A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein or group of veins near the rectum that can often be successfully treated at home using over-the-counter creams, fiber supplements, stool softeners or prescription medications. If dietary changes and other home remedies are unsuccessful, your primary care doctor may refer you to a gastroenterologist for additional treatment options.

In the Sutter Health network, we offer a variety of treatments for hemorrhoids. Chronic internal and external hemorrhoids can be treated with a hemorrhoidectomy, in which the hemorrhoids are surgically removed using a knife or scalpel. Another option is placing small rubber bands around small or medium-sized hemorrhoids to block blood flow, causing them to shrink and fall off.

Sutter hospitals throughout Northern California have been ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as some of the highest performing in the nation for gastroenterology services. Across our network, gastroenterology services and surgeries have earned five-star ratings from Healthgrades.