Hemorrhoids Specialist
Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic
Henry E Martinez, MD
Breast and General Surgeon & Laparoscopic Surgeon located in Lake Jackson, TX
Upwards of 4% of the world’s population suffers from hemorrhoids, a highly uncomfortable but completely treatable condition. These swollen veins obstruct your anus, leading to constipation, itching, and other aggravating symptoms. Henry Martinez, MD, at Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic in Lake Jackson, Texas, can quickly diagnose and treat your hemorrhoids, alleviating your symptoms and restoring your comfort. Call to schedule your consultation or book an appointment online today.
Hemorrhoids Q & A
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur in your anus and lower rectum. These can lay hidden within your rectum, called internal hemorrhoids, or occur visibly on the skin around your anus, called external hemorrhoids.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Most cases of hemorrhoids tend to occur as a result of excess pressure in your rectum. Some of the most common reasons you might experience too much pressure in the area include:
- Excessive straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- A low-fiber diet
Other factors that can increase your risk for hemorrhoids include pregnancy, obesity, or sitting for long periods of time without a break.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids occur around the anus and often flare up following a bowel movement. The most common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort
- Itching
- Swelling
- The presence of a small lump near your anus
- Bleeding following a bowel movement
Internal hemorrhoids don’t often cause physical symptoms but might bleed following a bowel movement. This blood tends to appear a very bright red and is a good indication that you might want to seek medical treatment.
How are hemorrhoids treated?
Dr. Martinez treats your hemorrhoids depending on the location and severity of your hemorrhoids. Generally, many types of hemorrhoids will resolve on their own with home remedies, such as eating high-fiber foods, soaking in a warm bath, and keeping the area clean.
Dr. Martinez might recommend over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications if your symptoms are mild. These come as creams, pads, and ointments, and can help relieve the pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids.
If your hemorrhoids aren’t responding to home remedies and medications, Dr. Martinez might suggest hemorrhoid banding for treatment.
During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Martinez wraps a few rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off circulation and causes the hemorrhoid to fall off.
If you want the best treatment approach to taking care of your hemorrhoids, Dr. Martinez can help. To learn more, call Lake Jackson Surgical Clinic or schedule a consultation online today.