Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can really interfere with quality of life. Yet most people have been told to put up with the symptoms or to have surgery. Now there is a proven better way to deal with simple hemorrhoids, effectively.

Every person has three – absolutely normal – hemorrhoid veins in the end of the rectum: they act as inflatable cushions to make it easier to pass stool through the anal canal.

Unfortunately, as we get older, these veins are prone to become enlarged to the point where they interfere with the anus’ ability to close normally. Itching (as a result of mucus deposits on the surrounding skin), swelling and bleeding may result. And, soiling may occur with or without prolapse (tissue protruding). Hemorrhoids should not be painful.

Because bleeding occurs for other reasons, these reasons must be excluded before assuming the bleeding is only from hemorrhoids.

*No lifting or strenuous exertion for 24 hours.

As always, a thoughtful history and physical exam by a gastroenterologist go a long way to determine what is going on. Tests may include colonoscopy to exclude other causes of bleeding.

Note also – if hemorrhoids have “flared” and have bothered you more than once, they will likely recur. They can be readily treated to prevent such future flares.

Based in the heart of uptown and the Garden District of New Orleans, Dr. Huilgol (”Dr. Viv”) and the team at NOLA Gastro is committed to working with you to investigate what is going on, so you can make the correct choices for you.

GI health matters. Let’s work it out together.