# Hemorrhoids --- **Hemorrhoids** are dilated portions of veins in the [[large intestine|anal canal]]. They're actually pretty common in the US. They can be internal and stay in the anal canal or external and come out side of the body. ## Risk Factors - childbirth - opioid induced constipation (OIC) - excessive sitting - truck drivers are at a high risk ## Signs & Symptoms The signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids include: - itching - pain - bright red rectal bleeding with deification ## Treatment - symptom management - warm compresses - sitz bath - OTC hemorrhoid ointment/suppository - witch hazel - lifestyle modifications - high residue diet, like with fruit and bran - next try psyllium - non-surgical - infrared photocoagulation laser therapy - causes scar tissue to form - sclerotherapy - whatever that is - surgical - hemorrhoidectomy ___