Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in or around the anus and lower rectum. They develop when too much pressure is placed on these veins. External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids develop in the lining of the anus or rectum. 

Signs and Causes of Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoid symptoms vary based on type:  

  • External hemorrhoids may cause anal itching, swelling, and pain. 
  • Internal hemorrhoids may cause rectal bleeding.  

The common causes of hemorrhoids include: 

  • Constipation 
  • Low-fiber diet 
  • Aging  
  • Poor bathroom habits 

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids 

At Cooper, your doctor can diagnose hemorrhoids based on your medical history and by performing a physical exam. Our experts will check the area around your anus, perform a digital rectal exam, or other necessary procedures to look inside your anus and rectum to accurately diagnose and recommend a treatment.  

  • Physical exam. An exam is done to check your anus and rectum and look for swollen blood vessels. 
  • Digital rectum examination (DRE). Your doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to check for any problems. 
  • Anoscopy. A hollow, lighted tube is put into your anus to see internal hemorrhoids. 
  • Proctoscopy. A lighted tube is put into your anus to see your rectum. 
  • Sigmoidoscopy. This test checks the inside of part of your large intestine and helps to determine what may be causing diarrhea, belly pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube (sigmoidoscope) is put into your intestine through the rectum.  

Treatment Options  

Your care plan will be tailored to your health, symptoms, and preferences. Treatment depends on the type and severity of hemorrhoids and may include at-home, in-office, or surgical management. 

At-home management 

You can manage and treat most hemorrhoid symptoms at home with lifestyle changes, including:  

  • Eating foods that are high in fiber 
  • Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement  
  • Drinking water or other nonalcoholic liquids 
  • Not straining during bowel movements 
  • Not sitting on the toilet for long periods of time 
  • Using hemorrhoid creams, ointments, or suppositories 
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers  
  • Sitting in a tub of warm water (called a sitz bath) several times a day to help relieve pain 

Schedule an appointment with your doctor if your symptoms persist after a week of self-care or if you have significant pain or bleeding. 

In-office or surgical treatments  

If you are not able to effectively manage your hemorrhoids at home, your doctor may refer you to a colorectal surgeon may recommend one of the following treatments that can be performed during an office visit, in an outpatient surgery center, or in the hospital. 

  • Rubber band ligation – a special rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off  
  • Sclerotherapy – a solution is injected into an internal hemorrhoid to shrink the hemorrhoid by causing scar tissue. 
  • Infrared photocoagulation –infrared light is used to create scar tissue, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid and shrinking it. 
  • Electrocoagulation – an electric current shrinks an internal hemorrhoid by causing scar tissue to form, cutting off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid 
  • Hemorrhoidectomy – surgical removal of large external hemorrhoids or prolapsing internal hemorrhoids 
  • Hemorrhoid stapling – a special stapling tool removes internal hemorrhoid tissue and repositions prolapsed hemorrhoids.  

Prevention Tips 

You can lower your risk of developing hemorrhoids by eating high-fiber foods, which can make your stools softer and easier to pass. Drinking water and other liquids such as fruit juices and clear soups, can help the fiber in your diet work better. 

Why Choose Cooper for Hemorrhoid Care 

  • Expert diagnosis and treatment: hemorrhoid symptoms can sometimes look like other conditions. Our physicians are experts at determining the exact cause of your symptoms and creating the most effective treatment plan while coordinating with other Cooper experts if needed. 
  • Team-based approach: our board-certified primary care providers, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons work together to ensure you receive the comprehensive, personalized treatment you need. 
  • Advanced treatment options: If surgery is needed, we offer minimally invasive techniques that reduce pain, bleeding, and recovery time. 

Schedule an Appointment  

To learn more about services we offer for hemorrhoids or to make an appointment, call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737). 

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