USA Hemorrhoid Centers is pleased to announce its expansion opening of new locations across the country. The outpatient provider of non-surgical hemorrhoid treatments has now expanded to over 25 locations, getting attention from newspapers such as Patch and the Associated Press (AP).
Each of these locations are a part of a larger network of interventional radiologists who perform minimally invasive procedures for chronic conditions. For more information, read the full articles from Patch below.
Can prolonged sitting, which is uncomfortable for many people, also lead to hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum. Prolonged sitting can contribute to hemorrhoids or worsen existing ones by causing anal veins to lose elasticity and become swollen. Factors such as how long you sit and the type of surface impact how prone anal veins are to swelling and inflammation.
Hemorrhoids are preventable, so even people who tend to sit for long periods for work or travel can avoid these issues. They’re also treatable with non-surgical options, offering long-term relief from discomfort, pain while sitting, and other symptoms.
Yes, sitting for a long time puts extra pressure on the blood vessels in your bottom and slows the blood moving in and out of that area. This makes it harder for any existing hemorrhoids to get better and increases the chances of them getting bigger or causing more problems.
Prolonged sitting can become increasingly painful if internal hemorrhoids are prolapsed, meaning they’ve become severe enough to slip outside of the anus and don’t return to their original position on their own.
Hemorrhoids can also take longer to heal with long periods of sitting. The extra pressure on the veins and reduced blood flow mean slower healing and a higher risk that the hemorrhoids will progress.
VIEW OTHER HEMORRHOID SYMPTOMS
Sitting for long periods, whether at work, during travel, while on the toilet, or for another reason, is a risk factor for hemorrhoid development. There’s pressure on the rectal area when sitting, which can be worse on a hard surface or with poor posture. Circulation also slows down, impacting the flow of blood to rectal and anal veins.
When sitting, the muscles of the buttocks region spread out, which causes rectal and anal veins to stretch. These veins have less elasticity, making them more fragile and likely to swell.
Slower circulation to the pelvic region when sitting can cause blood to pool, filling the already stretched veins with blood and leading to swelling and inflammation.
Poor posture while on the toilet can also play a role in hemorrhoid development. When sitting with the feet flat on the floor and the back straight, the rectum is constrained, increasing pressure on the veins. Putting the feet on a stool so the knees are raised can relax the rectum, helping to protect the veins from excessive pressure.
CAUSES OF INTERNAL HEMORRHOIDS
Sitting on the toilet for too long due to constipation can cause hemorrhoids or make existing ones worse. While on the toilet, the rectum is lower than the rest of the buttocks, which causes gravity to push on the veins and blood to pool. Pressure from straining during a bowel movement can cause the veins to swell.
Here are some tips to help reduce bowel-related strain:
If you sit a lot, there are steps you can take to help prevent hemorrhoids.
If hemorrhoids persist for more than a few days or worsen, procedures like hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) can offer relief. HAE is a non-surgical procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It targets the root cause of hemorrhoids by reducing blood flow to the swollen veins, causing them to shrink.
HAE is a low-risk, painless procedure with a short recovery time, and it’s a good treatment option for hemorrhoids that don’t heal on their own.
It is possible for hemorrhoids to develop from sitting too much. Prolonged sitting can also worsen hemorrhoids or slow healing.
Making lifestyle changes to reduce sitting time, prevent constipation, and relieve pressure on anal and rectal veins can help prevent hemorrhoids from developing and ease the pain and discomfort caused by existing hemorrhoids. If hemorrhoid symptoms interfere with your daily life or persist, however, it’s important to see a hemorrhoid doctor for treatment.
USA Hemorrhoid Centers is America’s leading network of hemorrhoid treatment centers. Our doctors have expertise in treating hemorrhoids non-surgically with HAE and can create a personalized treatment plan to help you get relief. Find a hemorrhoid center near you to schedule a consultation with one of our expert doctors.
If you notice hemorrhoid pain when sitting, discomfort, or other symptoms, such as itching or bleeding, you may have hemorrhoids. Your sitting habits might be the cause, or they could make existing hemorrhoids worse by weakening the veins and increasing swelling and inflammation.
Standing desks are better than chairs for preventing hemorrhoids because they help you avoid prolonged sitting. There’s less pressure on anal and rectal veins when standing at a desk.
Yes, exercise can help with hemorrhoids caused by sitting. Physical activity improves circulation and supports better vein health.
About
Dr. Yan Katsnelson
Organizations
Founder of USA Vein Clinics, USA Fibroid Centers, USA Vascular Centers, USA Hemorrhoid Centers, USA Pain Center, USA Prostate Centers, USA Longevity Centers and USA Oncology Centers
Dr. Yan Katsnelson is an entrepreneur, highly skilled cardiac surgeon, business owner, and philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO of USA Hemorrhoid Centers which is part of USA Clinics Group – the parent company of USA Fibroid Centers, USA Vascular Centers, USA Vein Clincs, USA Prostate Centers, USA Pain Center, USA Longevity Centers, and USA Oncology Centers. Dr. Katsnelson has established himself as a strong advocate for accessible, affordable, and compassionate healthcare services.
As the CEO of USA Clinics Group, Dr. Katsnelson has pioneered expanding minimally invasive options that provide high-quality care using the latest technology in the most advanced facilities to the communities that need it most. He also founded the Chicago Heart Institute, which was dedicated to the advanced treatments of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Katsnelson, M.D., completed a fellowship at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard School of Medicine, in Boston, MA. He was a faculty cardiac surgeon at the University of Chicago prior to starting his Cardiovascular and Thoracic private practice in Chicago Northwest suburbs. Dr. Yan Katsnelson was the first U.S. surgeon to perform the double valve replacement using Biocor™ tissue valve. His clinical areas of expertise included minimally invasive valve surgery, complex aortic operations, re-operative coronary and valve surgery, and beating-heart (off-pump) bypass surgery. He is published in various medical and scientific journals.
His vision of healthcare combines advanced medical and informational technology and creates a unique, data-driven approach that enables individualized treatment planning and achieves consistent outcomes. He developed a comprehensive healthcare management platform to optimize each patient’s experience before, during and after an appointment with streamlined scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, clinical decision-management support, and treatment process quality assurance.
Dr. Yan Katsnelson together with his wife also started the Fibroid Fighters Foundation to advance the cause of women’s health and the safe and effective minimally invasive treatment of uterine fibroids. He is member of the international Save a Child’s Heart that provides life-saving cardiac treatment to children from underdeveloped countries. Dr Katsnelson leads development of ECHO assisted technology that enables screening of thousands of children worldwide.
Other Organizations
Honors and Awards
Each March, physicians’ dedication and invaluable contributions are recognized on National Doctors’ Day. At USA Hemorrhoid Centers, we want to recognize our doctors every day for their expertise, compassion, and commitment to patient-centered care.
To understand what drives our physicians, our CEO and Founder, Yan Katsnelson, MD, recently shared the vision behind USA Clinics Group, a large network of outpatient clinics, which includes USA Hemorrhoid Centers. The philosophy shared by our team of specialists is simple: to improve lives by making effective treatments more accessible and convenient, allowing patients to return to their daily routines without painful symptoms.
Katsnelson described his time as a heart surgeon as a transformative experience. Restoring heart function was deeply rewarding, but he saw the potential for less invasive procedures to achieve similar, impactful results.
“That’s the magic of today’s medicine, minimally invasive treatments for very common conditions,” said Dr. Katsnelson. “Procedures with minimal to no risk and extraordinary outcomes.”
This commitment drives USA Hemorrhoid Centers to focus on providing nonsurgical hemorrhoid treatments for chronic symptoms that significantly impact patients’ daily lives.
Dr. Katsnelson’s transition from performing complex surgeries to pioneering a patient-first philosophy of care was driven by outcomes. He saw firsthand how advanced techniques could offer relief without hospitalization, long recovery times, or invasive procedures.
“Patients who had struggled with discomfort and embarrassment for years were suddenly able to find relief with a quick, outpatient procedure,” Dr. Katsnelson recalled. “Seeing how much their daily lives improved was incredibly motivating.”
Katsnelson believes medicine extends beyond treating individual patients, it’s about building a system rooted in consistency and compassion to ensure care is accessible and effective for all. This approach allows thousands of patients to receive treatment from highly skilled physicians without lengthy recovery times.
Ensuring consistent, high-quality patient care is at the heart of USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ mission. Dr. Katsnelson emphasized the importance of standardized protocols, rigorous training, and state-of-the-art management systems that integrate clinical best practices. This structured approach allows our specialists to provide accessible and advanced treatment in every community we serve.
Recognizing the impact of minimally invasive treatments offered, USA Clinics Group was launched to offer care for conditions including varicose and spider veins, knee arthritis, peripheral artery disease (PAD), enlarged prostates, hemorrhoids, uterine fibroids, and preventative CT scans.
A core principle at USA Hemorrhoid Centers is ensuring that patients, especially those in underserved communities, have access to the advanced care they need. Dr. Katsnelson and our team of specialists are passionate about eliminating barriers to treatment and providing solutions that allow individuals to live more comfortably.
“I became a doctor because I wanted to make a real difference in people’s lives. Seeing patients regain their comfort and confidence after struggling with a condition for years is incredibly fulfilling.” – Dr. Stephanie Spano
“Medicine has always been about more than just treatment for me—it’s about listening to patients, understanding their concerns, and helping them find solutions that improve their daily lives.” – Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser
“I was drawn to medicine because I wanted to provide effective care to those in need. Helping patients return to their routines without pain through minimally invasive treatments is what drives me every day.” – Dr. Sanjeev Saxena
Alexis B. – The staff at USA Hemorrhoid Centers was incredible. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and checked in often to make sure I was comfortable. I’m so glad I went through with the treatment and excited to see the improvements.
Abe K. – I’m really happy I chose USA Hemorrhoid Centers. The staff is friendly and professional, and the doctor made me feel completely at ease, taking the time to answer all my questions. The whole experience has been amazing—I couldn’t be happier.
Our values focus on “I CARE” which encompasses integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence. We care about every individual’s unique health condition and our treatment plans are tailored to each patient.
Hemorrhoids typically last from a few days to several weeks. However, some internal hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins located inside the rectum, won’t heal on their own. They require medical treatment to help the hemorrhoid tissue shrink, and they can become increasingly severe if left untreated.
These persistent hemorrhoids can cause painful symptoms, including anal itching, blood in the stool, and bowel discomfort. If they become prolapsed, meaning they fall outside of the anus, they can also be intensely painful. Ongoing hemorrhoid symptoms can impact the quality of your everyday life. Additionally, the longer you have internal hemorrhoids, the greater the risk of complications, so it’s important to know when to see a doctor because of hemorrhoids.
Knowing how to recognize symptoms for different types of hemorrhoids and what to expect in terms of duration can help you determine when to see a doctor.
Internal hemorrhoids usually sit inside the rectum and can vary in their duration. The duration depends on a few factors, such as whether the person experiences symptoms because internal hemorrhoids can be asymptomatic. When an internal hemorrhoid prolapses, patients may notice symptoms that can intensify, including anal itching, irritation, discomfort, and blood in the stool or on toilet paper. Other factors such as constipation, diarrhea, pregnancy, age, and weight can also impact the duration of the internal hemorrhoid. If the internal hemorrhoid doesn’t go away within a week or so, patients should consider getting medical treatment for their hemorrhoid.
If an internal hemorrhoid is large enough to cause symptoms, such as blood in the toilet bowl or on toilet paper after a bowel movement, anal itching, irritation, and discomfort, it may last several weeks or more. An internal hemorrhoid that prolapses or causes severe symptoms might persist until it’s treated.
External hemorrhoids, which are hard, tender lumps around the anus, can often last a few days; however, they may take longer to resolve. This depends on the size of the external hemorrhoid and other factors that may prolong its time frame, such as friction from wiping. Generally, over-the-counter medications and at-home treatments can help alleviate or reduce symptoms.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid can last for two to three weeks or longer. A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when an external or internal hemorrhoid fills with one or more blood clots. They can be very painful and swollen, impacting walking, sitting, or passing a stool.
Sometimes, the blood clots diminish in a couple of weeks, but the hemorrhoid doesn’t necessarily go away. If there’s too much pressure, a thrombosed hemorrhoid can rupture. A ruptured hemorrhoid can cause intense pain and bleeding. It can also increase your risk of infection, especially if the thrombosed hemorrhoid is external.
An internal hemorrhoid that doesn’t heal within a week or two should be seen by a specialist. But, what factors impact how quickly an internal hemorrhoid heals?
If your hemorrhoids aren’t healing or if symptoms persist, it may be time to consider a more advanced solution. USA Hemorrhoid Centers offers a modern treatment for internal hemorrhoids that has fewer risks and a shorter recovery than hemorrhoid surgery. Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a good option for most cases of internal hemorrhoids that don’t go away on their own.
Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a non-surgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids. It targets the blood flow causing the hemorrhoids, helping to reduce inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms, and has been proven to provide effective, long-term relief. HAE has a 97% clinical success rate.
The benefits of choosing HAE over traditional treatment surgical methods are that it doesn’t involve removing or cutting any tissue. The procedure isn’t painful, and there’s less risk of bleeding or an infection. HAE can be performed in an outpatient setting, and most people can return to their normal activity levels within a few days.
If you notice internal hemorrhoid symptoms for more than a week or two, or if the hemorrhoid prolapses and becomes painful, it’s important to see a hemorrhoid doctor. You should see a doctor if you notice signs of an infection, such as intense swelling or a fever.
You can try over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments, such as a cream or suppository, to relieve the swelling and inflammation. At-home care, such as soaking in a sitz bath (a shallow bath) and ice packs, can also bring relief. Additionally, avoiding prolonged sitting for long periods, adding fiber to the diet, drinking enough water, and exercising can support healing. If there is blood in the stool, anal itching, and other internal hemorrhoid symptoms persist after a week or two despite home care methods, schedule a consultation so you can get the treatment you need for lasting relief.
There is no set duration for how long hemorrhoids last. External hemorrhoids generally go away eventually without treatment, although they can last several weeks or longer. Internal hemorrhoids generally last longer than external hemorrhoids, but can cause chronic symptoms that may need medical treatment.
Yes, hemorrhoids can come back after treatment. Addressing risk factors for hemorrhoids, such as constipation, being sedentary, and eating a low-fiber diet, can help reduce the chances of hemorrhoids returning.
Hemorrhoids themselves aren’t dangerous. However, having hemorrhoids for long periods increases your risk for developing more severe symptoms or complications, such as an infection or severe pain and bleeding from a thrombosed hemorrhoid that ruptures.
Hemorrhoids, those uncomfortable and often embarrassing lumps around your anus, are a common concern for many. But what happens when symptoms overlap with something more serious, like colorectal cancer? March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to understand the differences and similarities between these two conditions. Some may attribute their symptoms to ‘just hemorrhoids’, potentially delaying a proper diagnosis until their symptoms become more severe.
With colorectal cancer affecting approximately one in 24 people and becoming increasingly prevalent in younger adults, it’s important to recognize the signs and when to seek medical advice.1
Hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus, are not a sign of colorectal cancer (also known as colon cancer). However, symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as rectal bleeding, can indicate cancer when paired with other symptoms. This is where confusion often arises, and why it’s important to stay vigilant about your colorectal health. If your symptoms are related to internal hemorrhoids, USA Hemorrhoid Centers can help.
Learn When to Seek Medical Attention for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are uncomfortable swollen veins around the anus, and it’s estimated that about one in 10 people experience them. Hemorrhoids can affect people of any age, but they are most common in people between the ages of 45 and 65.
Hemorrhoids come into two forms: internal and external. External hemorrhoids are located around the anus and are more noticeable. They also tend to be more painful than internal hemorrhoids because of their location, which has more nerve endings.
No matter whether they are internal or external, hemorrhoids can cause a range of painful symptoms including:
Hemorrhoid symptoms often improve within a few days to a week and are generally benign. It’s important to be aware, however, that internal hemorrhoids can take longer to heal and may get progressively worse. When internal hemorrhoids are left untreated, they can start to protrude out of the anus, a condition known as prolapse. Prolapsed hemorrhoids can cause significant pain and may need medical interventions to treat them, such as hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE).
Learn About the Benefits of HAE
Colorectal cancer is a polyp that forms inside the colon or rectum. Most polyps are benign but have the potential to turn into cancer. Out of the 150 thousand people diagnosed with colon cancer each year, a third of them will not survive.
Colorectal cancer mainly affects adults over the age of 50, but genetics can also play a role in cancer risk. Your risk can also increase if you:
Some of these risk factors, such as eating a low-fiber diet and having IBD, are also risk factors for hemorrhoids.
Early-stage colon cancer doesn’t usually present symptoms. However, some symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as rectal bleeding, can also overlap with hemorrhoid symptoms, including:
In this case, a gastroenterologist or oncologist may be the best option in finding care for colorectal cancer.
Hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer can share similar symptoms, but these symptoms can present differently. The table below illustrates the difference.
| Symptoms | Hemorrhoids | Colorectal Cancer |
|---|---|---|
| Rectal Bleeding | Bright red blood, often painless | Dark red blood mixed with stool, persistent bleeding |
| Bowel Habit Changes | Temporary changes, often linked to diet | Persistent changes with unexplained constipation or diarrhea |
| Pain and Discomfort | In prolapsed hemorrhoids, pain localizes in the anus, often while sitting down | Polyps can cause abdominal or back pain |
Even if you experience most of these symptoms, it’s important not to self-diagnose. Gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis can have similar symptoms.
A hemorrhoid specialist may be able to determine what’s causing your symptoms and recommend the best course of action. USA Hemorrhoid Centers can discuss non-surgical treatment options if your symptoms are synonymous with hemorrhoids.
Get an Expert Opinion By Scheduling Online
Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer significantly improve survival rates, with stage I at a 91 percent survival rate compared to only 15 percent for stage IV. It’s recommended to start colon cancer screenings after 45, and younger if you have a family history. Some diagnostic tests to identify hemorrhoids, such as colonoscopy, can be used to detect colorectal cancer.
Some hemorrhoids are not able to go away after a week despite using natural remedies. If you are experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms for more than a week, you may need medical treatment. Additionally, you should seek help from a hemorrhoid specialist if you have:
If a hemorrhoid is left intreated, you increase your risk of blood clots in the affected area, known as thrombosed hemorrhoids. You are also at an increased risk of developing anemia, anal fissures, or an infection. The earlier hemorrhoids are treated, the risk of complications decreases.
If your symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids, USA Hemorrhoid Centers specializes in treating hemorrhoids with hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE).
HAE is an innovative, minimally-invasive procedure that’s designed to reduce blood flow to the hemorrhoid and alleviate symptoms for lasting relief. No incisions are made, and the procedure doesn’t come with a week-long, residual pain like rubber band ligation does.
If your symptoms are more consistent with hemorrhoids, such as painless rectal bleeding, itching, or mucus discharge, contact us by calling or scheduling an appointment online.
Hemorrhoids do not cause cancer, but symptoms of colorectal cancer can sometimes overlap with hemorrhoids and can happen simultaneously.
Hemorrhoids do not increase colorectal cancer risk, but both conditions share similar risk factors such as diet, age, smoking status, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Colorectal cancer can be misdiagnosed as hemorrhoids, especially in younger people. This can lead to delayed treatment and increase mortality risk.
Major indicators of colorectal cancer include persistent diarrhea or constipation in addition to dark, red blood in the stool.
Hemorrhoids and piles are simply two names for the same condition: swollen veins in the anus and rectum. Many people use these words interchangeably, and perhaps with a touch of embarrassment assuming they’re two different ailments.
While the topic might be a little uncomfortable to discuss, it’s incredibly common. Millions of people experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Understanding hemorrhoids or piles and treatment options is the first step to finding relief and improving your quality of life.
USA Hemorrhoid Centers is an expert in non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment. If you are concerned about pain and discomfort that could be associated with hemorrhoids, consult a hemorrhoid specialist for an evaluation.
Schedule A Hemorrhoid Consultation
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. While these veins are a normal part of our anatomy, they become problematic when inflamed or enlarged. Think of them like varicose veins, but instead of in your legs, they’re in your lower digestive tract.
Hemorrhoids can be divided into two categories, internal and external, but in some cases, they can also develop together, known as mixed hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum, often causing painless bleeding, and are graded from 1-4 based on their location and severity. Internal prolapsed hemorrhoids, which can be felt and sometimes seen externally, appear as soft lumps of tissue protruding from the anus.
External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus, typically causing pain, itching, and swelling; a thrombosed external hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms within it.
Mixed hemorrhoids are both internal and external hemorrhoids occurring at the same time, producing a combination of symptoms.
“Piles” is just another term used for hemorrhoids in different parts of the world, like the United Kingdom and India, while in the United States, the word “hemorrhoids” is more prevalent.
The confusion arises because people often use “piles” or “hemorrhoids” to describe the symptoms of enlarged or problematic hemorrhoids rather than the anatomical structures themselves.
Several factors can contribute to the discomfort and inflammation of hemorrhoids (or piles).
Straining or putting pressure during bowel movements, usually a consequence of chronic constipation or diarrhea, exerts considerable force on the delicate veins lining the rectum and anus, resulting in swelling and pain.
Pregnant women are also prone to experiencing increased pressure in the rectal area, a result of hormonal fluctuations that slow digestion and the added weight of the developing uterus.
Excess weight, particularly from obesity, increases pressure on the rectal veins, exacerbating existing hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting also hinders proper blood circulation, potentially worsening pre-existing hemorrhoid issues. Additionally, aging weakens the supportive veins in the rectal area, making them more susceptible to swelling. Finally, a genetic predisposition can play a role, meaning some individuals inherit a higher risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Since hemorrhoids or piles are swollen veins near the rectum and anus, they can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. While some people are more likely to get them, many cases are linked to how you go about your everyday life. You can lower your risk by eating a good diet and having healthy bathroom habits, which helps keep blood flowing properly and reduces pressure.
To prevent hemorrhoids from developing or worsening, consider the following lifestyle suggestions:
While hemorrhoids can be a persistent problem, there are ways to manage the discomfort and improve your quality of life. Below are some everyday tips and techniques to deal with hemorrhoid pain, improve your well-being, and easily navigate daily routines.
While many hemorrhoid issues in the early stages may resolve on their own with home care, it’s important to see a hemorrhoid specialist if you experience severe symptoms such as significant rectal bleeding, particularly if it’s accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness.
Persistent pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments is another reason to consult a physician. Changes in your bowel habits, such as alterations in stool consistency or an increase in the frequency of bowel movements, should also be evaluated. Finally, the presence of blood in your stool, even if it seems minimal, requires prompt medical attention as it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
If any of the above symptoms are something you can relate to and are causing discomfort, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists at USA Hemorrhoid Centers to check for hemorrhoids.
Connect With Our Hemorrhoids Specialists
Treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the grade level of hemorrhoids, location, size, and severity of the symptoms. The following methods can be tried to alleviate painful symptoms and become pain-free:
Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive approach to treating hemorrhoids by reducing their blood supply. This reduction in blood flow causes the hemorrhoids to shrink, providing significant relief from symptoms like pain and bleeding.
With its multiple benefits, hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) offers a compelling alternative to traditional hemorrhoid treatments. Being minimally invasive, HAE requires no large incisions, resulting in less scarring and a quicker recovery.
The procedure is typically performed at an outpatient clinic, allowing most patients to return home the same day. Compared to more invasive methods like surgery or banding, HAE is less painful. Recovery is also swift, with many individuals able to resume their normal routines within just a few days.
HAE proves particularly effective for complex cases, offering a viable solution for those experiencing persistent bleeding or dealing with large hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to other treatment options.
For patients seeking a less invasive way to deal with persistent internal hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) offers a promising alternative. Interventional radiologists at USA Hemorrhoid Centers use this leading-edge technique to provide significant pain relief, particularly to those suffering from chronic or severe hemorrhoid symptoms who want to avoid surgery. If other treatments have been ineffective, consulting with an interventional radiologist about HAE might be the first step to long-term comfort and a better quality of life.
Interested in learning more about HAE or scheduling a consultation? Contact USA Hemorrhoid Centers at 855-805-4247 or visit www.usahemorrhoidcenters.com to explore your options and find a location near you.
Hemorrhoids are a common occurrence in adults—almost half of them experience hemorrhoids at least once in their lifetime. Hemorrhoids are a group of veins, muscles, and connective tissues near the anus that become inflamed and swollen. They can form either around the anus (external) or inside the rectum (internal).
Patients with hemorrhoids may experience symptoms such as itching, bleeding, and pain or discomfort near the anus. Many over-the-counter medications can ease symptoms, and these symptoms may resolve on their own. However, some symptoms may persist, indicating a more serious issue that needs medical attention.
This blog explains hemorrhoids and when to seek medical attention. For minimally invasive, long-lasting relief, consider USA Hemorrhoid Centers. We offer minimally invasive treatment that can provide long-lasting relief.
Hemorrhoids can cause various symptoms that can impact a person’s well-being. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:
Some hemorrhoids can secrete mucus when they are inflamed. In severe cases, a small amount of stool may leak out if the hemorrhoids prevent the anus from fully closing. Depending on how big the hemorrhoid is, you may also feel fullness even after a bowel movement.
Learn About Internal vs External Hemorrhoids
Some patients may only have mild symptoms of hemorrhoids that resolve on their own within a week. Hemorrhoids like these are usually no cause for concern and can be treated with the following at-home remedies:
If natural remedies don’t work, it may be time to schedule a consultation.
You may need help from a medical professional if you are experiencing signs of severe hemorrhoids. These signs include:
In these cases, you may benefit from seeing a hemorrhoid specialist. USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ interventional radiologists are experienced in treating hemorrhoids and can help you find relief that hasn’t been achieved by at-home treatments.
Find a Hemorrhoid Specialist Near You
When hemorrhoids are left untreated, they can lead to the following complications:
A prolapsed hemorrhoid happens when an internal hemorrhoid starts bulging out of the anus. They can feel like soft lumps of tissue, but they can be painful. If prolapsed hemorrhoids aren’t treated, they can become permanent and cause further discomfort.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot forms in the hemorrhoid, causing severe pain and swelling. This works similarly to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Unlike DVT, a thrombosed hemorrhoid can eventually burst, leading to intense bleeding, nausea, dizziness, and abdominal pain.
The longer hemorrhoids bleed, the higher your chance is of developing anemia. Anemia is when you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen from the heart to the rest of your body. This can lead to feelings of weakness and fatigue.
Hemorrhoids don’t directly cause anal fissures, but the irritation from friction can eventually lead to tears inside the linings of the anus.
Hemorrhoids increase a person’s risk of infection due to bleeding.
Early detection and treatment of hemorrhoids that don’t resolve on their own can reduce your risk of complications.
Hemorrhoid symptoms may overlap with other health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer. You should consider seeing a doctor if you also experience:
Additionally, if you are experiencing symptoms of an infection such as nausea, chills, fever, or an increased heart rate, you should head to an urgent care for proper treatment.
External hemorrhoids are typically easy to diagnose and treat on your own. However, internal hemorrhoids that don’t resolve on their own may need a diagnosis and treatment from a hemorrhoid specialist, such as a colorectal surgeon, gastroenterologist, or interventional radiologist. Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed using the following methods:
USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ team of interventional radiologists offer a minimally invasive treatment known as hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE). Rather than removing hemorrhoids through surgery, staples, or rubber bands, HAE involves tiny particles through a catheter that block blood flow to the hemorrhoid.
HAE can be beneficial to patients in a few ways. It’s less painful than other procedures for hemorrhoids such as rubber band ligation, stapled hemorrhoidopexy (using staples to cut off blood flow), or hemorrhoidectomy (surgically removing hemorrhoids). Additionally, HAE can treat higher grade hemorrhoids than other procedures such as infrared coagulation, which involves infrared light to break down hemorrhoidal tissues.
HAE also comes with fewer risks than other procedures. The Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology published a study in 2023 evaluating the safety of HAE. The study concluded HAE has a success rate of 93 percent, without adverse side effects. Patients who chose rubber band ligation as a treatment experienced significant pain one week after treatment. Hemorrhoidectomy comes with a higher risk of infection, bleeding, and longer recovery times.
A benefit of HAE treatment is that patients go home shortly after the procedure and quickly resume most activities. There is significant symptom improvement within a week, and the risk of further hemorrhoid complications is greatly decreased.
Don’t let hemorrhoids make bathroom breaks miserable. The experts at USA Hemorrhoid Centers, a national network of AAAHC-accredited radiologists can help you find lasting relief from internal hemorrhoid pain. Call 855.805.4247 or schedule an appointment online. Our Care Team will verify your insurance coverage.
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