Hemorrhoids are masses of tissue within the anal canal that contain blood vessels and supporting tissue.
Though found in every person, for some these hemorrhoidal cushions enlarge and can cause problems.
When this enlarged hemorrhoids cushion begins at the top of the anal canal it is referred to as an internal hemorrhoid.
Though some people can experience internal hemorrhoids with no symptoms, the most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood.
Internal hemorrhoids are most often diagnosed by a physician.
Proper diagnosis is important any time bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool occurs.
If you are suffering from internal hemorrhoids you may be wondering what treatment options you have.
Due to the fact that hemorrhoids can be caused by strain many doctors suggest increasing your fiber intake and your water intake as part of a treatment for internal hemorrhoids.
This can help to soften stool and reduce the strain needed.
It is often suggested not to use laxatives or to use them sparingly.
Loose stools can also irritate the delicate hemorrhoidal tissues and cause more problems rather than treating the internal hemorrhoids.
Your doctor may also suggest using a topical ointment containing hydrocortisone.
This will help relieve the itch of internal hemorrhoids while providing treatment for your internal hemorrhoids as well.
Ointments containing calamine and zinc oxide are also typically suggested for use.
Whether you apply these ointments internally or externally, you can use them six times during any given twenty-four hour period.
It is important to note that no ingredients have been given the FDA's seal of approval for internal use to ease some of the more common symptoms of hemorrhoids.
If you are experiencing any of those symptoms discuss what internal hemorrhoids treatment options you might have.
You may also want to combine your internal hemorrhoid treatment with a protecting ointment.
This will help to ease the swelling and prevent water loss by creating a protective coating over the skin.
Protecting agents such as lanolin, aluminum hydroxide gel, and mineral oil have also been suggested for internal treatment.
If your symptoms persist for seven days or worsen you may need to contact your physician.
There are several office procedures that can be used for internal hemorrhoid treatment.
Depending on the severity of your internal hemorrhoids the treatment options may include rubber band ligation, laser coagulation, or cryotherapy.
Occasionally, an internal hemorrhoid will become prolapsed and need special treatment.
A prolapsed hemorrhoid is an internal one that protrudes out the anus.
A prolapsed internal hemorrhoid is usually painless.
They will often spontaneously retract back and require no treatment.
If you have a prolapsed hemorrhoids that does not retract or becomes painful you should contact your physician for specific prolapsed internal hemorrhoid treatment.
A prolapsed hemorrhoids that does not spontaneously retract back may need to be manually re-inserted.
If you are suffering from an hemorrhoids and need treatment discuss the options available with your physician.
There are many options available for a safe and gentle internal hemorrhoid treatment.
It is important that if you suspect an internal hemorrhoid to still seek medical attention for blood in the stools or found on the toilet tissue as this may be a sign of another medical condition.