A hemorrhoid is the swelling and inflammation of veins around the anus or lower rectum. They may occur both internally and externally. Some causes of hemorrhoids include chronic constipation, pregnancy, aging, diarrhea and anal intercourse. Most hemorrhoids will heal spontaneously within a few days. In some cases, they may persist and worsen. There are some treatment methods for hemorrhoids that you should be aware of.
Dietary Modification and Medication
Modifying your diet may help alleviate hemorrhoids and prevent new ones from occurring. Increasing the amount of fiber, fruits, vegetables and water in your diet will help reduce the straining during a bowel movement that occurs with constipation. Some physicians may recommend that you take a daily over-the-counter stool softener to help prevent constipation. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), the application of a hemorrhoidal cream or suppository to the affected area for a limited time can be used to treat hemorrhoids and relieve itching and discomfort.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
In some cases, a blood clot may form within a hemorrhoid. In a rubber band ligation, a doctor places one or two tiny rubber bands around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its circulation, causing the hemorrhoid to fall off within a few days, states the Mayo Clinic. A method using an injection directly into the hemorrhoid (sclerotherapy) may be used to shrink hemorrhoid tissue. This method may not be as effective as a rubber band ligation. With the use of laser or infrared coagulation, laser or infrared light is applied to the affected area. This will cause hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel up.
Surgery
A physician may have to preform surgery--a hemorrhoidectomy--to remove severe hemorrhoids. This surgery requires anesthesia and a possible overnight stay in the hospital. In some cases, a surgical procedure known as stapling may be done to remove hemorrhoids. According to the Mayo Clinic, stapling generally involves less pain than hemorrhoidectomy and allows an earlier return to work. Your physician will help you determine the best course of treatment based on your individual case.
