Department of Surgery

Division of Colorectal Surgery

Conditions We Treat

Hemorrhoids

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemmorhoids are inflamed and swollen veins around the lower rectum or anus. They most often result from straining to have a bowel movement, pregnancy, aging, chronic constipation, or diarrhea.

Hemmorhoids may be internal (inside the anus) or external (under the skin around the anus). An internal condition can be identified by bright red blood during a bowel movement. Hemmorhoids also can protrude from the anus, becoming itchy and painful. An external hemmorhoid can be felt as a painful swelling or hard lump that results when a blood clot forms in the vein.

Learn more about Hemorrhoids

Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are seldom life threatening, but they can cause significant discomfort and be a major nuisance. Treatment includes such measures as sitz baths, dietary changes to emphasize fiber, and over-the-counter medications that soothe symptoms. In chronic cases, hemmorhoids are treated surgically.