What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They are one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding, affecting approximately 50% of adults over age 50. While often a source of embarrassment, hemorrhoids are a very common and treatable condition.
Hemorrhoids are classified as internal (inside the rectum, usually painless but can bleed) or external (under the skin around the anus, can be painful and itchy). Internal hemorrhoids are graded from I to IV based on severity, with Grade I being the mildest and Grade IV involving permanent prolapse. Understanding the type and grade guides treatment selection.
At Dr. Jing Tong Gastroenterology in Flushing, NY, we provide comprehensive hemorrhoid evaluation and treatment ranging from conservative lifestyle modifications to in-office procedures. Dr. Tong's Johns Hopkins training ensures you receive the most appropriate, evidence-based treatment for your specific condition.
Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Bright Red Bleeding
Itching & Irritation
Pain & Discomfort
Swelling Around Anus
Prolapse (Tissue Protrusion)
Mucous Discharge
Treatment Options
Conservative Management
First-line treatment includes increasing dietary fiber (25-35g daily), staying well-hydrated, avoiding straining, sitz baths (warm water soaks for 10-15 minutes), and over-the-counter treatments such as topical creams, witch hazel pads, and stool softeners. These measures effectively relieve symptoms for most Grade I and early Grade II hemorrhoids.
Rubber Band Ligation
The most common office-based procedure for Grade II-III internal hemorrhoids. Small rubber bands are placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off within 1-2 weeks. This effective, minimally invasive procedure is performed without anesthesia in the office.
Sclerotherapy & Infrared Coagulation
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a chemical solution into hemorrhoid tissue to shrink it. Infrared coagulation uses heat to coagulate the blood supply. Both are office-based options for smaller internal hemorrhoids that don't respond to conservative measures.
Surgical Referral
For severe Grade III-IV hemorrhoids or those not responding to office procedures, Dr. Tong coordinates surgical referral for hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy. He provides thorough pre-operative evaluation and post-operative follow-up care.
Why Choose Dr. Jing Tong?
Johns Hopkins Trained
Expert evaluation to distinguish hemorrhoids from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Therapeutic Endoscopy
Colonoscopy to rule out other causes of bleeding and provide comprehensive evaluation.
Multilingual Care
Discuss this sensitive condition comfortably in Mandarin, Shanghainese, or English.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids develop from increased pressure in the rectal veins. Common causes include straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, prolonged sitting on the toilet, pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting, low-fiber diet, and aging (weakening of supportive tissue).
Can hemorrhoids go away on their own?
Mild hemorrhoids (Grade I) often improve with dietary changes and lifestyle modifications within a few weeks. However, more advanced hemorrhoids typically require medical treatment. Recurrence is common without addressing underlying causes like low fiber intake and straining.
Is rubber band ligation painful?
Rubber band ligation for internal hemorrhoids typically causes only mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure, as internal hemorrhoids are above the nerve-rich area. Some patients experience a dull ache for 1-2 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and sitz baths help with any discomfort.
How can I prevent hemorrhoids from recurring?
Prevention strategies include eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet, not straining during bowel movements, and going to the bathroom when you feel the urge rather than delaying.
How do I know if my bleeding is from hemorrhoids or something more serious?
While hemorrhoids are the most common cause of bright red rectal bleeding, other conditions including polyps, fissures, IBD, and cancer can cause similar symptoms. A proper evaluation by Dr. Tong, potentially including colonoscopy, is important to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, especially if you are over 45.
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