Hemorrhoids are common, affecting nearly 75% of adults from time to time. These swollen, inflamed veins near your lower rectum or anus may cause unpleasant symptoms if left untreated. At his practice in Flushing, Queens, board-certified gastroenterologist Samuel Cho, MD, and his experienced team use simple treatments to eliminate hemorrhoids, so you can live symptom-free. Call the New York City, office today to learn more about hemorrhoid treatment, or schedule an appointment online.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins similar to varicose veins and develop near your anus or rectum. They might occur from:
Sometimes the cause of hemorrhoids isn’t always entirely clear.
If you experience the following signs and symptoms, you may have hemorrhoids:
If you have rectal bleeding, it could be a sign of a serious health condition, such as anal or colorectal cancer. That’s why seeing a doctor for symptoms that persist more than a few days is crucial to your overall health.
To treat hemorrhoids, Dr. Cho reviews your medical history and symptoms and may complete a digital exam or visual inspection.
If you have symptoms of digestive health problems or are at risk of colorectal cancer, he might suggest a colonoscopy. Your personalized hemorrhoid treatment plan may include:
Dr. Cho might recommend increasing your fiber intake or taking warm baths. He may suggest over-the-counter pain relievers to ease hemorrhoid discomfort.
Hemorrhoids might go away within a week with at-home remedies, but if not, Dr. Cho may recommend topical ointments, creams, medicated pads, or suppositories to relieve pain and itching.
If you have painful hemorrhoids or a blood clot, Dr. Cho might suggest minimally invasive surgery to shrink or get rid of hemorrhoids and ease pain. Dr. Cho works with you to determine which minimally invasive procedure is right for you.
There are several ways you can keep your stool soft and lower your risk of hemorrhoids. Examples include:
Even if you take the proper precautions, hemorrhoids may still occur. Call Samuel Cho, MD, PC, if you have rectal pain or bleeding, or book an appointment online today.