Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are enlarged veins in the rectum or anus that are caused by increased pressure in the veins. Some hemorrhoids are painful and may bleed. The condition can occur at any age, but is more often noted in adults. Chronic constipation, diarrhea, obesity and pregnancy are some contributing factors in the development of hemorrhoids, according to the Merck Manuals Medical Library. Treatment options range from home measures to surgery.
Home Treatment
Most minor hemorrhoids respond well to non-prescription topical treatments. These include creams, ointments and suppositories that help reduce swelling and pain. Sitting in a tub of very warm water for 10 minutes, called taking a sitz bath, is soothing and healing to the inflamed tissues. Since straining during a bowel movement creates and worsens the condition, getting plenty of fiber in the diet by eating fruits and vegetables is important. Drinking six to eight glasses of water a day can help prevent constipation, and result in a softer stool. A doctor may recommend a stool softener as an additional measure. Harvard Health Publications suggests 20 to 30 minutes of daily aerobic exercise to help promote regular bowel movements.
Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation is sometimes used in cases when more conservative measures fail, or when a hemorrhoid is very large. The procedure involves placement of a rubber band around the base of each hemorrhoid. Sometimes a local anesthetic is applied. Putting a rubber band around the hemorrhoid, or ligating it, causes it to die and slough off. Several separate treatments might be needed.
Sclerotherapy
This treatment is usually performed on bleeding, internal hemorrhoids. This treatment damages the hemorrhoid tissue with a chemical or saline solution, called sclerosants. The hemorrhoid then becomes inflamed, and the resulting scar causes it to shrivel up.
Coagulation Therapy
Infrared photocoagulation is a widely used hemorrhoid treatment, particularly useful when a hemorrhoid is small and painful. It has few complications, and is not a painful procedure, so an anesthetic is not necessary. An infrared light heats the tissue, causing it to harden and shrink. This method of treatment is not generally as successful as rubber band ligation, and the hemorrhoids tend to come back, reports the MayoClinic.
Staples
Performed under general anesthesia, this method involves stapling the hemorrhoid to attach it into its normal position. It is used for bleeding or prolapsed hemorrhoids. Recovery is fairly quick, and it only needs to be done once.
Surgey
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical treatment used when less invasive treatments fail. This method entails the removal of the affected tissue using either local or general anesthetic. Complications after the surgery are common, including constipation and difficulty urinating, according to Merck Manuals Medical Library.
