Hemorrhoids may not be the most discussed topic, but with up to 75% of people experiencing them at some point, it’s an issue that deserves attention. Whether you’re unfamiliar with the condition or dealing with its challenges firsthand, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from diagnosis to the latest advancements in treatment. Discover how a new, innovative procedure transforms care and offers hope for lasting relief.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Imagine the veins around your anus and lower rectum as tiny, inflatable cushions. They help you maintain continence and ease your bowel movements when all is well. Hemorrhoids occur when these veins become swollen or inflamed.
There are two main types:
Internal hemorrhoids: These troublemakers form inside the rectum. You can’t see them, but they can make their presence known through bleeding.
External hemorrhoids: These form under the skin around your anus. They’re responsible for most of the discomfort and dreaded itching sensation.
Why Do Hemorrhoids Happen?
Several factors can increase pressure on the veins in your rectal area, leading to hemorrhoids:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Low-fiber diet
- Lifting heavy weights
- Genetics
- Aging
When to Suspect Hemorrhoids
How do you know if you’re dealing with hemorrhoids? Look out for these signs:
- Bright red blood on your toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
- Itching or irritation around your anus
- Pain or discomfort, especially during bowel movements
- Swelling around your anus
- A lump near your anus, which may be sensitive or painful
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, especially if there’s bleeding involved, it’s time to chat with your doctor. While hemorrhoids are usually harmless, it’s important to rule out more serious conditions.
Diagnosing Hemorrhoids
Your doctor has seen it all before, so there’s no need to be embarrassed. The diagnosis process usually involves:
- A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history
- A physical exam, which may include a digital rectal examination
- For internal hemorrhoids, your doctor might perform an anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to get a better look
In some cases, especially if there’s bleeding, your doctor might recommend additional tests to rule out other conditions like colorectal cancer.
Conservative Care
For many people, hemorrhoids can be managed effectively without invasive procedures. Here are some effective methods:
- Fiber is your friend: Aim for 25-30 grams daily. This helps create softer, bulkier stools that are easier to pass.
- Stay hydrated: Water helps keep things moving smoothly.
- Don’t strain: Avoid spending too long on the toilet or straining during bowel movements.
- Sitz baths: Soaking in warm water for 10-15 minutes can provide relief.
- Over-the-counter treatments: Creams, ointments, and suppositories can help relieve symptoms.
- Cold compresses: These can help reduce swelling and provide comfort.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can help prevent hemorrhoids.
When Conservative Care Isn’t Enough
If conservative treatments aren’t providing relief, there are other options:
- Rubber band ligation: To cut off the blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid, a tiny rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid.
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
- Infrared coagulation: This technique uses infrared light to create scar tissue, cutting off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid.
- Surgical options: For severe cases, procedures like hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy might be recommended.
Treating Hemorrhoids With Hemorrhoid Embolization
At VIE, we’re excited to offer a cutting-edge treatment for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid embolization (HAE). This minimally invasive procedure offers several advantages:
- Outpatient procedure with quick recovery
- Reduces blood flow to hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink
- Provides effective relief from symptoms
- Lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery
HAE represents a revolutionary approach to treating hemorrhoids. It addresses the root cause: excessive blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue.
How Does It Work?
- Precision Targeting: An interventional radiologist uses advanced imaging techniques to guide a thin catheter through your blood vessels to reach the arteries feeding the hemorrhoids.
- Blocking Blood Flow: Once in position, tiny particles are injected through the catheter to block these arteries.
- Shrinking Hemorrhoids: As the blood supply is reduced, the hemorrhoids gradually shrink, alleviating symptoms like pain, bleeding, and itching.
The Benefits of Choosing HAE
Hemorrhoid artery embolization offers several advantages over traditional surgical approaches:
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions or tissue removal means less pain and faster recovery.
- Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can go home the same day.
- Quick Recovery: Many individuals return to normal activities within days.
- Reduced Risk: Lower chance of complications compared to traditional surgery.
- Effective Relief: High success rates in reducing or eliminating hemorrhoid symptoms.
Is HAE Right for You?
You might be a good candidate for hemorrhoid artery embolization if:
- You have persistent, symptomatic internal hemorrhoids
- Conservative treatments haven’t provided adequate relief
- You’re looking for an alternative to traditional surgery
- You have other health conditions that make surgery risky
However, as with any medical procedure, it’s essential to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your situation.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Preparation: You’ll receive local anesthesia and possibly mild sedation to ensure your comfort.
- The Procedure: The interventional radiologist will use real-time imaging to guide the catheter to the target arteries and perform the embolization.
- Recovery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can go home the same day.
- Follow-up: Your doctor will schedule check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure optimal.
As research continues and more patients benefit from this innovative approach, hemorrhoid artery embolization is poised to become a standard option for treating hemorrhoids. Its minimally invasive nature and promising results make it an exciting development in interventional radiology.
Taking the Next Step
Living with hemorrhoids doesn’t have to be your reality. Effective solutions are available for dealing with mild discomfort or more severe symptoms. From lifestyle changes to innovative procedures like hemorrhoid embolization, we’re here to help you find the relief you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced interventional radiologists can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss your health needs and treatment options.
