No one really wants to talk about hemorrhoids. However, three out of four adults will experience this condition in their lifetime.
Pain, itching, irritation, and bleeding may all be signs of hemorrhoids and the embarrassment of talking to anyone about this can be overwhelming. Because of the personal nature of hemorrhoids, the doctors at Hunterdon Gastroenterology want you to feel comfortable getting treatment. You’ll find your HGA physician compassionate, sensitive and easy to talk to without embarrassment.
What exactly are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids (HEM-uh-roids), also called piles, are swollen veins in your anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. Hemorrhoids have a number of causes, although often the cause is unknown. They may result from straining during bowel movements or from the increased pressure on these veins during pregnancy. Hemorrhoids may be located inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids), or they may develop under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). Internal hemorrhoids are far enough inside the rectum that you can’t usually see or feel them. They don’t generally hurt because you have few pain-sensing nerves there. Bleeding may be the only sign of them. External hemorrhoids are under the skin around the anus, where there are many more pain-sensing nerves, so they tend to hurt as well as bleed.
Treatment
If your hemorrhoids produce only mild discomfort, your doctor may suggest over-the-counter creams, ointments, suppositories or pads. These products contain ingredients, such as witch hazel, or hydrocortisone and lidocaine that can relieve pain and itching, at least temporarily.
External hemorrhoid thrombectomy – If a painful blood clot (thrombosis) has formed within an external hemorrhoid, your doctor can remove the clot with a simple incision and drainage, which may provide prompt relief. This procedure is most effective if done within 72 hours of developing a clot.
The CRH O’Regan System – Fast, Non-Surgical, Virtually Painless Procedure Removes Hemorrhoids in About Three Minutes. It doesn’t require fasting or sedation or post procedure care and is virtually pain-free. At Hunterdon Gastroenterology Associates, hemorrhoid treatment is as easy. It’s the most comfortable and effective hemorrhoid removal option available. And it takes under 60 seconds!
Coagulation (infrared, laser or bipolar) – Coagulation techniques use laser or infrared light or heat. They cause small, bleeding, internal hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel. While coagulation has few side effects and may cause little immediate discomfort, it’s associated with a higher rate of hemorrhoids coming back (recurrence) than is the rubber band treatment.
Hemorrhoid removal
In this procedure, called hemorrhoidectomy, your surgeon removes excessive tissue that causes bleeding. Various techniques may be used. The surgery may be done with a local anesthetic combined with sedation, a spinal anesthetic or a general anesthetic. Most people experience some pain after the procedure. Medications can relieve your pain. Soaking in a warm bath also may help.
No need to suffer in silence or feel embarrassment! The doctors at HGA are ready to help you with the relief from hemorrhoids today. Give us a call to discuss which option would be right for you.
