Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

We understand that hemorrhoids can be a painful and inconvenient condition affecting many individuals. Our goal is to provide effective and compassionate care to help you manage and alleviate the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids, or piles, occur due to swollen veins in the lower rectum and around the anus. They often develop from increased pressure in the rectal area, with common causes including straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and a low-fiber diet. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for both prevention and treatment.

Hemorrhoids are caused by the swelling of veins in the lower rectum and around the anus. This condition typically develops due to increased pressure in the rectal area. Common causes of hemorrhoids include straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and a low-fiber diet. When these factors create extra pressure, the veins in the rectal area can become enlarged, leading to the formation of hemorrhoids.

Other contributing factors to hemorrhoids include frequent constipation or diarrhea, heavy lifting, and a sedentary lifestyle. These activities can all increase pressure in the lower body and exacerbate hemorrhoid formation. Understanding the causes of hemorrhoids is crucial for both prevention and effective treatment, as addressing lifestyle factors like diet and exercise can reduce the risk of developing this condition.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids or have concerns about your rectal health, visit us for prompt and professional care. Our team is here to support you with comprehensive treatment options and preventive guidance to enhance your overall well-being.

Our team understands that hemorrhoids can be a painful and disruptive condition. W are committed to providing prompt and effective care to help you manage and alleviate the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, and their duration can vary depending on their severity and the treatment approach. For mild hemorrhoids, symptoms like itching, discomfort, and swelling may improve within a few days with simple home remedies, such as using over-the-counter creams, taking warm baths, and making dietary changes like increasing fiber intake. These methods can help reduce irritation and support healing in a relatively short time.

However, for more severe cases, such as prolapsed or thrombosed hemorrhoids, the symptoms may last longer and require medical intervention. In these situations, additional treatments may be needed, such as medical procedures to help relieve symptoms and encourage healing. If hemorrhoids persist for several weeks or worsen, it’s important to seek professional medical attention to ensure proper care and prevent further complications.

If you have frequent or severe hemorrhoid issues, we offer personalized treatment options tailored to your condition. Our goal is to help you achieve lasting relief and improve your quality of life.

You should see a doctor for hemorrhoids if you experience symptoms that do not improve with home treatments or if the condition worsens. Common signs that warrant a doctor’s visit include persistent or severe pain, especially when sitting or during bowel movements, and bleeding. If you notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in your stool, it could indicate that your hemorrhoid is bleeding, and it’s important to get checked, especially if the bleeding continues or is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or weakness.

If you have difficulty passing stool or feel as though there is a lump in the rectal area, this could be a sign of a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which occurs when blood clots form inside the hemorrhoid. Thrombosed hemorrhoids can be very painful and may require medical intervention.

Additionally, if you have chronic hemorrhoids that keep recurring despite lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments, a doctor can recommend more effective treatment options, including prescription medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.

Seeing a healthcare professional is also necessary if you have other gastrointestinal issues or if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to hemorrhoids or something more serious. Always consult a doctor for persistent or severe symptoms.

Preventing hemorrhoids involves making lifestyle changes that promote regular bowel movements and reduce strain on the rectal area. One of the most important factors is maintaining a high-fiber diet. Fiber softens stool and adds bulk, making it easier to pass without straining. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your meals can help increase your fiber intake. Additionally, drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps stool soft and prevents constipation.

Staying active is also key to preventing hemorrhoids. Regular exercise, such as walking or swimming, helps keep the digestive system functioning properly and promotes regular bowel movements. Prolonged sitting or standing can contribute to hemorrhoid development, so it’s important to take breaks, stretch, and move around if your job or routine requires long periods of inactivity.

Avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements is crucial. If you feel the urge to go, try not to delay it. Spending too much time on the toilet or straining to pass stool can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum.

Lastly, if you’re prone to hemorrhoids, avoid heavy lifting and practice proper lifting techniques to reduce pressure on the rectal area. Implementing these habits can greatly reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids.

At Prima Urgent Care, our goal is to make the abscess drainage procedure as straightforward and effective as possible. Contact us or schedule a consultation today for prompt, professional treatment and get the relief you deserve! We are conveniently located at 3903 Fair Ridge Dr Suite Q, Fairfax, VA 22033. We serve patients from Fairfax VA, South Riding VA, Dulles VA, Chantilly VA, Stone Ridge VA, Oakton VA, Legato VA, Burke VA, Oak Hill VA, Lees Corner VA & BEYOND! Our Fairfax location is close to Fair Oaks Hospital, Fair Oaks Mall, and Greenbriar Shopping Center.