Hemorrhoids in Connecticut
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are swollen veins near the lower anus or rectum. The condition frequently occurs when the vein walls in the anus or rectum grow so thin that the veins protrude or bulge. Piles can occur internally (within the rectum) or externally (on the anus).
Hemorrhoids are quite common. In fact, almost three-fourths of adults will have piles from time to time. In some cases, a blood clot will develop within a hemorrhoid (knowns as a thrombosed hemorrhoid) and may cause pain or discomfort. The board-certified gastroenterologists at Connecticut GI specialize in working to resolve this common condition and other gastrointestinal problems. To receive care for hemorrhoids in Connecticut, please contact one of our locations today.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can be caused by an array of factors. Reasons that a hemorrhoid might occur can include:
- Obesity
- Excessive strain during bowel movements
- Standing or sitting for extended periods of time
- Ongoing constipation
- Pregnancy
- Ongoing diarrhea
- Straining too hard to perform a physical activity (like weight lifting)
- Aging
- Genetic history of hemorrhoids
What are some symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of piles can be varied depending on the location of the hemorrhoids but most often include:
- Itching around the anus
- Pain and/or swelling around the anus
- Bright red blood in one's stool
- Discomfort during bowel movements
- Purple, pink, or blue raised lesions that protrude around the anus
- Discomfort surrounding the anus while conducting physical activities
How are hemorrhoids treated?
In some cases, minor hemorrhoids can heal on their own within a week or less. Your Connecticut GI provider might prescribe medications or recommend home remedies to alleviate the irritating symptoms of hemorrhoids. When larger hemorrhoids occur, however, medical intervention is available in Connecticut and could be needed to excise or treat the hemorrhoid. Common hemorrhoid treatments include:
- Stapling
- A diet high in fiber
- Ice packs to reduce anal swelling
- Ligation using rubber bands
- Coagulation
- Draining a clot (thrombosis)
- Sclerotherapy
- Surgical Intervention
- Applying topical ointment
- Treatment of constipation or the cause of the hemorrhoids
- Tub baths several times daily in warm water
- Maintaining a clean anal region
- Avoidance of use of dry toilet paper
Hemorrhoids FAQs
Is it possible to prevent hemorrhoids?
There are certain things you can do to help prevent the development of hemorrhoids — or at the very least, diminish their effect. This can involve lifestyle modifications, such as:
- Avoid sitting for extended periods of time: Be sure to take breaks during the day. For instance, take a brief walk every 1 – 2 hours.
- Go to the restroom when you feel the urge, as opposed to waiting for another time.
- Exercise on a regular basis.
- Consume adequate amounts of water.
- Eat a high-fiber diet: This involves fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of whole grains, and more. If you struggle to get enough fiber, a fiber dietary supplement might be ideal.
Are there specific foods you should avoid if you have a hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids frequently result from issues such as chronic constipation, so making certain changes to your eating habits might be ideal if you have this condition. Our Connecticut gastrointestinal specialists may recommend avoiding foods with little to no fiber. This involves foods such as ice cream, cheese, fast food, potato chips, and processed foods. During your consultation, we can provide further details on food items to avoid if you've been diagnosed with hemorrhoids.
Can a nonprescription cream improve hemorrhoids?
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams can be an effective option to minimize common hemorrhoid symptoms, like swelling and itching. In some individuals, they could even help address minor hemorrhoids. However, they generally are not the most successful treatment approach. Because OTC hemorrhoid creams don't address the underlying cause of hemorrhoids, the condition will likely recur even with the use of these over-the-counter treatment creams.
How long do hemorrhoids persist?
The type and size of the hemorrhoid that has developed will determine how long it might remain. With internal hemorrhoids, more minor cases usually improve within a week or so. Larger hemorrhoids, however, can take up to a few weeks to improve or may require professional medical care. External hemorrhoids typically need treatment from a medical provider. Treatment options may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, using over-the-counter medications, a procedure like hemorrhoid banding (rubber band ligation), surgery, or a different approach.
Innovative treatment for hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids typically do not develop into serious health issues, but they can certainly be uncomfortable and wreak havoc on your quality of life. If you need assistance with treatment for hemorrhoids in Connecticut, our specialists are here to help. Please reach out to a Connecticut GI location near you today to request a consultation with a gastroenterology specialist.
Reviews
Great doctor!!!
Explained everything thoroughly. Made me feel comfortable. Highly recommend.
Dr. Golioto is personable, knowledgeable and efficient. Strongly recommend this practice.
Dr. Ianello is always very professional. I feel that I get the very best treatment at Connecticut G.I.
Doctor is very organized.. Went for office visit and then an procedure everything went well.Dr. has a good side manner too.
1945
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating