Don’t Sit On Chronic Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are one of the most prevalent digestive conditions impacting American adults today. Statistics show that half of adults over 50 suffer from hemorrhoids, with many going undiagnosed. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. These swollen veins can happen inside the rectum but, in many cases, occur under the skin next to the anus. The result is often a painful bulge or a cluster of small, pea-sized lumps around the anus. Hemorrhoids are painful, especially during bowel movements. Severe cases can benefit from minimally invasive treatment to prevent further complications and long-term digestive troubles.
Why you shouldn’t ignore your hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids impact individuals differently, and the symptoms vary in intensity. Common symptoms include rectal bleeding, itching, swelling, chronic constipation, and discomfort when sitting. Leakage of feces, painful bowel movements, and a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation are other common signs. Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable topic to discuss, and those with this condition suffer in silence. However, if left untreated, chronic bleeding, pain, and discomfort can impact work, relationships, and daily activities. Some can also lead to infections and long-term issues like anal fissures, fistulas, and anemia. Blood clots and strangulation of blood supply to the hemorrhoid are also severe complications. Consistent treatment or a more direct approach with minimally invasive treatment are the best strategies.
When is minimally invasive treatment the solution?
Hemorrhoids have several risk factors, including constipation, diarrhea, diabetes, pregnancy, and obesity. Other risk factors include poor dietary choices, advanced age, heavy lifting, and straining during bowel movements. Many try to address hemorrhoids with over-the-counter topical solutions and pain medications. These solutions can provide temporary relief but, in some cases, may not be enough to address long-term complications. Minimally invasive treatments can address the growths formed over time. Furthermore, these options can provide lasting relief with minimal downtime and discomfort.
What are my options?
Doctors will suggest hemorrhoidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove severe hemorrhoids. This traditional surgery involves cutting away the hemorrhoids and sealing the blood vessels. The wounds can also be left open or closed, which can lead to prolonged recovery times. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, there are now multiple options available. Rubber band ligation, for instance, is a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) that uses small rubber bands around the hemorrhoids to cut off the blood supply. Over a few days, the hemorrhoids shrink and eventually fall off. Infrared coagulation uses a special device to apply heat to the hemorrhoid. The growths shrink, scar, and eventually fall off.
