I'm Embarrassed About My Hemorrhoids

The mention of the word hemorrhoids can make you cringe with embarrassment. And it’s true that people don’t usually bring hemorrhoids up in casual conversation. However, if you struggle with these swollen veins in your lower rectum and anus — you’re not alone. As many as 1 in every 20 adults in the United States has symptomatic hemorrhoids. 

At Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, in Jackson, Mississippi, our team understands the discomfort that hemorrhoids cause, both physically and emotionally. 

Read on to learn more about hemorrhoids, debunk some myths, and explore effective treatments.

About hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). 

Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include bright red blood when you wipe, in your stool, or in the toilet bowl. 

External hemorrhoids can make your anus itchy. You might feel hard lumps near your anus that are sore or tender. These lumps can make it painful to sit and cause rectal bleeding. 

Why you get hemorrhoids

Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. For example, if you strain during bowel movements, it can result in hemorrhoids. This is a common side effect of constipation. If you don’t eat enough fiber, it can lead to constipation and hemorrhoids.

Prolonged sitting increases pressure on the veins in your anus and rectum, leading to hemorrhoids. 

Pregnant women experience increased pressure on the pelvic veins, leading to hemorrhoids. 

People with weight challenges also have extra weight that puts additional pressure on the rectal veins.

Managing hemorrhoids at home

If you have a mild case of hemorrhoids, you can try at-home remedies to resolve them. These remedies include:

• A high-fiber diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stool and reduce straining
• Drinking plenty of water to keep stools soft
• Warm baths to soothe irritation
• Over-the-counter creams and ointments

Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods or straining to have a bowel movement. Regular exercise, like a daily walk, can help keep your bowels moving.

When to seek medical help

If at-home treatments don’t provide relief, or if you experience significant pain or bleeding, it's time to seek medical attention. At Lakeland Surgical Center, PLLC, we offer several effective treatments:

Rubber band ligation 

This procedure involves placing a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply, causing it to shrink.

Sclerotherapy

We inject a solution into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.

Infrared coagulation

We use a special device to burn the hemorrhoidal tissue.

Hemorrhoidectomy

For severe cases, surgical removal of hemorrhoids may be necessary.

By seeking help, you can alleviate discomfort and get back to enjoying life without the pain and embarrassment of hemorrhoids.

If you or someone you know is struggling with hemorrhoids, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about hemorrhoid treatment, call Lakeland Surgical Clinic, PLLC, today or use the online tool to talk to our expert team.