Hemorrhoids are a common problem that usually resolves independently with at-home care. But if you have hemorrhoids that cause pain, general surgeon Laureen Forgione-Rubino, M.D., F.A.C.S, and the team in Manchester, Connecticut, can help. Dr. Forgione-Rubino offers many treatment options for removing hemorrhoids. To schedule an appointment at the general surgery practice of Laureen Forgione-Rubino, M.D., F.A.C.S., call the office or book online today.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur in the lower rectum or anus. Your rectum is the last section of your digestive tract and holds and eliminates stool. The tissue that makes up the rectum is stretchy. Unfortunately, this function also stretches the blood vessels.
When the blood vessels stretch, the walls expand, allowing blood to pool. When there’s too much pressure on the blood vessels, they protrude, resulting in hemorrhoids.
There are two main types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
Internal hemorrhoids develop in the lower rectum. These hemorrhoids usually don’t cause pain but may bleed during a bowel movement.
Internal hemorrhoids may prolapse, or fall out of the rectum through the anal opening, which can cause pain.
External hemorrhoids develop on the sensitive anal tissue. With these hemorrhoids, you may have some itching and pain. External hemorrhoids may also form blood clots, becoming thrombosed hemorrhoids. These types of hemorrhoids cause severe pain, especially when trying to sit.
If you have hemorrhoids, you should first talk to your primary care provider to discuss treatment options. In most cases, making a few lifestyle changes may ease your symptoms and improve the condition. These changes might include:
Your provider may also suggest stool softeners to improve bowel movements.
If conservative care fails to improve your hemorrhoids and they continue to cause discomfort, then it’s time to consult with the team at the office of Laureen Forgione-Rubino, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Forgione-Rubino performs two procedures for hemorrhoids:
Dr. Forgione-Rubino does the rubber band ligation at the office. During this procedure, she places a rubber band around the hemorrhoid, cutting off the blood supply. The hemorrhoid dries out and falls off.
A hemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of hemorrhoids. Dr. Forgione-Rubino performs this procedure in a surgical suite. Using a stapling instrument, Dr. Forgione-Rubino removes the hemorrhoid.
To discuss treatment options for your hemorrhoids, call the office of Laureen Forgione-Rubino, M.D., F.A.C.S., or schedule an appointment online today.