Hemorroidal Banding

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a very common condition caused by swollen veins in the anal canal.     They frequently cause pain, bleeding, rectal irritation and itching.   It affects all people especially pregnant women and people who sit for long periods of time.    Chronic constipation and dry stool that is hard to pass is often a major causative factor.

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids:

Hemorrhoids may be external or internal.    External hemorrhoids look and feel like soft pads of tissue just outside the anus.   They can sometimes cause severe throbbing pain when a blood clot forms in them.   This is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid.   Internal hemorrhoids are usually caused by a cluster of swollen veins on the inside along the anal canal.   These are not visible by patients and usually cause bright red bleeding.     Bleeding from this area may sometimes be caused by a fissure which is a small break in the skin and not related to hemorrhoids.

How are Hemorrhoids treated?:

Many over the counter remedies exist for hemorrhoids.   Typically nonprescription medications such as medicated pads, ointments and creams can be applied to the outside of the anus for relief.   Suppositories are also sometimes used.

Adequate fiber in the diet is helpful as this bulks the stool and makes it softer.   This will help treat constipation and makes the stool softer for passage through the anal canal.   Remember,  It is also  important to increase your water intake as well!   Sometimes an over the counter stool softener is also recommended.

Sitz baths are frequently used for relief.   This requires sitting in a tub of warm water and allowing the hemorrhoids to soak. Surgical treatment (hemorrhoidectomy) is very rarely needed

What about Hemorrhoidal Banding?

Another option available for treating hemorrhoids involves a technique called ‘banding’.  This is a more permanent solution that takes care of the problem – not just the symptom.     The procedure involves the use of small rubber bands that are placed around the hemorrhoid cutting off its blood supply and effectively removing them.      This procedure can be done easily in the office without the need for anesthesia and takes less than 15 minutes.

In our office we use the CRH O’Regan System which is a comfortable and simple method for treated hemorrhoids.    Ask our doctors if you are a candidate for this procedure. http://www.crhsystem.com/contact_us.html