Detecting the Different Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are vascular bundles of tissue that develop in and around the tissue lining the anal canal.  Hemorrhoids are a natural anatomical feature. About half of adult in the United States develops at least one episode of symptoms due to hemorrhoids in their lifetime. Both medical and surgical treatment options are available for hemorrhoids in Los Angeles. The best type of treatment for a specific hemorrhoid depends on a number of factors, including the type of hemorrhoid that has developed.

There are two categories of hemorrhoids: internal and external.  All symptomatic hemorrhoids develop in very similar fashions, but are categorized separately due to the location from where they arise. Both forms of hemorrhoids are frustrating and can become incredibly painful.

 Hemorrhoids are classified based on where in they develop in the anal canal:

• Internal hemorrhoids develop in the internal lining of the rectum. These hemorrhoids are not as easily detectable as external hemorrhoids and generally do not cause severe pain. The biggest indicator of internal hemorrhoids is the appearance of blood on toilet tissue.
• External hemorrhoids develop in the outer rectal lining and are easily visible, appearing as small tags of skin around the buttocks. External hemorrhoids are typically regarded as the more painful of the two and the swollen veins will often feel itchy, raw and generally uncomfortable.

External hemorrhoids are easier to diagnose than are internal hemorrhoids, as they are easily visible and can be examined during a typical office visit with your colorectal specialist, formerely known as a proctologist.  Internal hemorrhoids are not as easily detectable, and often require a more in-depth rectal examination, though this can be completed during a standard office appointment as well.

If symptomatic, both internal and external hemorrhoids can require medical treatment. While there are many different creams, sprays and other natural remedies advertised to treat or “cure” hemorrhoids, none of these methods are proven to be fully effective. Many of these solutions will attempt to mask the itching and discomfort associated with your hemorrhoids without actually curing them.

Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids in Los Angeles is quick and relatively painless. Procedures for the removal of hemorrhoids are minimally invasive, and can even permit you to return to work and other regular activities with minimal downtime.

For more information about internal and external hemorrhoids in Los Angeles, and the different treatment options available for each, contact your colorectal specialist.