When it comes to hemorrhoids treatment, there are a number of options that are available. Usually, the type of treatment that a hemorrhoid requires depends on the symptoms, as well as the type of hemorrhoid it is. Below are some common methods for the treatment of hemorrhoids.
Prolapsed, Internal, and External Hemorrhoids: What You Need to Know
Hemorrhoids treatment methods
It’s normal for people to have hemorrhoids and not notice them at all. In fact, not all hemorrhoids can cause pain or discomfort; sometimes the only symptom a person experiences is bleeding when they pass stool.
Hemorrhoids can also sometimes go away on their own, without needing any treatment plan.
However, there are situations where hemorrhoids can get worse, particularly in people who suffer from chronic constipation. If left untreated, these types of hemorrhoids can cause severe pain and discomfort in patients.
Here are some forms of hemorrhoids treatment that a person can undergo:
Change in diet
The most straightforward hemorrhoids treatment is a change in your diet. One reason why some people have hemorrhoids is because they strain too hard whenever they pass stool.
This usually happens in people who have chronic constipation. And the best way to prevent constipation would be to have a change in your diet.
It is recommended for people who are constipated to eat foods that are rich in fiber. Fiber is important in regulating our bowel movements, so eating more fiber can help prevent constipation and make passing stool easier.
Foods that are rich in fiber include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. It would also be best to avoid eating too much meat since it is high in fat and low in fiber. Drinking a lot of water would also help soften stool and lower the chances that a person would be constipated.
Using creams or suppositories
If a change in diet is not enough to deal with hemorrhoids, there are over-the-counter creams available. These creams are designed to reduce pain, swelling, and itchiness in persons who have hemorrhoids. However, one limitation to these creams is that they’re useful for external hemorrhoids only.
For internal hemorrhoids, suppositories can help with relieving some of the symptoms. A suppository is a type of medication, usually in a round or bullet shape, that is inserted into the anus. Suppositories can help with relieving swelling, pain, and discomfort in people with internal hemorrhoids.
However, over-the-counter medication is usually ideal for mild symptoms. For people with severe hemorrhoid pain, other forms of treatment might be required.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a process wherein a drug is injected directly into the hemorrhoid. This helps shrink the blood vessels so that it no longer causes pain and discomfort. The injections are given over the course of a few weeks. Sclerotherapy is mainly used for smaller hemorrhoids.
Despite it being effective, there is a chance that the hemorrhoids might come back after two to three years.
Rubber band ligation
Rubber band ligation is a form of treatment wherein very small rubber bands are used to tie off the hemorrhoids. This is usually done on smaller external hemorrhoids.
The rubber bands used essentially cut off blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and fall off within a few days. The band and the hemorrhoid are usually passed along with your stool.
For larger hemorrhoids, the procedure might need to be repeated, to make sure that all of the hemorrhoids are dealt with. One advantage of this method over surgery is that patients recover from it quicker and also experience less pain.
Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure wherein the hemorrhoid is removed using a laser, scalpel, or scissors. After the surgery, patients usually feel pain in their anus.
It’s possible for sitting and passing stool to also be painful. This is why painkillers are usually prescribed after undergoing this surgery.
Key Takeaways
Whichever form of treatment you choose, the important thing would be to ask for your doctor’s advice. They can best provide you with the information you need and guide you to which form of treatment would be most effective.
Learn more about Digestive Health here.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
