Hemorrhoid Treatment in Glendale & Los Angeles
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum, usually painless but can bleed) or external (under the skin around the anus, which can become painful if a clot forms). They’re extremely common and often related to straining, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or chronic constipation.
Common Symptoms
- Painless bright red bleeding with bowel movements (common with internal hemorrhoids)
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- A painful lump near the anus (can indicate a thrombosed external hemorrhoid)
- A feeling of a bulge or incomplete emptying
Treatment Approach
- Fiber, hydration, and avoiding straining resolve many mild cases
- Office-based procedures such as rubber band ligation for internal hemorrhoids that don’t respond to conservative care
- Surgical hemorrhoidectomy for large, prolapsing, or severe hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to less invasive treatment
A Note Worth Reading
Rectal bleeding is also a symptom of more serious conditions, including colorectal cancer. It’s reasonable to assume bleeding is "just hemorrhoids," but new or persistent bleeding should still be evaluated rather than self-diagnosed, especially for anyone due for colorectal cancer screening.
Related Questions
When should I see a colorectal surgeon instead of my primary care doctor?
Your primary care doctor is a good first stop for most symptoms and can refer you if needed. It’s reasonable to seek a colorectal surgeon directly for persistent anorectal symptoms (bleeding, pain, a lump, or drainage that doesn’t resolve), a colonoscopy finding that needs follow-up, a family history that puts you in a higher-risk screening category, or a known condition like inflammatory bowel disease that may eventually need surgical input. When in doubt, a referral from your primary care doctor or gastroenterologist is a reasonable way to confirm whether a surgical consult makes sense.
View this answer on its own page →At what age should I start colon cancer screening?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions, your doctor may recommend starting earlier and screening more frequently. If you’re not sure which category you fall into, that’s worth a direct conversation rather than guessing.
View this answer on its own page →See more on our main site, or request an appointment to discuss this with Dr. Gregorian directly. lacolorectaldoctor.com →
This page is general health information, not medical advice, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. It is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
Discuss Hemorrhoids With Dr. Gregorian
Call the office or send a message to request an appointment with Dr. Armen Gregorian, MD, FACS, FASCRS.