Do You Have These Risk Factors For the Development of Enlarged Hemorrhoids?

Your anal canal is full of blood vessels. When one of those blood vessels gets enlarged, a hemorrhoid forms. Hemorrhoids can either develop inside the rectum (internal) or outside the anus (external). 

In some cases, blood clots can form inside a hemorrhoid, which can cause it to swell and exacerbate already uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, bleeding, and pain while sitting, standing, or using the toilet. 

Enlarged or swollen hemorrhoids with blood clots inside are known as thrombosed hemorrhoids. While there is no exact known cause of thrombosed hemorrhoids, several things can put you at higher risk for developing one. 

At the Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Town and Country, Missouri, Betsy F. Clemens, MD, leads our team in diagnosing and treating thrombosed hemorrhoids. In this month's blog, we discuss risk factors for thrombosed hemorrhoids and how we can help treat them. 

Common risk factors for thrombosed hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are incredibly common. It’s estimated that three out of every four people will develop at least one hemorrhoid in their lifetime. 

The main trigger for hemorrhoid development is increased pressure on the veins in your rectum, so anything that increases rectal pressure can put you at risk for one, especially ones that swell and form blood clots. 

These are some things that often lead to thrombosed hemorrhoids:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Increased physical exertion, especially from lifting heavy items
• Sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods 
• Constipation and straining too much on the toilet
• Anal intercourse

If your hemorrhoid develops a blood clot, it will become incredibly painful for at least 48 hours while the blood clot is reabsorbed. You may also notice that the hemorrhoid is bluish in color. 

Even though thrombosed hemorrhoids are painful, they aren’t and should heal on their own. 

When to seek treatment for thrombosed hemorrhoids

Thrombosed hemorrhoids can usually be treated with conservative, at-home treatments such as warm baths, topical ointments, and increased fiber and fluid intake. However, if you're in much pain after a few days, please see our team for expert-level treatment. 

If necessary, Dr. Clemens can drain the hemorrhoid, giving you pain relief and keeping the hemorrhoid from returning. It's a very effective outpatient procedure. 

During your visit, our team can also discuss your risk factors for thrombosed hemorrhoids. Once we identify them, we can provide some helpful ways you can decrease your risk of developing one in the future. 

For thrombosed hemorrhoid care, call or use our online booking feature to schedule an appointment with our Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center team today.