What exactly are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are the network of veins around the anus area. These veins are covered by very delicate, sensitive tissue. The condition known as hemorrhoids occurs when the piles are irritated, swollen or inflamed. This is usually caused by straining or pressure.

The two types of hemorrhoids are internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids bleed, protrude and cause pressure, but rarely cause pain. External hemorrhoids tend to cause burning, itching and/or pain.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

There are several symptoms that usually indicate some type of hemorrhoid condition. These include blood in the stool, in the toilet, or on bath tissue after using the bathroom, or a vague pain in the anus after defecating. Also, itching, burning or pain in the region may indicate a case of hemorrhoids.

What causes hemorrhoids?

A number of factors can lead to varying forms of hemorrhoids. These include:

• Constant sitting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Obesity
• Childbirth
• Heavy lifting
• Severe coughing
• Straining with bowel movements
• Heredity

Basically, any increase in the pressure in the veins around the anus can lead to hemorrhoids.

Personalized, patient-driven care is a Colon & Rectal Surgical (CRS) hallmark. Our treatment plans for managing hemorrhoids include minimally invasive, virtually painless non-surgical procedures such as Infrared Coagulation (IRC), as well as technologically advanced surgical intervention when needed. Therapies include, but are not limited to:

• Rubber Band Ligation
• Infrared Coagulation
• Injection Sclerotherapy
• Hemorrhoidectomy
• PPH (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids)
• Harmonic Scalpel Hemorrhoidectomy

CRS's program for the treatment of hemorrhoids means that each patient's condition is treated individually so that an optimal outcome is assured. Patients often experience immediate relief from the discomfort and itching of hemorrhoids, and our office-based procedures ensure that every patient is treated in a comfortable, private setting.

Accurate diagnosis is essential. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of a more serious condition, and only a thorough examination by one of our Board-Certified physicians can determine the cause.

When it comes to your colorectal health and well-being, you deserve to have the CRS team behind you.

Diagnosis

Many ailments can cause discomfort and bleeding from the anus, therefore a thorough exam should be performed by a doctor. A doctor will observe the area using one or more medical devices. These can include an anoscope, proctoscope, and/or performing a sigmoidoscopy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for most cases of hemorrhoids is very good. Most cases are eliminated within one to two weeks. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids. A change in diet and lifestyle will also often lead to a reduction in hemorrhoid symptoms.

The following are brief descriptions of treatments for mild to moderate and severe hemorrhoid conditions.

Mild to Moderate

For mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids, a number of different treatments are available. It is important to visit your doctor to determine which treatment will be most effective in remedying your condition. Most mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids will get better without surgery.

Baths: Believe it or not, taking a warm bath for 10-15 minutes, several times a day may help reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Topical Lotions: Many hemorrhoidal preparations are now available over-the-counter. Many include pain-relieving ingredients such as lidocaine or hydrocortisone.

Herbal Tablets and Creams: Relative newcomers to hemorrhoids relief are herbal pills and creams. The ingredients in many of these products are said to reduce and/or eliminate hemorrhoids and their symptoms.

Suppositories: Used for internal swelling and discomfort.

Severe

Severe cases of hemorrhoids will require a doctor visit at which time one of the following procedures may be prescribed:

Rubber Band Ligation: A doctor-administered procedure in which a small rubber band is slipped around the base of a hemorrhoid causing it to lose blood flow, wither and fall off.

Infrared Coagulation: A procedure in which hemorrhoids are burned through the use of electricity, laser or infrared light.

Injection Sclerotherapy: A procedure in which a chemical agent is injected into a hemorrhoid. The chemical causes a local reaction within the hemorrhoid that causes it to shrink.

Hemorrhoidectomy: This is a surgical removal of the offending hemorrhoid(s). Hemorrhoidectomies have been proven effective but can produce short-term discomfort and potential scarring.

PPH (Procedure for Prolapsing Hemorrhoids): A procedure in which a physician uses a staple device to raise the hemorrhoid and reposition the anal canal tissue. As a result, blood flow is reduced and the hemorrhoid typically shrinks within four to six weeks. Usually there is less discomfort than may result from a hemorrhoidectomy.

Harmonic Scalpel Hemorrhoidectomy:
This is a surgical removal of hemorrhoids utilizing minimally traumatic cutting technology resulting in reduced post-operative pain and faster recovery.

Talk to a CRS physician about your condition and the best possible treatment procedures for you.