Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels – rather like varicose veins – that occur inside and around the anus and lower portion of the rectum. There are two types of hemorrhoids: inner and outer. Hemorrhoids can cause a wide range of symptoms and should be treated before they become severe. If you suffer from hemorrhoids you can have them treated by a gastroenterologist. Dr. Anubha Sinha is a gastroenterologist at Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists in Hillsborough and Flemington NJ. She can meet with you to discuss treatment options for your hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids Symptoms
Hemorrhoid signs and symptoms differ based on the type of hemorrhoid.
External Hemorrhoids
This type of hemorrhoid develops beneath the skin around your anus. Hillsborough gastroenterologist patients who have external hemorrhoids may experience the following signs and symptoms:
- Irritation or itching around the anus
- Discomfort or pain when sitting or having a bowel movement
- Swollen lumps around the anus
- Bleeding during or after a bowel movement
Internal Hemorrhoids
This type of hemorrhoid develops inside the lower rectum. Although you can’t usually feel them when you pass a stool you may experience:
- Bleeding during or after a bowel movement
- Hemorrhoid may bulge through the opening of the anus causing discomfort (this is known as a prolapsed hemorrhoid
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
A thrombosed hemorrhoid causes a clot to develop inside external hemorrhoids.
- Severe discomfort
- Swelling and inflammation
- A hard node near the anus
If your hemorrhoids do not resolve or improve after a week, or you notice bleeding during a bowel movement, you should talk to a Hillsborough gastroenterologist. The bleeding may not always be caused by hemorrhoids. It can also be caused by other underlying causes such as anal or colorectal cancer.
If you would like to talk to Dr. Anubha Sinha about hemorrhoid treatment, you can reach Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists at the Hillsborough or Flemington NJ offices at (908) 788-8200.