Hemorrhoids – Diagnosis and treatment at Clinic near home

What Are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?

1. Bright red bleeding during or after a bowel movement.
2. A lump protruding from the anus while straining during a bowel movement.
3. Itching or irritation around the anal area.
4. A lump that can be felt around the anus, often accompanied by pain.

When Should You See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids?

1. Frequent bleeding from the anus.
2. Severe pain or swelling.
3. A lump around the anus that does not go away.
4. Chronic constipation or symptoms that do not improve with self-care.
5. Symptoms that affect daily life.

“Most patients come in with chronic constipation, bleeding during bowel movements, or a lump that appears when straining. If they see a doctor early, the symptoms can usually be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

However, there are also cases where patients wait too long before seeking treatment. In some situations, the lump remains outside and cannot be pushed back in. In these cases, the patient may need to be referred for surgery.”

Non-Surgical Treatment

This approach is used for early-stage hemorrhoids (Stage 1–2) and in some cases of Stage 3.

Lifestyle Changes

• Eat high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Drink enough water (8–10 glasses per day).
• Avoid straining and holding bowel movements for long periods.
• Exercise regularly to stimulate bowel function.

Medications

• Topical creams and suppositories to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
• Pain relievers such as paracetamol if there is pain.
• Venotonic medications to help reduce inflammation and swelling of the veins.

Local Treatments

• Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoidal veins to cause them to shrink.
• Rubber Band Ligation: A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to stop blood flow, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink.

Surgical Treatment

This method is suitable for severe hemorrhoids, such as Stage 3–4, or when non-surgical treatments are not effective.

1. Hemorrhoidectomy
   A standard surgical procedure used to remove hemorrhoids completely. It is suitable for large hemorrhoids or those that protrude outside the anus.
2. Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy
   This procedure uses a special stapling device to lift and reduce swollen veins. It is commonly used for internal hemorrhoids.
3. Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty
   Laser energy is used to reduce the size of the hemorrhoidal blood vessels. This method usually causes less pain and allows faster recovery.
4. Infrared Coagulation
   Infrared heat is used to treat the hemorrhoidal blood vessels, causing them to shrink.

Does a Hemorrhoid Examination Hurt? How Does the Doctor Examine It?

In general, the examination is not painful, but you may feel slightly uncomfortable or unfamiliar with the procedure. The doctor will use a finger to check the area and may use a small instrument to look inside the anal canal to examine any abnormalities.