If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, you probably have lots of questions. Dr. Sunny Lo of SoCal Digestive Wellness in Arcadia, CA is a board-certified and fellowship-trained gastroenterologist. He is imminently qualified to diagnose and treat this condition.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are veins in the rectum or around the anus that have become swollen and inflamed. They may be located either internally or externally. About half of all adults over 50 years of age suffer from this condition. You may notice that you have lumps on or near your anus, and they can be very itchy. Sometimes they bleed and may be painful to sit on.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are caused by many things, but one of them is not sitting on a cold surface. That is a myth. Spicy food doesn't cause them either. What does cause them is eating a diet that doesn't have enough fiber. Without fiber, you may suffer from constipation and that is a common cause of hemorrhoids. Pregnant women and those who are overweight are more prone to hemorrhoids and if you have a family history of the condition, chances are good you may get them as well.

How To Prevent Hemorrhoids?

The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to make sure that you have a diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables. You also need to drink lots of water or other fluids. If you don't get enough fiber from your food, consider taking a fiber supplement. Try not to spend too long just sitting, try to get plenty of  exercise. Don't delay going to the bathroom when you feel the urge. 

Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Treatment usually begins at home. You can try over the counter hemorrhoid cream,lotion, or suppositories to reduce the itch and swelling. Sitz baths can also help. If you don't get relief from your home treatments in a week, it is time to see your gastroenterologist. 

Gastroenterologists have a banding treatment that is very effective in getting rid of hemorrhoids. They use suction to place a band at the base of the hemorrhoids. This cuts off the supply of blood and within a few days the hemorrhoid dries up and falls off. This can be done on internal and external hemorrhoids. It only takes a few minutes to perform and there is no downtime involved.

To get in touch with Dr. Lo of SoCal Digestive Wellness to make an appointment for your hemorrhoids in Arcadia, CA,  give us a call at (818) 659-5887 or drop us a line via our website.