What are Hemorrhoids?
| Each Year in the United States, millions of people consult a physician with symptoms of hemorrhoids. |
While many people have mild hemorrhoid symptoms that are brief and transitory, many others put up with daily pain, discomfort and bleeding that do not respond to topical ointments or suppositories. Patients with more severe or bothersome symptoms often fear that their only recovery is surgery. However, only a small percentage of people with persistent hemorrhoid problems actually require surgery. Most can be helped with Infrared Coagulation (IRC), a simple, gentle office procedure that is quick, painless and results in no work loss.
| Over 100,000 Americans will undergo surgery each year for hemorrhoid disease. |
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins within the anal canal. When these veins become swollen they may cause symptoms such as itching, irritation, and bleeding. If there is enough swelling, the hemorrhoid will start to protrude out from the anal opening with bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are covered with a mucus membrane. When the hemorrhoid protrudes, it can produce a mucus discharge which is irritating to the skin around the anus. Many times, however, hemorrhoids simply cause painless bleeding on a daily basis.
| Millions of over-the-counter hemorrhoid preparations are sold annually. |
There are two different types of hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids
develop inside the anal canal. These frequently cause bleeding and can protrude to the outside with
bowel movements or straining. 
Internal hemorrhoids are graded into four categories depending upon
how much protrusion is present. External hemorrhoids can be felt as lumps around the anal
opening but usually do not cause symptoms. However, most patients with external hemorrhoids also
have internal hemorrhoids.
