Hemorrhoids Specialist

Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A.

Gastroenterology & Hepatology located in Annapolis, MD, Kent Island, MD, Odenton, MD, Bowie, MD, Pasadena, MD & Greenbelt, MD

It’s estimated that hemorrhoids affect about half of all adults by the time they reach age 50. Most people suffer from their hemorrhoids for a long time before seeking help. The gastroenterology team at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A., with office locations in Annapolis, Stevensville, Odenton, Bowie, and Pasadena, Maryland, takes a patient-centered approach to care. They offer many effective treatments for hemorrhoids to reduce discomfort and prevent recurrence. To get help for your hemorrhoids, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

410-224-2116

Hemorrhoids Q & A

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins that develop around the anus or lower rectum. Too much pressure on the veins in your rectum may cause hemorrhoids.

The risk of developing hemorrhoids increases as you get older.

What are the types of hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are either internal or external.

Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids develop in the lower rectum. You can’t see or feel these types of hemorrhoids, but they may bleed during a bowel movement.

Internal hemorrhoids may prolapse, which means they push through the anal opening. A prolapsed hemorrhoid may cause pain.

External hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids occur in the sensitive anal tissue. These hemorrhoids may cause itching or pain, and they may bleed.

External hemorrhoids may also become thrombosed, which is when a blood clot forms in the enlarged vein. A thrombosed hemorrhoid may cause a hard lump and severe pain.

When should I get medical help for my hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids may resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, the experts at Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates recommend you seek medical help for your hemorrhoids if your symptoms don’t improve within a week.

They also recommend an evaluation if you have rectal bleeding. Though hemorrhoids are a common cause, rectal bleeding may also be a symptom of a more serious gastrointestinal condition, such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

How are hemorrhoids treated?

Your gastroenterologist develops a personalized treatment plan for your hemorrhoids based on their type, your symptoms, and your personal preferences.

Initially, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes to ease your symptoms, such as not spending too much time sitting on the toilet, adding more fiber and fluids to your diet, and soaking your hemorrhoids in a sitz bath several times a day.

For persistent bleeding or painful hemorrhoids, your gastroenterologist may recommend a minimally invasive procedure such as:

Hemorrhoid banding

Hemorrhoid banding treats internal hemorrhoids. During the procedure, your gastroenterologist places a rubber band around the enlarged vein. The banding cuts off the hemorrhoid’s blood supply, causing it to shrink and die within a week.

Infrared coagulation

Infrared coagulation treats small and medium-sized internal hemorrhoids. During the procedure, your gastroenterologist uses infrared light energy to heat the hemorrhoid and create scar tissue that cuts off its blood supply.

For large symptomatic hemorrhoids, your gastroenterologist may suggest a hemorrhoidectomy, which is the surgical removal of the hemorrhoids.

There’s no need to suffer from hemorrhoids. To discuss your treatment options, call Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. or schedule an appointment with online booking.

What we offer