Internal vs. External Hemorrhoids
Contrary to popular belief, hemorrhoids themselves are not a problem, until they become symptomatic. A hemorrhoid, or anal cushion, is a natural and helpful part of the anatomy of the rectum that consists of a group of veins lining the walls of anorectal canal. There are three groups of hemorrhoids in the rectum: the right inferior, right anterior, and left lateral groups. Hemorrhoids in their normal physiological state help maintain bowel continence and protect the rectal wall during the passage of stool.
However, with increased pressure in the veins, the hemorrhoidal tissue will become engorged. This increased pressure in the veins weakens the connective tissue in the hemorrhoids, which causes them to distend. This distention is what is referred to as hemorrhoid disease or HD.
There are two distinct types of hemorrhoids, internal and external. Each of these bring with them different symptoms and issues. If you have been suffering from hemorrhoids, it is important that you understand what this disease entails, while also reaching out to a qualified hemorrhoid doctor.
Having a strong grasp of what type of affliction you may be suffering from, while also figuring out the best course of action for your particular situation, will allow you to effectively rid yourself of hemorrhoid issues.
Internal Hemorrhoids
In the case of internal hemorrhoids, the primary thing to look for is the amount of distention in the hemorrhoid. This will determine how much it protrudes from its position in the anorectal canal. When there is slight or minor distention, the hemorrhoid will remain primarily inside the rectum above the dentate line. The lining above this level do not contain pain fibers, so the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids will usually consist of painless bleeding during bowel movements. They may als prolapsed or protrude and they are graded by the amount of protrusion. Protruding internal hemorrhoids can hurt.
External Hemorrhoids
On the other hand, and external hemorrhoid will involve distention that is below the dentate line, where the pain fibers are present. Due to this, external hemorrhoids tend to be painful, itchy and generally a significant annoyance to the person dealing with them.They cause difficulty cleaning after a movement. This type also has the potential to be filled with clotted blood called a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which will be extremely painful and will most likely require urgent treatment.
Tampa Internal and External Hemorrhoid Treatment | Hemorrhoid Treatment Center of Florida
If you are suffering from the uncomfortable and inconvenient affliction of internal or external hemorrhoids, it is important to understand your options by working with a doctor who specializes in this area.
David H. Shapiro, M.D. has over 40 years of experience in the treatment of hemorrhoids and has proven, through his many career achievements, to be one of the foremost experts on the subject. This includes being a primary contributor to the development of the Ultroid® treatment.
To speak with Dr. Shapiro and the friendly staff at the Hemorrhoid Treatment Center of Florida, call (727) 724-4279 or send an online message to schedule a free consultation today. HTCF proudly treats individuals in and around Pinellas County and Hillsborough County. This includes, but is not limited to, the cities of Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Lutz and Dade City.