Many people suffer in silence that have hemorrhoids because they are too embarrassed to see a  doctor. Social taboos are associated with this part of our body and we are conditioned to keep any problems with bathroom habits to ourselves. The fear of being ridiculed for having hemorrhoids is enough to keep this condition in our own personal closet forever.  Yet, if you suspect that you have hemorrhoids, you do need to get a diagnosis from your doctor. Remember that doctors are not there to embarrass you, and they routinely perform these examinations all the time.  There are many other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, such as rectal cancer or anal fissures.  Your life is too valuable to gamble with, so always go to your doctor to make sure what you are dealing with is a hemorrhoid. It is one thing to be embarrassed, and quite another thing to have a different disease which could be life-threatening.

Even though you may feel uneasy, seeing a doctor is the right choice!

The doctor will be able to visually identify prolapsed and external hemorrhoids, and then, will examine the interior of the rectum. If you have  internal hemorrhoids they usually can be felt by a digital rectal exam. With this exam, the doctor will insert a gloved lubricated finger into the rectum where they can feel any abnormalities. If the doctor needs to examine the inside of  the rectum visually, they will use an anoscope. An anoscope is a hollow lighted tube useful for viewing internal hemorrhoids.

To rule out any other causes of gastro-intestinal bleeding, the doctor may have you return for a more complete examine of the rectum and colon. A sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy are diagnostic procedures that involve the use of lighted, flexible tubes inserted through the rectum. These two exams would not be done on your first visit, unless you have gone through the pre-op care required beforehand. Your digestive system would need to be cleansed of all fecal matter for these exams. A sigmoidoscopy can exam half the colon for abnormalities, and it is usually done in the doctor’s office.  In contrast, a colonoscopy exams the whole length of the colon, and is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical setting.

written by Joy Seeman

© Hemorrhoid Information Center 2009 / H.I.C. Digestive Health

Hemorrhoidolysis is a non-invasive procedure in which the hemorrhoid is shrunk using an electrical current that is manually applied to the actual site of inflammation, using a tool that is known as an electrode, or small probe.  The electrode transmits a low-grade electrical current onto the hemorrhoid itself, which in turn causes a chemical reaction in the tissue.  It is believed that the tissue at the inflamed site that undergoes this chemical reaction causes hemorrhoidal tissue to shrink, eventually alleviating both the hemorrhoids and its symptoms.  The procedure is also called Galvanic Electrotherapy, or the Ultroid method.

Hemorrhoidolysis is a relatively new modality of treatment for hemorrhoids that is most successful for resolving internal hemorrhoids.  Typically the procedure is painless and can be preformed without anesthesia in a very short period of time within a doctor’s office.  Since complications are virtually non-existent (there are rarely reported side effects such as bleeding or swelling), Hemorrhoidolysis is frequently performed on an outpatient basis, with the individual usually being be able to return to work or home the same day.

Hemorrhoidolysis is most commonly employed for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids.  The theory upon which electrotherapy is based has a long history of successful use by sports doctors and physical therapists for treating soft-tissue conditions such as muscle spasms or atrophy.  Typically the doctor is able to manually treat one hemorrhoid at a time, over what averages out to be three to four visits.  Because the procedure is non-invasive and produces so few complications, it is particularly popular amongst patients who wish to avoid the possible side-effects and recovery time associated with other remedies such as Rubber Band Ligation.  It should be noted that long-term resolution of one’s hemorrhoids and its symptoms also depends upon certain lifestyle changes that demand alterations to diet, exercise, and bowel habits.  Given the procedure’s rate of success treating milder cases of internal hemorrhoids, doctors and patients will likely continue turning to Hemorrhoidolysis.

David Gilbert received his BA from U.C.L.A. He is currently doing graduate work in psychology at California Graduate Institute, in Los Angeles, CA. Throughout his career in the mental health field he has worked clinically with several populations, and also contributed to academic works whose topics address both health and mental health issues.

© Hemorrhoid Information Center

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy is a relatively new procedure designed to treat what are known as third and fourth degree hemorrhoids, which is a more severe hemorrhoidal scenario than a case of first or second degree external hemorrhoids, or internal hemorrhoids.  Prolapsed Hemorrhoids, for which the Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy is designed, refers specifically to variety of hemorrhoid in which hemorrhoidal tissue extends beyond the mouth of the anus.  Typically, the Prolapsed Hemorrhoid presents as a mass of red tissue that is usually accompanied by a mucosal layer that will be apparent after bowel movements either in the stool, or as a residue left on toilet paper.  In some cases, the mucosal substance will leak and soil undergarments, which is also a means of detecting the presence of this particular variety of hemorrhoid. Stapled Hemorrhoidectomies, unlike the traditional Hemorrhoidectomy, which involves completely excising the inflamed tissue, necessitate removing only a portion of the protruding, or prolapsed tissue, using a tool referred to as a Circular Anal Dilator.  The Circular Anal Dilator separates the extended tissue for removal, while making it possible for the remaining tissue to be secured with staples and set back into its initial position.  The objective of the Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy is to starve the hemorrhoid by reducing to the inflamed region the hemorrhoid’s necessary supply of blood.  Stapled Hemorrhoidectomies were introduced by an Italian physician named Dr. Antonio Longo, around 1993. Originally touted as a more efficient and favorable course of action over traditional surgery, it promised fewer complications, and a shorter and less painful recovery period.  Also known as a Procedure for Prolapsed Hemorrhoids, or PPH, this particular treatment has been reported to produce significantly fewer post-operative impediments than the more invasive and traditional Hemorrhoidectomy.

Circular Anal Dilator

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy enjoys a high success rate for resolving both the hemorrhoidal condition itself, and also attending hemorrhoid symptoms such as bleeding, because its overall treatment objective is to effectively eliminate blood-flow to the infected region. Stapled hemorrhoidectomies are typically used in severe third or fourth degree cases, although on occasion the procedure will be performed on milder cases that have not responded to other modalities of treatment.  Because of the high success rate associated with the procedure, it is a favored option amongst surgeons and patients wishing to adopt an alternative to conventional surgery.  It is not uncommon for patients to be treated with PPH on a same day basis, and they can usually return to daily activities within a few days.  The procedure itself is a relatively short operation, requiring only minimal anesthesia.  In some cases it has been reported that post-operative complications can include what is called fecal urgency, or a severe and persistent need to defecate, in addition to prolonged and severe pain. Because of these factors and risks, as with all surgical procedures and treatment options, one should first consult with their physician to ensure they choose the best possible option that best suits their needs and their circumstances.  In this way, an informed decision can be made as to whether or not the correct course of action is to undergo the Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy.

written by, David Gilbert

[i] Racalbuto, A. et al., Hemorrhoidal stapled prolapsectomy vs. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy: a long-term randomized trial. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

[ii] Cited Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stapled_hemorrhoidectomy

[iii] Cited Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stapled_hemorrhoidectomy

[iv] Science Daily, (Oct. 22, 2006)

[v] Racalbuto, A. et al., Hemorrhoidal stapled prolapsectomy vs. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy: a long-term randomized trial. International Journal of Colorectal Disease.

[vi] Cited Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stapled_hemorrhoidectomy

[vii] Ganio, E., Altomare, D.F., Gabrielli F., et al. Prospective randomized multicentre trial comparing stapled with open hemorrhoidectomy. British Journal of Surgery, 2001; 88: 669-674

[viii] 5. Cheetham MJ, et al. Persistent pain and faecal urgency after stapled hemorrhoidectomy. Lancet, August 26, 2000;356:730-3.

Infrared Coagulation is a non-surgical procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. Infrared Coagulation is known as a fixative treatment, and is similar to other fixative treatments such as Rubber Band Ligation and Sclerotherapy, in that its objective is it reduce hemorrhoidal symptoms by eliminating hemorrhoids through obstruction of blood-flow to the infected region. Individuals can suffer from a variety of hemorrhoids, each case presenting its own symptoms and necessitating different courses of treatment. It is necessary to educate yourself and consult with your physician to decide on the proper intervention that will address your specific needs. This article will provide for you basic information specifically about Infrared Coagulation.

Infrared Coagulation is one of the most commonly prescribed procedures used to treat certain smaller, internal hemorrhoids. Like its sister fixative procedures, Infrared Coagulation is non-surgical and can be performed on a same-day basis in a doctor’s office. Because the side-effects, risks, and recovery time are so reduced, and because it boasts such a high success rate, it is favored amongst both doctors and patients.

Infrared Coagulation consists of inserting a small instrument into the anus that acts as a probe. Upon contact with the hemorrhoid, the probe emits a burst of infrared light directly onto the infected tissue for approximately 1 to 1.5 seconds. Exposing the hemorrhoid to the infrared light causes the hemorrhoidal vein to coagulate, or scar, which reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoid, eventually causing it shrivel, harden, and fall off. The scarring also acts as a prophylactic between the hemorrhoid and the anus and protects against further re-inflammation.

Infrared Coagulation does not cause discomfort, and unlike other fixative treatments such as Rubber Band Ligation or Sclerotherapy, does not typically require the use of anesthetics. Frequently, what the patient does experience during Infrared Coagulation is a momentary sensation of heat, which though frequently uncomfortable is rarely reported to actually be painful. The recovery time is relatively short, and typically patients can return to their regular activities the same day. As with most procedures performed to the rectal area, activities that require heavy lifting or straining should be avoided. Typically the procedure must be repeated approximately every 12 to 14 days, and only one hemorrhoid at a time may be treated per session.

Infrared Coagulation has an excellent success rate for small to medium internal hemorrhoids, and it is reported that with proper changes to diet, exercise, and bowel habits, symptoms do not return. It is not uncommon to experience slight bleeding from the anus for about 7 to 10 days, after which time the hemorrhoid falls off. Patients are often advised to use mild or over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol to reduce discomfort; consult with your physician before using NSAID’s (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or aspirin prior to, or just after, undergoing Infrared Coagulation, because of the risk of excessive bleeding clotting that can arise as a secondary complication, depending on your personal medical history. It is also common for doctors to prescribe stool softeners after Infrared Coagulation, to assist with easier bowel movement and thus ensure straining does not occur.

Infrared Coagulation’s success depends on both your doctor’s knowledge and skill, in addition to the necessary changes to your lifestyle that you are willing to make. Although Infrared Coagulation can be costly, it less costly than surgical procedures and less costly still than the certain consequences you will experience letting your hemorrhoidal condition go untreated. Whatever course of action you decide upon be sure to properly arm yourself with all of the information at your disposal, to ensure the correct intervention for yourself is in fact Infrared Coagulation.

written by David Gilbert

© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center

]]> http://www.hemorrhoidinformationcenter.com/infrared-coagulation-hemorrhoid-treatment/feed/ 4 http://www.hemorrhoidinformationcenter.com/hemorrhoid-surgery-less-invasive-procedures/ http://www.hemorrhoidinformationcenter.com/hemorrhoid-surgery-less-invasive-procedures/#comments Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:00:54 +0000 Joy Seeman http://www.hemorrhoidinformationcenter.com/?p=729

Many medical techniques have been developed in recent years to alleviate the pain and suffering of patients with hemorrhoids. These methods are a vast improvement over the traditional hemorrhoidectomy surgery which required hospitalization and a lengthy recuperation period. Although the success rate is not as high with these treatments, they have many advantages over invasive surgeries. They are less expensive and have a quick recovery period for the patient. They can be done in the doctor’s office or on an outpatient basis; often patients can return to work the next day. Results of the minimally invasive procedures have been excellent for some patients to unsuccessful in others. Usually, only patients with severe hemorrhoids which have not responded to any other treatments submit to these procedures.

There are three main minimally invasive procedures performed:

· Coagulation is a technique where lasers or infrared lights are used on the hemorrhoid. The method causes the internal hemorrhoid to harden and dry-up. It has few side effects, but the hemorrhoids often return.

· Rubber band ligation has a better success rate than coagulation. In this method, the doctor ties off the hemorrhoid at the base with one or two rubber bands. Without a blood supply, the hemorrhoid falls off in a few days. The patient may experience discomfort and bleeding after the procedure, but complications are rare.

· Sclerotherapy is a hemorrhoid treatment where a chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid causing it to shrink. It is a painless technique, although it seems to be less successful than rubber band ligation and is usually only used on smaller hemorrhoids.

If your hemorrhoids have progressed to the point where they have curtailed your lifestyle, these are good options to consider. Consult your doctor is see if you are a candidate for these procedures. You may want to research doctors who specialize in these treatments since they would have the experience and expertise to give you the best care.

written by Joy Seeman

©2009 H.I.C. Digestive Health

Hemorrhoid surgery is only performed for hemorrhoids that are classified as either third or fourth stage. The third stage is where the hemorrhoids protrude (prolapsed hemorrhoids) through the anus and must be manually reinserted back into the rectum. In the fourth stage, the hemorrhoids cannot even be pushed back inside, and they contain rectal tissue which is strangulated or thrombosed (containing blood clots).

Having hemorrhoids is an embarrassing problem that most people keep to themselves for fear of ridicule. Often that leads the hemorrhoid sufferer to ignore their affliction and wait way too long before seeking medical intervention. If caught early enough, hemorrhoids can usually be cleared up in a few weeks with simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. But at some point, hemorrhoid sufferers need to consider hemorrhoid surgery if other methods have failed. Try to get your hemorrhoids diagnosed by a doctor as soon as possible.

The two types of invasive hemorrhoid surgeries.

The Hemorrhoidectomy removes the hemorrhoid completely under anesthesia, and the recuperation period can be several weeks and quite painful. This type of hemorrhoid surgery is only recommended in the severest of cases. Inability to void urine and a high infection rate can be complications from this surgery. Some studies have shown a link between this hemorrhoid surgery and a lack of bladder control later in life.

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy or PPH surgery was developed in 1990’s as a less drastic procedure with a quicker recovery period. During the procedure, the anal canal tissue is repositioned with a circular stapler device, so that blood flow is reduced to the area, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink in four to six weeks. Usually the surgery lasts from 15-30 minutes and the patient can be back to work in a few days. Complications can be rare, but they include damage to the sphincter muscle, pelvic infection, or persistent pain. Another rare complication is rectal prolapse, where the rectum protrudes from the anus. Also, there is a chance that the hemorrhoids may return, and the procedure will need to be repeated.

Hemorrhoid Surgery is usually a last resort for people  because of the expense and recuperation period involved. Your doctor is the best judge of what stage your hemorrhoids are in, and what hemorrhoid surgery options are available for you. You may want to investigate the less invasive hemorrhoid procedures that can be done in your doctor’s office too. But you are the one who will need to make the final decision for yourself, so try to be as knowledgeable as you can be about the differences in available hemorrhoid surgery options. You also can find many more articles on hemorrhoid surgery by using the H.I.C. search engine.

Written by Joy Seeman

© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center