Hemorrhoids are a common problem. It is estimated that about fifty percent of adults will develop hemorrhoids by the time they are 50. Fortunately, they are easily treated by your GI specialist.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure on the veins which lie just underneath the lining of the rectum and anus. They can also be caused by repeated straining during a bowel movement.

Risk Factors for Hemorrhoids

You may be at greater risk of developing hemorrhoids if you are pregnant, overweight, or you have a job which requires you to sit for a long period of time, such as truck driving.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can cause pain, bleeding, and itching in and around your rectum. They can also protrude through the anal canal.

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are classified into two types, depending on their location:

• Internal hemorrhoids, which develop in the lower rectum
• External hemorrhoids which develop around the anus

What You Can Do at Home To Get Relief From Hemorrhoid Discomfort

There are over the counter products to help shrink swelling, reduce inflammation, and decrease pain caused by hemorrhoids. These products can help with mild, occasional hemorrhoid discomfort.

Professional Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Your GI specialist can help get rid of hemorrhoids permanently using a banding system. Suction is used to place a band at the base of the hemorrhoid. The band cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and shrivel up. The hemorrhoid falls off in a few days.

Hemorrhoid banding is painless and takes just a few minutes. There is no prep time or sedation required for the procedure, and there is no downtime, so you can get back to your day.

To learn more about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of hemorrhoids, call Dr. Arun Khazanchi at Premiere GI, PLLC in Lakewood Ranch, FL. You can reach him in the office by calling (941) 334-9040, so call now.