Suffering From Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are common in New Lenox, IL. Even though they are common, you may not understand what exactly they are and how to treat them. If they have reached a serious level, then a visit to the gastroenterologists at Digestive Disease Consultants is called for. In addition to the New Lenox office, we have an office in Bourbonnais, IL.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

The first time you see blood on the toilet paper it can be scary. Most times, this is caused by swollen or inflamed veins in or near your rectum or the lower part of your colon. Usually the blood will be after you have had a very hard stool or been straining to get it out. There are two types of hemorrhoids, internal and exterior. Some of them are visible on the exterior of the anus and others are internal. 

Causes of Hemorrhoids in New Lenox, IL

Many things can cause hemorrhoids including:

• Not having enough fiber in your diet
• Straining to pass stools
• Sitting for extended periods on the toilet
• Long standing constipation or diarrhea
• Pregnancy 
• Aging
• Lifting heavy objects on a regular basis
• Heredity-if your parents had them you are more likely to also get them

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids are itching, burning, throbbing, and bleeding. You may also notice the tender lumps located outside your rectum. They can be uncomfortable when you are sitting, and you will probably end up giving them more attention than they need by wiping, which can make them even more irritated. 

Treatments for Hemorrhoids

You can begin by treating your hemorrhoids at home with a few lifestyle changes. Make sure you drink lots of water, eat more fiber or take a fiber supplement. Stool softeners can also help. Try not to strain when having a bowel movement and don't spend extended periods just sitting on the toilet. Soaking in a sitz bath can help with the pain, and you may need to take OTC pain relievers. Hemorrhoid creams or ointments can offer immediate relief of pain and itching.

If you are not getting relief after a week of home treatment, it is time to get in touch with your gastroenterologist. It is also a good idea to get checked out when you have rectal bleeding. Other conditions can cause rectal bleeding, and you want to make sure that nothing else is going on. 

For treatment of hemorrhoids in New Lenox, and Bourbonnais, IL contact Digestive Disease Consultants. Our experienced gastroenterologists can help get you the relief you require. Give our office a call at (815) 937-5200.