According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, approximately 20% of adults have experienced hemorrhoid problems at some point in their lives. The risk increases as you get older and more than half of the adults over 50 years old live with hemorrhoid issues. At Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists in Flemington, NJ, Dr. Anubha Sinha diagnoses and treats hemorrhoids for people in Flemington, or Hillsborough, NJ, and surrounding areas.
What is a Hemorrhoid?
Also known as a pile, a hemorrhoid is a natural structure that protects the lining of your anal canal when you have a bowel movement. The structures, also known as piles, are located under your skin and contain several small blood vessels. The piles aren’t noticeable until a problem develops. The small sacs may become irritated, inflamed, and filled with blood. This may develop around the outside of your anus or within the lower rectum.
Hemorrhoid Treatments
Hemorrhoid swelling and inflammation may heal without treatment, and over-the-counter medications are effective as well. Dr. Sinha recommends medical intervention if you have a chronic or ongoing hemorrhoid. Treatment also helps reduce the risk of complications, such as blood clots, infections, skin abnormalities, and lack of blood supply to the tissues. At Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists, Dr. Sinha offers an advanced, minimally-invasive treatment for people living with hemorrhoids in Flemington, Hillsborough, NJ, and surrounding areas.
Tips for Managing Your Hemorrhoid
An inflamed and irritated hemorrhoid can be managed by taking some steps at home. Soaking in a warm bath helps reduce the swelling. If your toilet paper feels rough on your skin, use moist wipes instead. Cold compresses help to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
How to Reduce Your Risk
You can take steps to reduce your risk of developing a swollen and inflamed hemorrhoid. One of the most important changes is to make sure that you get plenty of fiber each day. Be sure to drink enough water, as well. If you have trouble with a bowel movement, try not to strain. This puts excessive pressure on the hemorrhoid structures. Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Take breaks to stand and stretch, and get plenty of exercise.
Hemorrhoids are common in Flemington, or Hillsborough, NJ, and surrounding areas, but you don’t have to suffer alone. Call Hunterdon Digestive Health Specialists in Flemington, NJ, today at (908) 788-8200 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sinha.