I’ve Ignored My Hemorrhoids for Years – Now What?

Hemorrhoids are something no one wants to talk about, but they happen more frequently than you think. The painful, swollen veins in the anus or rectum can pop up and cause significant discomfort.

If you have hemorrhoids and have ignored them, you're not alone. Many people are embarrassed or don't want to see a doctor for the problem — until it hurts.

Hemorrhoids are something you should constantly evaluate, which is why we offer hemorrhoid exams at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants. Dr. Ilyas Memon is an experienced gastroenterologist offering conservative measures and surgical treatment for painful hemorrhoids.

The facts on hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a painful issue that happens when blood vessels swell near the rectum or anus, and they often resemble varicose veins. Internal hemorrhoids develop inside of the rectum, while external hemorrhoids form near the anus, under the skin.

The symptoms of hemorrhoids vary, depending on the type you have and how long you’ve had them. The most common symptoms are pain or discomfort, bleeding, and itching or irritation around the anus and rectum.

Pressure around the skin of the rectum and anus leads to hemorrhoids, primarily through the following circumstances:

• Being overweight or obese
• Pregnancy
• Anal intercourse
• Straining to have a bowel movement
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Eating a low-fiber diet

Lifting extremely heavy items regularly or sitting for long periods may also lead to hemorrhoids. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop hemorrhoids.

However, you shouldn’t ignore a hemorrhoid for a long time, especially if it flares up often. But if you have put treatment off, there are plenty of options for relief.

Signs you should see a doctor

Not everyone seeks treatment for hemorrhoids, especially if they’re mild and don’t bother you much. However, hemorrhoids can change over time and become much worse without treatment.

If a hemorrhoid is bothering you, getting treatment early on is essential. Other reasons to seek medical help for a hemorrhoid include:

Rectal bleeding

Anytime you notice rectal bleeding, it’s a sign of concern. Hemorrhoids can cause painless bleeding during bowel movements that you may or may not see on the toilet paper when you wipe. The blood is typically bright red and is in small amounts.

Extreme pain or discomfort

Pain and discomfort are common with minor hemorrhoids and more severe thrombosed hemorrhoids. Anytime you experience hemorrhoid pain, it’s a good idea to get help. Painful hemorrhoids could signal a bigger problem.

Pain persists despite home care

Pain that continues despite using home products or sitz baths is also an excellent reason to seek treatment. If the hemorrhoid doesn’t get better on its own, you may require therapy for long-term relief.

Passage of dark or tarry stools

Blood in your stool may appear dark red or black and tarry — which is a reason for concern. Seek treatment immediately if you have blood in your stools and experience dizziness or faintness.

What are my treatment options?

The great news is that we can successfully treat many forms of hemorrhoids through conservative measures, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. The severity of your hemorrhoids determines what treatment works best. We offer the following treatment options for hemorrhoids:

Lifestyle changes

Dr. Memon offers lifestyle changes for mild to moderate hemorrhoids that help manage symptoms. Changing your diet to include high-fiber foods, using topical creams, and taking regular warm sitz baths are all great ways to manage hemorrhoid discomfort.

Minimally invasive procedures

Lifestyle changes work for many people, but they don't cure all hemorrhoids. If your symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes, Dr. Memon offers several minimally invasive options, such as hemorrhoid banding, sclerotherapy, and laser treatments.

Surgery

Dr. Memon reserves surgery for severe hemorrhoids that don't respond to other treatments. You may require a hemorrhoidectomy, which is a surgical procedure where Dr. Memon removes the excess tissue that leads to bleeding. It’s the best way to remove bothersome hemorrhoids and keep them from returning.

Call Texas Digestive Disease Consultants in The Woodlands, Magnolia, and Willis, Texas, today to get hemorrhoid treatment or request a consultation on the website.