The rectum is the last part of the digestive tract. Internal hemorrhoids form on the walls of the rectum due to pressure that causes the muscles to become weak. This causes veins to become swollen and inflamed. Pain, discomfort and rectal bleeding can all be seen when internal hemorrhoids develop and there are several ways they can be treated.
Closure
Internal hemorrhoids have mucous membranes near them. Injection sclerotherapy is a procedure where your doctor injects a chemical substance into this membrane. The veins become inflamed and closed off, and the hemorrhoid then shrinks.
Ligation
Rubber band ligation is a procedure that utilizes one or two small rubber bands. Your doctor inserts these around the bottom of the hemorrhoid to cut off the circulation supply. The bands stay on the hemorrhoids for several days and without a supply of blood, they eventually fall off. This procedure can cause slight bleeding a few days after the treatment.
Clotting
Coagulation is another term for "clotting." In infrared photocoagulation, an infrared light is used to on the veins that supply the hemorrhoid with blood. They form clots and the internal hemorrhoid shrivels and shrinks. With this procedure, there is a chance that the hemorrhoids can come back.
Electricity
Laser coagulation is a procedure where an electrical current is sent through an electrode probe. The blood supply to the internal hemorrhoid gets cut off because of a chemical reaction that takes place. The inflamed tissue then shrivels up and the hemorrhoid dissipates.
Surgery
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure that is done to remove the hemorrhoids and any bleeding tissues. This procedure is done with local anesthetic, general anesthetic, spinal anesthetic or complete sedation. It is an outpatient procedure or overnight stay and, according to the Mayo Clinic, it is one of the most effective ways to remove hemorrhoids. Medications and soaking in a warm bath after the surgery are also recommended to alleviate any pain post-surgery.
