Hemorrhoids are a common disease that many people experience at some point in their lives. In fact, this condition affects one in every twenty U.S. citizens. That’s approximately 10 million people in the United States alone.
These swollen veins in the rectal and anal areas are often manageable with home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, or lifestyle changes. But there are instances where surgery might become the best or only option to find relief.
Your body sends clear signals when hemorrhoids progress beyond simple home treatment. Watch for these red flags:
Persistent Pain That Doesn’t Improve
Pain from hemorrhoids is usually manageable with home remedies, like sitz baths, creams, and dietary changes. But if the pain sticks around no matter what you try, it might be a sign of something more serious. For example, thrombosed external hemorrhoids can cause intense, unrelenting pain that doesn’t go away on its own.
So, what’s the reason behind that? A thrombosed hemorrhoid happens when blood gets trapped in the swollen vein, leading to severe inflammation and pressure. This can irritate nearby nerves, making the pain much worse. If the clot doesn’t dissolve naturally, the discomfort can last for weeks and even lead to complications like infections.
When that happens, it’s probably time to call in piles specialist Singapore services or your local area. They can evaluate what’s going on and might suggest medical procedures like rubber band ligation, injections to shrink the hemorrhoids, or, in more serious cases, surgical removal. It’s typically a quick procedure to drain the clot, and it can bring almost instant relief.
Chronic Bleeding
Occasional bleeding during bowel movements isn’t uncommon with hemorrhoids. However, if you notice frequent or heavy bleeding, that’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
Persistent bleeding can indicate that hemorrhoids are worsening or suggest a more serious problem, such as anemia. This condition occurs when your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently, leaving you tired and weak.
If this is your case, a surgical procedure may be the most effective treatment.
A Noticeable Bulge
Another symptom that can indicate the need for surgical intervention is the presence of a noticeable bulge near the anal area. This bulge is often associated with prolapsed hemorrhoids, a condition where internal hemorrhoids extend out of the rectum, sometimes to the point of being visible or palpable.
In the early stages, a prolapsed hemorrhoid may only appear temporarily, typically during bowel movements, and retract back inside on its own. However, as the condition progresses, the hemorrhoid may remain outside the anus, causing persistent discomfort and requiring manual effort to push it back in. In some cases, the hemorrhoid may become permanently prolapsed, resisting attempts to reposition it.
In such a situation, a doctor might recommend an operation. These interventions address the immediate issue and help prevent further complications.
Now that we’ve covered the key symptoms to keep an eye on, let’s talk about the different surgical options available for treating hemorrhoids.
Common Surgical Options for Hemorrhoid Treatment
“You need surgery.” This phrase might initially sound scary. Well, don’t be. Modern surgical treatments for hemorrhoids are generally safe, effective, and aimed at providing long-term relief. Here’s a friendly overview of the common options:
Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation offers a straightforward solution for minor internal hemorrhoids. Picture a tiny rubber band being placed around the hemorrhoid’s base. Over about a week, the hemorrhoid simply shrinks and falls off. It’s quick enough to be done during a regular office visit, and patients typically return to their normal activities relatively soon.
Hemorrhoidectomy
For a more invasive option, a hemorrhoidectomy might be the best path forward. While it’s more invasive since it involves surgically removing the hemorrhoids, it does provide a permanent solution. Recovery takes a few weeks, and yes, there will be some discomfort, but many patients find the long-term relief worth it.
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (PPH)
This procedure repositions prolapsed hemorrhoids and reduces blood flow to the affected tissue, allowing it to shrink. It’s less painful than a hemorrhoidectomy and has a quicker recovery time, making it a popular choice for internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed.
Sclerotherapy and Coagulation Therapy
Those dealing with smaller, bleeding internal hemorrhoids might benefit from sclerotherapy or coagulation therapy. These minimally invasive treatments work either through an injection (sclerotherapy) or heat/light (coagulation) to shrink the hemorrhoids. While gentle and effective for minor cases, these methods might not suffice for larger hemorrhoids.
Thrombectomy
If a thrombosed external hemorrhoid is causing intense pain, a quick procedure to remove the blood clot can bring immediate relief. This is often done in an outpatient setting with minimal downtime.
Surgical options, while more invasive than home remedies, are highly effective for providing long-term relief from hemorrhoids. Your doctor will help you weigh the risks and benefits of each procedure to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaway
No one ever wanted to deal with the discomfort and frustration that hemorrhoids bring, yet for many, they’re an unavoidable reality. If you’ve been struggling with symptoms that don’t improve despite your best efforts, it might be time to consider medical intervention. A visit to your doctor can provide clarity of your condition and the best course of action.
Just a note: surgery isn’t something to be feared or avoided. Modern surgical techniques are designed to minimize discomfort and promote faster recovery, allowing patients to regain their quality of life.
