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Hemorrhoids Specialist

Park Gastroenterology Valli P. Kodali, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF Our Services Hemorrhoids

Park Gastroenterology

Valli P. Kodali, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF

Gastroenterologist located in Cary, NC

About three out of four adults get hemorrhoids at some point during their lives, which can cause anal itching, swelling, bleeding, and discomfort. At Park Gastroenterology in Cary, North Carolina, board-certified gastroenterologist Valli Kodali, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF, and his exceptional team diagnose and treat hemorrhoids to ease pain and reduce the risk of complications. Call the office today to schedule an appointment or book one online.

Hemorrhoids Q & A

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen anal and lower rectal veins similar to varicose veins. They can develop under the skin near your anus or inside the rectum. Fortunately, Park Gastroenterology offers effective hemorrhoid treatments to relieve unpleasant symptoms.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Common symptoms associated with hemorrhoids include:

  • A hard lump near your anus
  • Anal pain
  • Anal tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Itching
  • Bleeding with bowel movements
  • Irritation
  • Inflammation


Complications linked to untreated hemorrhoids include iron-deficiency anemia, painful hemorrhoid strangulation, and blood clots.

What are the risk factors for hemorrhoids?

While hemorrhoids can happen to anyone, some things boost your risk of developing them. Examples include:

  • Straining with bowel movements
  • Ongoing diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Sitting for long periods
  • Pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • Anal intercourse
  • Heavy lifting
  • Low-fiber diets
  • Older age


Ways you can reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids include:

  • Eating high-fiber foods or taking fiber supplements
  • Drinking a lot of fluids
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Not straining during bowel movements


Also, avoid sitting down for long periods.

How does my doctor diagnose hemorrhoids?

Dr. Kodali checks your vital signs, reviews your symptoms, and discusses your medical history. He completes a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam and visual inspection. Dr. Kodali often uses a scope to get an in-depth view of the affected area.

How are hemorrhoids treated?

Common hemorrhoid treatments include:

Home remedies

Sometimes hemorrhoid pain goes away with home remedies. Examples include eating more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. You might soak in a warm bath or try over-the-counter topical treatments or oral pain relievers.

Medications

Using creams, ointments, pads, or suppositories can reduce the pain and swelling caused by hemorrhoids.

Rubber band ligation

During rubber band ligation, Dr. Kodali places tiny rubber bands around the base of hemorrhoids to cut off the circulation and cause them to fall off.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy injections use a chemical solution to shrink hemorrhoids with little or no pain.

Coagulation

Laser or infrared light causes hemorrhoids to harden, shrivel up, and disappear.

Surgery

Surgery is a last resort if other hemorrhoid treatments haven’t worked. Dr. Kodali can numb the treatment area and surgically remove the hemorrhoids.

Don’t live with hemorrhoid discomfort when simple pain-relieving treatments are within reach at Park Gastroenterology. Call the office today to book an appointment or schedule one online.