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Hemorrhoids
Do You Suffer From Any Of The Following Symptoms?If so, you may have hemorrhoids. Let us help you find relief. Some symptoms attributed to hemorrhoids are actually caused by other diseases and delay in treatment can be dangerous. It is important to see a board certified colorectal surgeon to evaluate, diagnose and discuss treatment options. Speak up, and let a TCRS specialist suggest a treatment plan that will have you feeling comfortable again. Get Hemorrhoid Relief That Works Hemorrhoids commonly affects millions of Americans every day. The hemorrhoid experts at TCRS find that many mild cases are relieved by changes in diet or simple in-office procedures, and only a small number of patients with hemorrhoids actually require surgery. Many people feel uncomfortable discussing the topic of hemorrhoids with their physician because the condition is often considered embarrassing. Therefore, hemorrhoid sufferers are often slow to seek treatment. Without proper diagnosis, you may suffer much longer than necessary. Hemorrhoid Treatment Options - We Have Them AllAt TCRS, varieties of therapies are available to treat hemorrhoids. Through thorough diagnosis and discussions with you, we determine the most effective hemorrhoid relief plan for your individual condition. The most appropriate and effective therapy for you will depend on several factors, including the severity of the hemorrhoids, and whether the hemorrhoids are external, internal or both. Relief for mild hemorrhoid symptoms include: Diet and Lifestyle Changes. Relief for mild symptoms of hemorrhoids frequently includes increased amounts of fiber (e.g., fruits, vegetables, breads and cereals, and fiber supplements) and fluids in the diet. Eliminating excessive straining reduces the pressure on hemorrhoids and helps prevent them from protruding. Sitting in a warm tub of water can also provide some relief. Severe hemorrhoids may require special treatment, some of which may be performed in the physician’s office or on an outpatient basis: Rubber Band Ligation. This in-office procedure, works effectively on internal hemorrhoids that protrude with bowel movements or bleed. The procedure involves placing a small rubber band over the hemorrhoid, which cuts off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid and the band fall off in a few days and the wound usually heals in a week or two. Some patients experience mild discomfort and bleeding. Sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is used for smaller internal hemorrhoids, usually those that bleed but do not protrude. Injecting a solution around the blood vessels cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. Infrared Coagulation. Frequently referred to as “laser”, this procedure is performed with a special device using infrared light to treat internal hemorrhoid tissue. Multiple treatments are typically required, and long-term results are not as successful as rubber band ligation. Hemorrhoidectomy. This procedure, typically performed on an outpatient basis, is the best method for the complete removal of external hemorrhoids. It is necessary when (1) clots repeatedly form in external hemorrhoids; (2) ligation fails to treat internal hemorrhoids; (3) the protruding hemorrhoid cannot be reduced; or (4) there is persistent bleeding. Performed under anesthesia, a hemorrhoidectomy removes the excessive tissue that causes the bleeding and protrusion. Laser hemorrhoidectomies do not offer any advantage over traditional surgical hemorroidectomies. Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy, also known as PPH (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids), is particularly useful for patients with large prolapsing internal hemorrhoids and minimal external hemorrhoids. This minimally invasive surgical approach uses a special device to internally staple and excise internal hemorrhoidal tissue. The stapling method may cause hemorrhoid shrinkage, but does not remove external hemorrhoids. What Are Hemorrhoids?Hemorrhoids are enlarged, bulging blood vessels in and about the anus. There are two basic types of hemorrhoids: external and internal. External (outside) hemorrhoids develop near the anus and very sensitive skin covers them. If a blood clot develops in one of them, a painful swelling may occur. Referred to as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, it feels like a hard, tender marble. It bleeds only if it ruptures. Internal (inside) hemorrhoids develop within the anus. Painless bleeding and protrusion during bowel movements are the most common symptoms. However, an internal hemorrhoid can cause severe pain if it is completely “prolapsed”, or protruding from the anal opening where it cannot be pushed back inside. What Causes Hemorrhoids?The exact cause of hemorrhoids is unknown, but several factors can contribute to their development: - Aging
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Pregnancy
- Straining during bowel movements
- Overuse of laxatives or enemas
- Spending long periods of time (e.g., reading) on the toilet
Women often suffer from hemorrhoids during pregnancy due to the extra weight they are carrying. Being overweight also creates a similar issue in men and women. Good preventative methods you can practice daily to avoid many colon and rectal issues include: limiting prolonged sitting on the toilet and straining during bowel movements, keeping a healthy lifestyle and diet and avoiding the overuse of laxatives and enemas. Aging is a factor in hemorrhoids that you may not be able to control but, with the help of your colorectal specialist, you can control and treat the hemorrhoids when they do occur. Do Hemorrhoids Cause Cancer?There is no relationship between hemorrhoids and cancer. However, the symptoms of hemorrhoids, particularly bleeding, unusual itching, pain or sensitive lumps around the anal area, are similar to those of colorectal cancer and other diseases of the digestive system. That is why it is important that a physician specially trained in treating diseases of the colon and rectum investigates any symptoms. Don’t rely on over-the-counter medications or other self-treatments. Make an appointment with the Texas Colon & Rectal Specialists physician most convenient to you so your symptoms are properly evaluated and effective treatment is prescribed. Let us help you find relief; if you are experiencing anal bleeding, pain or itching, call 1-877-ASK-TCRS or contact the TCRS location nearest you.
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