Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal that can form internally or externally. These swollen groups of veins can be very painful and even embarrassing. But hemorrhoids are common and affect millions of men and women.
During a bowel movement, sensitive tissues inside the anus fill with blood. The strain of a bowel movement puts pressure on this tissue, making the veins swell and eventually forming hemorrhoids.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:
- Itching
- Rectal pain
- Blood on toilet tissue or in your stool
Hemorrhoids typically accompany bowel incontinence and can be very painful. As a result of increased pressure on their pelvic regions, pregnant women and overweight individuals are more likely to develop hemorrhoids. Depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid banding may be recommended.
Hemorrhoid banding is a treatment option for the development of severe internal, and in some cases, external hemorrhoids. During the hemorrhoid banding procedure, the hemorrhoid is tied off by a small rubberized material, which is essentially a clinical-grade rubber band.
When performed successfully, this procedure discontinues the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually die. Scar tissue develops in place of the old hemorrhoid, strengthening the area and ultimately decreasing the likelihood that a new hemorrhoid will form. Hemorrhoid banding is a common, outpatient procedure with a fast recovery rate of about seven to ten days.
