Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures: Relief Without Embarrassment

Few people like talking about hemorrhoids or rectal pain, so many put up with symptoms far longer than they need to. These conditions are extremely common, and our surgeons treat them every day. The right diagnosis leads to treatment that actually helps.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. They can be caused by straining, constipation, pregnancy, sitting for long periods or heavy lifting.

• Internal hemorrhoids: often cause painless bright red bleeding and may bulge out (prolapse) during bowel movements.
• External hemorrhoids: sit under the skin around the anus and may cause itching, swelling or a painful lump if a clot forms.

Anal fissures

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing a hard or large stool. Fissures typically cause sharp pain during bowel movements that may linger for hours afterward, along with small amounts of bright red blood.

Start with simple steps

Many hemorrhoids and new fissures improve with:

• More fiber from food or a supplement, plus plenty of water
• Stool softeners if needed, and not straining
• Warm sitz baths for 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day
• Limiting time sitting on the toilet

Your doctor may also prescribe creams or ointments to relieve pain or help a fissure heal.

When office procedures or surgery help

If symptoms don't improve, a colorectal or general surgeon can offer more options:

• Rubber band ligation: a quick office procedure for internal hemorrhoids that cuts off their blood supply so they shrink and fall off
• Hemorrhoidectomy: surgical removal for large or severe hemorrhoids
• Botox® injection or lateral internal sphincterotomy: for chronic fissures that haven't healed with other treatment

This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have symptoms, please see your healthcare provider.