Treatment Options for Those Who Suffer With the Pain of Hemorrhoids

There are very few painful medical conditions for which patients are reluctant to seek medical treatment. Hemorrhoidal pain is a condition that many people would rather suffer through than to consult a physician. Because of the stigma associated with hemorrhoids, many who have hemorrhoidal problems miss out on available treatment out of sheer embarrassment or shyness. Being a condition which is so highly prevalent in many different populations, it is one that is most under-diagnosed and treated, due to the discomfort involved in discussing it with others. Many treatment options are available to both cure and alleviate the symptoms. However, the biggest hurdle to treatment is getting people to get over their embarrassment and seek help.

What are Hemorrhoids and What Causes Them?

A hemorrhoid is made up of connective tissue and blood vessels located around and inside the anal canal. The connective tissue of the anal opening is lined with tissue that is meant to cushion and aid in the evacuation of feces. Increase in pressure with straining enlarges these vascular cushions. When located on the exterior, they can cause a considerable amount of discomfort especially when sitting or during certain activities. Internal hemorrhoids usually do not cause pain unless they are swollen and occasionally protrude through the anal opening.  Internal hemorrhoids can also rupture and bleed. Bleeding is usually bright red and can be brisk, which is often a cause for alarm.

There are many causes for hemorrhoids, greatest among them is constipation and activities that increase intraabdominal pressure. Pregnancy also causes an increased amount of abdominal pressure as well as hormonal changes which exacerbate constipation. Medications that are used for pain, or other health conditions can also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Individuals who have poor diets, or who do not get the physical activity required to maintain good health will also have a tendency to develop hemorroidal tissue.

Anytime there is rectal bleeding it is advised to seek medical attention to rule out other more serious health conditions. Although hemorrhoids rarely have any further  adverse medical effects, there are other conditions which have the same symptoms which are very serious and will require medical attention.

What Treatment Options are Available for Hemorrhoids?

There are many treatment options available for those who experience hemorrhoids in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, the only way to really cure a hemorrhoid is with surgical removal.There are other ways, however, to control the symptoms of hemorrhoids and to lessen the likelihood of flare-ups. The best method of control is through prevention. Simple diet changes can prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups. Since one of the biggest causes of hemorrhoids is constipation, maintaining a healthy diet, full of soluble fiber, is the best way to avoid constipation. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a good source of fiber, as are legumes and nuts. Lifestyle changes such as increasing your physical activity level is also a good way to control the risk of hemorrhoid development.

When dietary and lifestyles changes are not enough, sometimes fiber supplements or laxatives may be appropriate to maintain regular bowel habits. There are over-the-counter fiber supplements that when taken daily do a good job of keeping the digestive system regular. There are also many medications that can be purchased without a prescription that will aid in the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Analgesic and steroid creams and suppositories are also good at curbing the pain associated with hemorrhoidal flare-ups.

When maintenance through natural methods is not enough to control the symptoms of hemorrhoids, it may be necessary to seek medical attention in Los Angeles, or to consult a physician for more invasive surgical procedures which will remove hemorrhoids. Many treatment options are available that are done on an outpatient basis and will have you returning to daily activity in a short amount of time. There are many qualified clinicians in Los Angeles for you to discuss the options that are available for you to cure your hemorrhoidal pain.