What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a common condition, affecting more than 3 million people each year. Everyone has some hemorrhoids, the cloud-like clusters of veins that lie just beneath the mucous membranes lining the lowest part of the rectum and the anus. The abnormal condition commonly known as hemorrhoids (or piles) develops when those veins become swollen and inflamed. Hemorrhoids may result from straining during bowel movements or from the severe pressure during pregnancy, among other things. Hemorrhoids may be located inside the rectum, known as internal hemorrhoids, or they may develop under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).

What causes Hemorrhoids?

The causes of hemorrhoids are multifaceted and include factors such as:

Straining during a bowel movement: causing excess tension and pressure on the rectal veins.
Chronic diarrhea: The overuse of the anal muscles and increased pressure from sitting for an extended period of time.
Chronic constipation: This is the most common cause of hemorrhoids happens when the pressure used to pass stool fills the anal veins to the point of creating a hemorrhoid.
Prolonged Sitting: A sedentary lifestyle, especially if combined with prolonged sitting, can contribute to hemorrhoids.
Obesity: The added pressure to the rectum and pelvic area from excess weight can form hemorrhoids.
Pregnancy: Pressure and weight on the pelvic area from the enlarged uterus can cause swelling of the anal canal.
Childbirth: The extreme pressure and force can also cause hemorrhoids.
Heavy Lifting: Jobs or activities that involve heavy lifting can increase abdominal pressure and potentially lead to hemorrhoids, particularly if proper lifting techniques are not followed.
Low Fiber Diet

What are the symptoms of Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids often manifest with a range of uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. Here are the most common signs and symptoms associated with hemorrhoids:

Rectal Bleeding: Blood may appear on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on stool. While the bleeding is typically painless and bright red, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out other, potentially more serious conditions.
Anal Itching and Irritation: Persistent itching or irritation around the anus often results from the presence of swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the area.
Pain or Discomfort: Pain may be more pronounced with external hemorrhoids, which are located under the skin around the anus and can develop blood clots. Internal hemorrhoids on the other hand may not cause pain unless it starts protruding.
Swelling or Lump Near the Anus: External hemorrhoids can sometimes be felt as soft lumps or swellings near the anal opening.

Diagnosis & Screening

How are Hemorrhoids diagnosed?

At the Surgery Group of LA, Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your condition. During an initial consultation, you can expect:

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)

During this procedure, the healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to assess the rectal and anal area. They can feel for the presence of internal hemorrhoids, their size, and whether they are prolapsed or bleeding.

Anoscopy

A small, lighted tube called an anoscope is gently inserted into the anus. This allows the healthcare provider to get a clear view of the area and identify any internal hemorrhoids.

Sigmoidoscopy

This procedure involves using a flexible, lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope to examine the rectum and lower part of the colon. It provides a more comprehensive view of the rectal and anal area and can help confirm the presence and severity of internal hemorrhoids.

Treatment

What Hemorrhoid Remedies Can I Try at Home?

For mild hemorrhoids you can try the following lifestyle and dietary changes at home.

Increasing dietary fiber: Consuming more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help soften stools, making them easier to pass.
Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps stools soft and reduces the risk of constipation.
Avoiding straining: Be mindful not to strain during bowel movements.
Soaking in a sitz bath or warm bath: This involves soaking your anal area for about 10-15 minutes and can be done 2-3 times daily.
Maintaining good hygiene: Gently clean the anal area after each bowel movement to prevent irritation.

What are the Minimally Invasive and Surgical Procedures for Hemorrhoid Treatment?

For mild hemorrhoid cases, lifestyle and dietary changes can offer significant relief. If your symptoms persist or worsen, Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian provide both minimally invasive and surgical options to treat your hemorrhoids.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Rubber band ligation: This procedure involves placing a rubber band around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off.
Infrared coagulation (IRC): IRC uses heat to coagulate and shrink internal hemorrhoids.
Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and disappear.
THD procedure (Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization): Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian use a Doppler probe to precisely identify the hemorrhoidal arteries and then precisely ligate or stitch the arteries to reduce blood flow to the hemorrhoids, leading to their shrinkage and symptom relief.

Surgical Procedures

Hemorrhoid Stapling (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids – PPH): This surgical procedure is primarily used for the treatment of prolapsed hemorrhoids. It involves stapling the hemorrhoid tissue to reduce blood flow and shrink the hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids may be recommended for severe cases or when other treatments have not provided relief. A hemorrhoidectomy is typically performed in a hospital setting and involves the excision of the hemorrhoidal tissue by our specialist hemorrhoid doctors.

PREVENTION

How Can I Prevent Hemorrhoids?

The prevention of any unpleasant medical condition is key to living a long and healthy life. When it comes to preventing the occurrence of hemorrhoids here is what you should do:

Eat fiber: Add more fiber to your diet, either through food, a fiber supplement (such as Metamucil, Citrucel, or Fiber Con), or both. Fiber softens stools and makes them easier to pass, reducing the pressure that causes hemorrhoids. Add high-fiber foods like broccoli, beans, wheat, whole-grain foods, and fresh fruit to your diet. Start slowly, and gradually increase your intake to 25–30 grams per day.
Drink a lot of fluids: Drinking enough water is key to preventing the most common cause of hemorrhoids, constipation. Make sure you are staying adequately hydrated each day to promote healthy bowel movements and overall health. Fiber and water work go hand in hand to help move stool out of the body in an efficient manner.
Exercise: Regular moderate exercise contributes to keeping your bowel movements regular. For example, a brisk 20– 30-minute walk each day can help stimulate bowel function. Additionally, the more time you spend on your feet, the less time you spend seated, putting pressure on your pelvic area.

Avoid straining: Straining the pelvic area is the most basic cause of hemorrhoids. If you push too hard while trying to use the restroom, you can easily cause hemorrhoids. Heavy lifting activities can also contribute to pelvic pressure and cause hemorrhoids as well.
Treat the clot: When an external hemorrhoid forms a blood clot, the pain can be unbearable. If the clot has been present for longer than two days, apply over the counter treatments to try and relieve some of the symptoms. If the clot is more recent, hemorrhoids can be surgically removed or the clot can be withdrawn from the vein in a minor in-office procedure performed by a surgeon

Hemorrhoid

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids?

Symptoms like itching, swelling, and occasional bleeding during bowel movements may indicate hemorrhoids. A professional evaluation can confirm the diagnosis.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help prevent hemorrhoids?

Yes, staying hydrated, eating a high-fiber diet, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help reduce your risk.

How long does it take for hemorrhoid treatments to work?

The duration varies depending on the treatment type. Non-surgical treatments often provide relief within days, while recovery from surgical procedures may take a few weeks.

Do all hemorrhoids require medical treatment?

Not always. Many mild hemorrhoids improve with over-the-counter remedies and home care, but persistent or severe cases may need professional intervention.

Can untreated hemorrhoids lead to complications?

Yes, severe cases that are left untreated may cause persistent bleeding, anemia, or thrombosed hemorrhoids that require urgent care.

What are some signs that I might need hemorrhoid surgery?

You may need surgery if you have large, painful, or prolapsed hemorrhoids that don’t respond to conservative treatments. Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the best option for you.

Schedule an evaluation with one of our colorectal surgeons today!

Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Barnajian extensive expertise in minimally invasive hemorrhoid removal and surgical treatments in Los Angeles ensures that patients receive the most effective care tailored to their unique needs. Our state-of-the-art facility, coupled with our surgeons’ skills and compassionate, personalized care ensures that you’re in the best hands when seeking relief from hemorrhoids.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of the top hemorrhoids doctors in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills to take the first step toward a more comfortable, healthier life.

310-861-7493

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