What Are Hemorrhoids and How Do They Develop?

Hemorrhoids are a common yet often misunderstood condition that can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life. At NEAD Health Colon and Pilonidal Clinic (formerly Texas Colon and Pilonidal Clinic), with locations in The Woodlands and Cypress, TX, Dr. Nsikak Umoh and his team specialize in diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids with expert care and compassion. Whether you’re dealing with mild symptoms or more severe discomfort, Dr. Umoh and his practice are here to help you find relief and get back to living your life.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the lower rectum or around the anus. Think of them as varicose veins, but in a much more sensitive area. They can develop internally, inside the rectum, or externally, under the skin around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are typically painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be more uncomfortable, often causing itching, swelling, and even pain if a blood clot forms (a condition known as thrombosed hemorrhoids).

How Do Hemorrhoids Develop?

Hemorrhoids develop when there’s increased pressure on the veins in the rectal or anal area. This pressure causes the veins to stretch, swell, and sometimes even bulge. There are several factors that can contribute to this increased pressure, including:

• Straining During Bowel Movements: Chronic constipation or diarrhea can lead to excessive straining, which puts stress on the veins.
• Prolonged Sitting: Spending long periods sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure in the rectal area.
• Pregnancy: The weight of the baby and hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic and rectal veins.
• Aging: As we age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely.

How NEAD Health Colon and Pilonidal Clinic Can Help

At NEAD Health Colon and Pilonidal Clinic, Dr. Nsikak Umoh and his team take a patient-centered approach to treating hemorrhoids. They understand that this condition can be uncomfortable to talk about, which is why they create a welcoming and supportive environment where patients feel at ease.

The first step in addressing hemorrhoids is a thorough evaluation to determine the type and severity of the condition. Dr. Umoh will discuss your symptoms, perform any necessary examinations, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated to promote regular bowel movements. For more severe cases, Dr. Umoh offers advanced, minimally invasive procedures to provide relief and address the underlying issue. These treatments are designed to be effective while minimizing discomfort and downtime, so you can get back to your routine as quickly as possible.

Why Choose NEAD Health Colon and Pilonidal Clinic?

With locations in The Woodlands and Cypress, TX, NEAD Health Colon and Pilonidal Clinic are dedicated to providing expert care for conditions like hemorrhoids. Dr. Nsikak Umoh brings years of experience and a compassionate approach to every patient he treats. Schedule an appointment at one of their convenient locations in The Woodlands or Cypress, TX, to learn more about your treatment options. Visit txcolon.com to learn more.