Hemorrhoids

DO YOU HAVE HEMORRHOIDS?

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

It's not an easy thing to talk about, so most people don't. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common and troubling conditions of mankind. In fact, nearly one-third of the population has symptomatic hemorrhoids, and the incidence increases to 50% after age 55. Over-the-counter suppositories and creams have little more than a placebo effect and offer only temporary relief at best. Most people chose to suffer and will avoid or postpone treatment because of the tremendous pain and extensive recovery time associated with a surgical hemorrhoidectomy.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen (varicose) veins of the lower rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins of the legs. Hemorrhoids are classified as internal (located inside the anus), external (located outside anus), or mixed (located inside and outside the anus).

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when the veins of the rectum and anus stretch and dilate due to increased pressure. This increased pressure can come from straining during bowel movements. Also, heredity, aging, being overweight, pregnancy, strenuous physical exertion, overuse of laxative and enemas, and prolonged sitting contribute to the development of  hemorrhoids.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoidal symptoms often begin with painless rectal bleeding. This blood appears bright red on the toilet paper or stool. Over time, the symptoms will progress and will often lead to pain, swelling or protrusions, itching, and discharge (soilage). The symptoms of hemorrhoids will usually intensify over the years, which is why early treatment is so important.

Have any new treatments been developed?

Yes. To relieve the suffering without the need for painful surgery, we perform new treatments called Infrared Light Coagulation (IRC) and Ultroid Hemorrhoidlysis. These procedures are quick, easy, painless and bloodless, rendering excellent and long-lasting results, and are performed in the comfortable surroundings of our office. The cost is  about one-fourth the cost of traditional hospital surgery and is covered by Medicare and most insurance companies.

What exactly is Infrared Light Coagulation (IRC ^TM)?

Since its introduction 20 years ago, infrared coagulation (IRC^TM) has become the worlds leading office treatment for hemorrhoids. This non-surgical treatment is fast, well tolerated, and remarkably complication-free. A small probe is place above the hemorrhoid and a few short bursts of infrared light are applied. The infrared light quickly coagulates the vessels that provide the hemorrhoid with blood, causing the hemorrhoid tissues to shrink and recede. Shrinkage of the hemorrhoid tissues may take a few weeks.

Download Hemorrhoid Brochure (PDF)

What exactly is Hemorrhoidlysis?

Hemorrhoidlysis incorporates a proven device that applies a safe and painless microcurrent to the base of the hemorrhoid. This method does not burn or cauterize the tissue, but induces a chemical reaction that gently dissolves the diseased veins, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink and recede. Hemorrhoidlysis is painless, safe and effective, and is virtually problem-free.

How does Infrared Light Coagulation and Hemorrhoidlysis? compare to other procedures available?

Is there any special preparation required before IRC or Hemorrhoidlysis?

No. The procedure requires no fasting, no special diet, no enema, and requires no anesthesia.

What should I expect during the procedure?

Before treatment, our provider will conduct a painless anoscopic exam to document your hemorrhoidal disease. This examination takes just a few minutes. The IRC or Hemorrhoidlysis procedure is then performed. Depending on the severity of your hemorrhoids, treatment time will last 5 to 15 minutes.

How do I know which procedure I need?

We will determine that at the time of your examination.

How many treatments are required?

Depending on the severity of your hemorrhoids, on average 3 to 8 visits are usually required and are scheduled two weeks apart.

What if I don't treat them?

Hemorrhoids, when left untreated only get worse. Symptoms will increase. They may reach a point where surgical intervention is the only treatment option. We feel it is better to treat them before they get to this point.

Can I be treated if my hemorrhoids are actively bleeding?

Yes. Your first IRC or Hemorrhoidlysis treatment should immediately reduce your bleeding.

Can I have the IRC or Hemorrhoidlysis treatment if I'm on medication?

In most cases, yes. During your initial examination, we will determine if you are a good candidate for IRC and/or Hemorrhoidlysis.

What about after the procedure?

Each visit takes just a few minutes and you can immediately resume normal activities. And you should experience no pain following the procedure.