Hemorrhoids, also named piles, are swollen and enlarged veins in the anus and lower rectum. There are two categories of hemorrhoids: external hemorrhoids where swollen veins are found under the skin around the anus, while internal hemorrhoids where the swollen veins are inside the rectum. Either case, this condition is often painful and uncomfortable. Rapid Healthcare provides both the diagnosis, management and treatment of hemorrhoids at our walk-in clinic in Joliet, IL.
Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins but located around or inside the rectum. 75% of adults will have hemorrhoids occasionally, but some individuals have frequent and painful episodes. External hemorrhoids can result in pain, itching and swelling in the anal region. Internal hemorrhoids are not as uncomfortable, but you may experience bleeding when passing stool.
Hemorrhoids occur due to increased pressure on the veins in the rectum. Some risk factors for developing hemorrhoids include:
- Obesity
- Low fiber diet
- Straining while passing stool
- Heavy lifting
- Anal sexual intercourse
- Pregnancy
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
While most hemorrhoids will heal and dissipate with home treatment, if a hemorrhoid persists for more than a week, medical treatment may be needed.
Treatments for Hemorrhoids
Diagnosing hemorrhoids may include a digital rectal exam, sigmoidoscopy and anoscopy. Some of the available treatments that our medical team administers include infrared coagulation, sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation. For chronic hemorrhoid conditions, referral for surgeries such as hemorrhoidectomy and hemorrhoid stapling may be given. Patient education on preventing hemorrhoids or how to manage the disease at home are also provided by the clinic for self-management. Through our telehealth services, patients can easily ask questions about the disease, especially on its management, without needing to come into the clinic.
If you have ongoing problems with hemorrhoids, come see our team at Rapid Healthcare. We offer advanced diagnosis and treatment for external and internal hemorrhoids to give you relief. Contact our clinic to make an appointment or stop by our walk-in clinic in Joliet, IL, for a same day hemorrhoid appointment. We welcome new patients, and our clinic accepts most healthcare insurance plans.