Hemorrhoids

Alternative names:

lump in the rectum; piles; rectal lump

Treatment:

Mild cases are controlled by drinking fluids, high-fiber diet, and regular toilet habits. Corticosteroid creams (see corticosteroids - topical) help reduce pain and swelling. Procedural treatments consist of rubber band ligation, cryosurgery, or hemorrhoidectomy.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most treatments are effective, but recurrences can happen if measures are not taken to adopt a high-fiber diet with adequate fluids.

Complications:

Iron deficiency anemia can result from prolonged loss of blood.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve with home treatment.