What are hemorrhoids and how are they treated?
Hemorrhoids are masses of blood vessels that occur at the anal verge. All individuals have three hemorrhoids. Each hemorrhoid has an external component (covered by skin) and an internal component (covered by rectal mucosa). External hemorrhoids cause problems if a painful blood clot develops. This is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Internal hemorrhoids cause problems if they enlarge and bleed or protrude through the anus. Hemorrhoids usually do not cause severe pain unless a blood clot (or thrombosis) is present. Other causes of rectal pain include anal fissure and anorectal abscess. Pruritis (itching) is more likely a skin problem or a hygienic problem rather than due to hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids and other anorectal conditions can be diagnosed by a fairly simple and relatively painless examination in the office. Hemorrhoids may be treated by: (1) Medical measures such as fiber, tub soaks, and hydrocortisone topically (2) Rubber band ligation (3) Infrared photocoagulation or (4) Surgi
