at Advanced Vascular Institute. They have extensive experience treating hemorrhoids.
The first line of treatment is usually a special cream (for external treatment) or suppository (for internal treatment). In cases where conservative measures have not provided relief, hemorrhoid
artery embolization (HAE) is the most effective option. Hemorrhoid artery embolization is a non-surgical procedure that involves the injection of a small amount of an embolic into the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoids.
The hemorrhoid artery embolization procedure causes the hemorrhoid to shrink or disappear completely. HAE has been shown to provide long-lasting relief for people who have not responded to conservative treatments.
Hemorrhoids are a common and easily treatable condition. Advanced Vascular Institute provides professional and compassionate care for its patients. Call the office or book an appointment online today for quick relief from hemorrhoid discomfort.