Do you sometimes find it painful to make a bowel movement or sit down without pain? If so, you may have some of the signs of hemorrhoids in Plano, TX. When you visit Dr. Sindhu Abraham's office, you can get a professional diagnosis and access to proper treatments to help heal this condition.

What Causes Hemorrhoids in Plano, TX?

When veins begin to swell in the lower rectum or anus, it could be painful to make bowel movements or sit for prolonged periods. This condition can happen if you often strain when making bowel movements. Constantly sitting for long periods, whether on the toilet or at work, can also exacerbate the condition. Be mindful of your gastrointestinal health, as chronic diarrhea and constipation can pressure the rectum. Your diet plays a role, as insufficient fiber can exacerbate constipation, making bowel movements more difficult and causing strain. Anal intercourse, pregnancy, and being overweight are also risk factors for hemorrhoids.

What Are the Symptoms?

Your hemorrhoid symptoms depend on the type you have. Internal hemorrhoids usually don't cause pain but may cause bleeding when you make a bowel movement. You'll notice the blood in the toilet bowl or paper afterward. External hemorrhoids have more obvious symptoms that also include bleeding along with swelling, pain, and itching in the area. You may also notice a hard, discolored lump on your rectum from where a blood clot forms. If you have internal hemorrhoids that stretch down and bulge outside the anus, these are called prolapsed hemorrhoids. Their position can result in irritation and pain in the area.

What Are My Treatment Options?

Normally, the easiest way to treat hemorrhoids is with lifestyle changes and home treatment. Your doctor will advise you to drink lots of water and adjust your diet to ensure you have enough fiber. So start eating more vegetables and healthy grains. Adjusting your diet to include more fiber can help prevent straining during bowel movements. If you sit most of the day, try to get up and stretch more and keep your weight down. If you still have chronic hemorrhoids, despite non-invasive attempts to cure them, your doctor can perform procedures such as rubber band irrigation or surgical removal.