Hemorrhoids in Ocean Springs, MS
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Find a ProviderWhat is a hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are irritated veins near the lower anus or rectum. The problem often occurs when the walls of the veins in the rectum or anus become so thin that the veins protrude or bulge. Hemorrhoids can present internally (within the rectum) or externally (on the anus).
Hemorrhoids are not uncommon. As a matter of fact, close to three out of four adults will experience hemorrhoids at some time(s). Sometimes, a blood clot will grow within a hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid) and may cause discomfort or pain. The board-certified gastrointestinal specialists at Digestive Health Center are experts in helping patients with this common condition and other gastrointestinal (GI) situations. To find care for hemorrhoids in Ocean Springs, MS, please reach out to our team at a location near you as soon as possible.
What are the causes of hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids may be the result of an array of things. Causes of a hemorrhoid can include:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Being overweight
- Aging
- Straining too hard to perform physical activity (such as weight lifting)
- Pregnancy
- Family history of hemorrhoids
- Ongoing constipation
- Standing or sitting for extended periods of time
- Straining during bowel movements
What are some symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Presentation of hemorrhoids can be varied depending on the area affected by the hemorrhoids, but most often include:
- Bright red blood in one's stool
- Pain surrounding the anus while performing physical activities
- Pain and/or inflammation surrounding the anus
- Itching around the anus
- Purple, pink, or blue bumps that protrude near the anus
- Discomfort during the passing of stool
How are hemorrhoids treated?
In some cases, lesser hemorrhoids may heal on their own after a week or less. Your Digestive Health Center specialist may prescribe medications or suggest home remedies to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids. However, when larger hemorrhoids occur, medical intervention is available in Ocean Springs, MS as it may be necessary to excise the hemorrhoid or address it in another way. Typical hemorrhoid treatments include:
- Treatment of constipation or the primary cause of the hemorrhoids
- Hemorrhoid stapling
- Rubber band ligation
- A high fiber diet
- Draining a clotted hemorrhoid (thrombosis)
- Ice packs to reduce anal swelling
- Maintaining a clean anal region
- Application of topical cream
- Tub baths several times daily in warm water
- Surgical Intervention
- Sclerotherapy
- Avoiding the use of dry toilet paper
- Coagulation
Hemorrhoids FAQs
Can you prevent the development of hemorrhoids?
There are certain things you can do to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids — or, at the very minimum, minimize their impact. This may involve lifestyle changes like:
- Avoid sitting for extended periods: Ensure you take breaks throughout the day. For example, take a brief walk every 1 – 2 hours.
- Consume foods high in fiber: This includes fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and more. If you find it challenging to eat an adequate amount of fiber, a fiber supplement may be something to consider.
- Drink adequate amounts of water
- Get regular exercise
- Go to the restroom as soon as you have the urge rather than waiting until later
Are there certain foods I should not eat if I have a hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids are frequently caused by chronic constipation, so implementing certain dietary changes may be ideal if you have this GI condition. Our Ocean Springs, MS gastrointestinal physicians may recommend avoiding foods low in fiber. This includes foods such as processed foods, ice cream, cheese, chips, and fast food. During your consultation, we can discuss additional details on what to avoid eating if you've been diagnosed with hemorrhoids.
Will an over-the-counter cream improve hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoid creams purchased over the counter can be a good method to alleviate symptoms such as itching and swelling. In some instances, they might even help address small hemorrhoids. However, they typically do not provide the most effective approach to care. Since OTC hemorrhoid creams fail to address the root cause of hemorrhoids, it's likely that hemorrhoids will return without professional medical care.
How long do hemorrhoids persist?
The type and degree of hemorrhoid that has developed will dictate the length of time it will remain. As far as internal hemorrhoids go, smaller cases typically clear up within a few days to one week. Larger hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can take up to several weeks to improve or require professional medical treatment. External hemorrhoids usually need to be treated by a healthcare provider. Treatment options might include nutritional and lifestyle changes, nonprescription medications, a procedure like hemorrhoid banding, surgery, or a different type of care.
Timely treatment for hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids typically don't progress to serious health issues, but they can be bothersome and wreak havoc on your quality of life. If you find yourself needing assistance with hemorrhoid treatment in Ocean Springs, MS, our physicians are here to assist. We encourage you to reach out to Digestive Health Center to request a consultation with a gastroenterology specialist in your community.
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Dr McNair has treated me since 1983. My Mother n law was seriously ill in SRH. Dr McNair came in ICU and saved her life. That year 1983 I made an appt to be one of his patients. He had not been on the Coast very long at all. But took me as new patient…I still am a patient of Dr A McNair. He’s Brilliant. I love the whole team❤️ May 1, 2023
Amazing physician!!! Always listens to your concerns and has amazing bedside manner! She is very kind, thorough, and patient! Definitely recommend!!!
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Dr McNair is extremely knowledgeable in his profession and has an excellent bedside manner. He explains what he is doing in terms that I can understand. Him and his staff is always professional!!!
I am definitely appreciative & thankful for Dr. Angela Pressley Wallace. She is very easy to work with, honest, understanding, very knowledgeable about her career being a physician, cares for her patients, terrific leader, kind hearted, genuine. One of the best & top Gastroenterologist Physicians in the Gulfport, MS area. I highly recommend Dr. Angela Pressley Wallace❗️You will not be disappointed.
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