Hemorrhoid Surgery — Overview
Piles is alternative name of Hemorrhoid, which is easily removed by different methods. Hemorrhoid Surgery is one of the best method to remove. Additionally, in this article you will know full details about hemorrhoids. keep reading…
How to stop hemorrhoid bleeding instantly
What is the main reason of piles?
Hemorrhoid surgery cover under health insurance
Easing hemorrhoid symptoms with supplements
Tips for Using Supplements for Hemorrhoids
What is Hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your lower rectum and anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. So, Hemorrhoids can develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).
Hemorrhoid Surgery
Hemorrhoid surgery is a procedure used to treat severe or persistent hemorrhoids that do not respond to other, less invasive treatments. This surgery, also known as hemorrhoidectomy, involves the removal of hemorrhoidal tissue. It can be performed under local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids and the patient’s overall health. It’s important to note that like all surgeries, hemorrhoid surgery comes with potential risks and complications, and it’s usually considered only after other treatment options have failed.
Types of Hemorrhoid Surgery
There are several types of hemorrhoid surgery, each with its own advantages and best suited for different severities of hemorrhoids. Here’s a breakdown of the common ones:
Minimally Invasive Procedures (Often done in a doctor’s office):
Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation is a common treatment technique for hemorrhoids, particularly suitable for medium-sized internal ones. During this treatment, a healthcare provider applies a tiny rubber band to the base of the hemorrhoid, effectively cutting off its blood supply. As a result, the hemorrhoid shrinks and typically falls off within a week. This procedure can be done in a healthcare provider’s office without the need for anesthesia. Though it’s usually safe and effective, some patients might experience minor discomfort or bleeding following the procedure.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is another treatment option for hemorrhoids. This procedure involves the injection of a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid tissue, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear. Sclerotherapy is typically used for treating small, internal hemorrhoids. It’s a less invasive procedure compared to surgery and can be performed in a doctor’s office without anesthesia. However, sclerotherapy may not be suitable for larger hemorrhoids or for those who have had hemorrhoid surgery in the past.
Coagulation Therapy
Coagulation therapy is yet another treatment option for hemorrhoids. It utilizes infrared, laser, or bipolar coagulation to create localized burns in the hemorrhoid tissue. So, These burns promote scarring and shrink the hemorrhoids.
Doctors generally use coagulation therapy for small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids and it is less invasive than a hemorrhoidectomy. A doctor can perform this procedure in their office without general anesthesia. However, a patient might need multiple treatments to effectively control hemorrhoid symptoms.
Surgical Procedures (Usually done in a hospital setting)
Hemorrhoidectomy: This is the surgical removal of hemorrhoidal tissue. It can be performed with different techniques:
- Closed Hemorrhoidectomy: The most common type, where the wound is stitched closed.
- Open Hemorrhoidectomy: The wound is left open to heal on its own.
- Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy: Hemorrhoidal tissue is stapled back into place within the anal canal.
Hemorrhoidopexy: The hemorrhoids are repositioned back inside the anal canal without removing tissue.
Piles Symptoms
Here are the common symptoms of hemorrhoids, also known as piles:
Bleeding:
- Bright red blood on toilet paper, stool, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement. This is often the first noticeable symptom.
Pain:
- Discomfort, pain, or aching around the anus, especially while sitting.
- Pain during bowel movements.
Itching:
- Itchy and irritated skin around the anus.
Swelling:
- Lumps or hard swellings near the anus (external hemorrhoids).
- Prolapsed hemorrhoids (internal hemorrhoids that push through the anus).
Other symptoms:
- Mucus discharge from the anus.
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movement even after going to the toilet.
Important Note: While bleeding is a common symptom, if you experience heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop or blood clots with severe pain, seek immediate medical attention.
Here’s a breakdown of symptoms based on the type of hemorrhoid:
Internal Hemorrhoids:
- Often no symptoms, especially in early stages.
- Blood on toilet paper or stool.
- Prolapsed hemorrhoids may cause pain, discomfort, and irritation.
External Hemorrhoids:
- Pain, itching, and discomfort around the anus.
- Lumps or swellings near the anus.
- Bleeding, especially if a blood clot forms within the hemorrhoid.
Is piles dangerous?
While hemorrhoids themselves are not directly life-threatening, they can lead to some complications in rare cases. You can understand why piles are generally not considered dangerous here.
You can expect that most cases resolve on their own. Because many hemorrhoids, especially internal ones, cause mild discomfort and go away without requiring medical intervention. Treatments can be effective for managing symptoms and shrinking hemorrhoids, including several home remedies and medical treatments. Importantly, you don’t face any life-threatening risk, as hemorrhoids don’t directly cause death or severe health complications.
However, in some situations, hemorrhoids can lead to issues that require medical attention:
If you experience severe bleeding, especially bright red blood in large amounts, it could indicate a more serious condition, and you need medical evaluation. Additionally, in rare cases, an internal hemorrhoid can prolapse and have its blood supply cut off, leading to severe pain, tissue death, and potential infection. Chronic blood loss from hemorrhoids can, over time, lead to iron deficiency and anemia for you.
While these complications are not common, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience:
If you experience persistent or severe bleeding, it could indicate a more serious condition requiring treatment. Extreme pain, particularly if it doesn’t subside with home remedies, might signal a strangulated hemorrhoid or other underlying issues. Additionally, check Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus discharge, or fever around the anus, could indicate an infected hemorrhoid.
How to stop hemorrhoid bleeding instantly
While there isn’t a guaranteed instant solution to stop hemorrhoid bleeding completely, here are some measures that can help manage and potentially slow down the bleeding:
What is the main reason of piles?
Typically hemorrhoids occur when the veins around the anus or lower rectum become swollen and inflamed. The main reasons for piles can include:
- Strain during bowel movements: This is one of the most common causes. Straining during bowel movements due to constipation or diarrhea can put pressure on the veins in the rectal area, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea: Both conditions can contribute to the development of piles. Constipation can cause straining during bowel movements, while diarrhea can irritate the rectal area.
- Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the veins in the pelvic area during pregnancy can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
- Sitting or standing for long periods: Remaining in one position for extended periods can increase pressure on the veins in the lower rectum, making you more susceptible to developing piles.
- Additional factors contributing to the occurrence of piles include aging, obesity, heavy lifting, anal intercourse, as well as genetic predisposition.
Hemorrhoid surgery cover under health insurance in USA
In the USA, hemorrhoid surgery is generally covered under most health insurance plans, but with some important factors to consider:
Easing hemorrhoid symptoms with supplements
While supplements aren’t a cure for hemorrhoids, some can help ease symptoms by addressing underlying causes or providing specific benefits:
Fiber Supplements
- Main benefit: Softening stool and preventing constipation, a major trigger for hemorrhoids.
- Common types: Psyllium husk (Metamucil), methylcellulose (Citrucel), calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon), guar gum (Benefiber).
Phlebotonics
- Main benefit: Potentially strengthening blood vessel walls and improving circulation, which might be beneficial for hemorrhoids.
- Common types: Horse chestnut seed extract, butcher’s broom extract, witch hazel extract.
Other Supplements
- Triphala: An Ayurvedic herbal blend with potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Some studies suggest that it may help with hemorrhoid symptoms, but researchers need to conduct more studies.
- Witch hazel: May provide astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, offering temporary relief from itching and discomfort.
Tips for Using Supplements for Hemorrhoids
Consult your doctor: Before starting any supplement, discuss it with your doctor to ensure it’s safe and doesn’t interact with any medications you’re taking.
Start with low doses: Begin with the lowest recommended dosage and gradually increase if needed.
Focus on a healthy diet: Supplements are most effective when combined with a fiber-rich diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Manage expectations: Supplements are unlikely to completely cure hemorrhoids, but they may offer some relief from symptoms.
When is Hemorrhoid Surgery Necessary?
Surgery is generally recommended in cases where:
- Hemorrhoids cause severe discomfort, pain, or bleeding that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
- Hemorrhoids are large and prolapsed (protrude outside the anus).
- If you have recurrent hemorrhoids despite lifestyle changes and medications, surgery may be necessary.
Recovery after Hemorrhoid Surgery
Recovery time varies but typically takes 1-2 weeks. It can involve:
- Discomfort and pain around the anus, managed with medication.
- Sitz baths for soothing and cleaning the area.
- Dietary adjustments to prevent constipation.
- Activity restrictions in some cases.
FAQ
Recovery from hemorrhoid surgery typically takes two to three weeks. However, it could take up to six weeks for some individuals, depending on their overall health and the severity of the hemorrhoids.
Average cost of a hemorrhoidectomy in the US is around $9,592 to $12,000. Additionally, This amount varies based on Type of surgery method, Facility Fees, Anesthesia, Surgeon’s Fees, and Geographic Location.
In India, the average cost of hemorrhoid surgery ranges from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 55,000. However, the cost can fluctuate based on the severity of the hemorrhoid, with prices ranging from approximately Rs. 7,800 to Rs. 1,40,000.
The average cost of hemorrhoid surgery in Mexico is around $4,067 USD. However, prices typically range between $2,675 USD and $5,351 USD, significantly lower than in many other countries.
The average cost of hemorrhoid surgery in UAE ranges approximatively between AED 20000 and AED 35000. Factors such as the severity of the hemorrhoids, the type of procedure performed, and the hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed can vary the cost.
The average cost of hemorrhoid surgery in the UK can range between £1,200 and £3,000. Additionally, Its cost depending on the severity of the condition and the type of procedure performed.
The cost of hemorrhoid surgery in Australia without private health insurance can range from around $3,500 to $7,000 or more.