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Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the anus or lower rectum that often go unnoticed until bleeding or discomfort arises. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers comprehensive care with advanced, minimally invasive treatments to relieve symptoms prevent recurrences.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea
  • Pregnancy (increased pelvic vein pressure)
  • Aging (weakened supportive tissues)
  • Sitting for long periods, especially on hard surfaces
  • Obesity (greater venous pressure)
  • Low-fiber diet and dehydration (common in Houston's humid climate)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet
  • Painless lump that bulges with straining
  • Feeling of fullness after bowel movements
  • Itching or discomfort around the anus
  • Mucus discharge

Expert Treatment for Internal Hemorrhoids by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He'll discuss the onset, location, intensity and triggers of your pain, your diet, medication use (NSAIDs, aspirin), alcohol intake and any -red-flag- symptoms like weight loss or vomiting.

Laboratory Tests

Routine blood work checks for anemia, liver and pancreatic enzyme levels, and screens for H. pylori infection.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, liver and pancreas for stones or inflammation.
  • CT scan of the abdomen if complications or alternative diagnoses (e.g., pancreatitis) are suspected.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

An endoscope is used to inspect the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, erosions or gastritis and to obtain biopsies if needed.

Specialized Functional Tests

  • pH monitoring or impedance testing to assess for gastroesophageal reflux.
  • Gastric emptying study if gastroparesis is suspected.

Advanced Diagnostics (if needed)

Rarely, we may perform motility studies or obtain additional biopsies to rule out celiac disease, eosinophilic gastritis or other rare conditions.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for internal hemorrhoids.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

  • Eat more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily
  • Don't rush or strain when using the bathroom
  • Get 30 minutes of exercise most days

2. Medications

  • Over-the-counter creams or suppositories
  • Stool softeners to prevent straining
  • Prescription options for more severe cases

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Rubber band ligation - cuts off blood flow to shrink hemorrhoids
  • Infrared coagulation - uses heat to reduce swelling
  • Sclerotherapy - a special injection shrinks the vein
  • Doppler-guided artery ligation - targets the blood supply for lasting results
24K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 24K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of internal hemorrhoids?

Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet, a painless bulge during straining, a feeling of fullness after bowel movements, itching around the anus, or mucus discharge.

How are internal hemorrhoids different from external hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids lie above the dentate line inside the rectum and usually don't hurt. External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and can be tender or painful.

Can internal hemorrhoids be treated without surgery?

Yes. Dr. Pothuri offers non-surgical options like rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, sclerotherapy, dietary changes, topical treatments, and stool softeners.

When should I see a doctor?

Schedule an evaluation if you notice rectal bleeding, severe pain, or if symptoms persist beyond two weeks of home care.

Are hemorrhoid treatments covered by insurance?

Most plans cover both diagnosis and treatment. Our team will verify your benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before you proceed.

Will hemorrhoids come back after treatment?

Recurrence is possible, but adopting a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and following follow-up care can greatly reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

Do I need to prepare for in-office procedures?

Some procedures require a light bowel prep or enema. We'll provide clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure you're fully prepared.

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