Your Secret Hemorrhoid Questions Answered

Although hemorrhoids are very common, they still remain a bit of a tricky subject for most people. It can be difficult to find a way to relieve the pain and discomfort hemorrhoids cause. Many people turn to the internet for help, but this can be a vast and not always trustworthy source of information.

Hemorrhoids, much like a stomach virus or a persistent cough, have become a topic rife with old wives’ tales and myths passed down through the years, with at-home remedies favored even when found unsuccessful.

To help in your search to relieve hemorrhoids, San Francisco Gastroenterology has compiled a list of some of the top questions that people with hemorrhoids frequently ask.

At-home hemorrhoid relief or professional?

There are options for those who wish to try relieving hemorrhoids at home. Some of these include alternating between applying ice and warm compresses to the affected area several times per day, taking a sitz bath, using non-prescription pain killers and changing your soap to a non-perfumed, non-dyed version. For some, these options may provide relief. For others, the relief is either temporary or not enough to return to a normal routine.

For those who have tried an at-home hemorrhoid remedy and were dissatisfied with the results, we recommend that you visit your gastroenterologist for hemorrhoid banding. Hemorrhoid banding, or the CRH O’Regan System, uses a small rubber band which is slipped over the base of each hemorrhoid. The pressure from the rubber band causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually fall off. Hemorrhoid banding is nonsurgical and completely relieves your symptoms of pain and discomfort.

What makes hemorrhoids worse?

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Sitting for extended periods of time
• High amounts of laxatives, processed foods, alcohol, iron, fried foods, dairy products
• Chronic constipation and/or chronic diarrhea

Can hemorrhoids bleed?

Yes, hemorrhoids can bleed during a bowel movement. This should be painless, but if you experience discomfort or heavy bleeding, please contact SFGI and talk to your doctor about these symptoms.

How long does it take for a hemorrhoid to go away?

This depends on a few factors: are you experiencing one hemorrhoid or several? Are you using an at- home remedy or are you receiving professional treatment such as hemorrhoid banding?

If an at-home remedy is providing relief, then most people find that their symptoms can last for a week or two. However, if symptoms persist and hemorrhoid banding is used, your hemorrhoids will be gone after three visits to SFGI.