Internal Hemorrhoids Treatment in Bergen County
Internal hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort, bleeding, and irritation, yet they are often misunderstood. While many people assume any rectal symptom is caused by hemorrhoids, this isn’t always the case. Understanding what internal hemorrhoids are, why they develop, and when they require treatment is essential for protecting your health.
One important fact surprises many patients: everyone has hemorrhoids. We are born with these normal cushions of blood vessels inside the anal canal. They help maintain continence by creating a seal that prevents gas and stool from leaking. Hemorrhoids only become a problem when these blood vessels become enlarged or swollen, leading to symptoms such as bleeding, prolapse, itching, or discomfort.
Because hemorrhoids are a normal part of your anatomy, treatment is only recommended when they become symptomatic. For most patients with internal hemorrhoids, Rubber Band Ligation is the first-line treatment. This quick, minimally invasive procedure can often be performed in the office. If surgery is necessary, Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD) is typically our preferred option. Compared with a traditional hemorrhoidectomy, THD usually causes less pain and allows for a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Symptoms from Internal Hemorrhoids
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements
- Itching and irritation in the anal region
- Prolapse, or hemorrhoids that protrude outside the anus
- Discomfort and pain if hemorrhoids prolapse and become trapped
What causes symptomatic internal hemorrhoids?
The primary causes of symptomatic internal hemorrhoids include:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
These factors increase pressure in the lower rectum, causing veins to swell and become inflamed.
What do internal hemorrhoids feel like?
Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins located inside the rectum. Unlike external hemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus, internal hemorrhoids are usually painless but can cause bleeding and other symptoms. The grading of Internal Hemorrhoids is based on their severity, ranging from Grade I (mild) to Grade IV (severe).
How to diagnose internal hemorrhoids
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. They may also use additional diagnostic methods such as:
Anoscopy: A small, tubular device to view the lining of the anus and lower rectum.
Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: To rule out other conditions and evaluate the hemorrhoids.
Internal Hemorrhoids Treatments
When it comes to treating internal hemorrhoids, the options typically depend on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms a patient is experiencing. At HSG, we focus on providing the most effective and minimally invasive treatments to ensure our patients receive the best care with minimal downtime. Among the various treatment methods, Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD) stands out as the primary treatment option for internal hemorrhoids due to its effectiveness and low recurrence rate.
THD is a highly specialized procedure designed specifically for treating internal hemorrhoids. It is particularly effective for Grades II to IV hemorrhoids, where symptoms such as prolapse and significant bleeding are more common. The procedure works by using a Doppler ultrasound to identify the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. Once these arteries are located, they are tied off, which significantly reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue. The next step involves tying the hemorrhoids back up into the rectum, thereby improving the return of blood flow. This reduction in blood supply, and improvement in venous return, causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and retract.
Why THD Is Ideal for Internal Hemorrhoids:
- Precision Targeting: THD specifically targets the blood vessels feeding the internal hemorrhoids, addressing the root cause of the problem without the need for extensive tissue removal.
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional hemorrhoidectomy, THD is less invasive and does not require ANY incisions, leading to a quicker recovery time and less post-operative pain.
- Low Recurrence Rate: By effectively cutting off the blood supply, THD significantly reduces the likelihood of hemorrhoids returning, making it a long-term solution for many patients.
This approach makes THD the preferred choice for treating internal hemorrhoids, particularly those that have not responded well to other treatments or those that are recurrent.
Another option for treating internal hemorrhoids is Rubber Band Ligation. This procedure is best suited for smaller, less severe internal hemorrhoids (typically Grade II or III). During RBL, a small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid will then shrink and eventually fall off within a few days or so. While RBL is effective for milder cases, it may not be sufficient for more severe hemorrhoids, where THD would be a more appropriate choice.
For cases where internal hemorrhoids are particularly severe, have not responded to other treatments, or there is significant external hemorrhoid symptoms, Hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary. This surgical procedure involves the complete removal of both the internal and external hemorrhoids. It is typically reserved for the most advanced cases, such as Grade III and IV hemorrhoids, where the hemorrhoidal tissue has prolapsed and cannot be managed by less invasive methods.
Why Hemorrhoidectomy Might Be Required:
- Complete Removal: Hemorrhoidectomy removes the hemorrhoid entirely, which can be necessary for very large or recurrent hemorrhoids.
- Definitive Solution: It offers a permanent solution by eliminating the hemorrhoid tissue altogether, reducing the risk of recurrence.
- Severe Cases: Often recommended for cases where THD or RBL are not sufficient, particularly when there are significant external hemorrhoids.
Why Choose THD for Internal Hemorrhoids?
While Hemorrhoidectomy and Rubber Band Ligation are effective treatments, THD offers several advantages, especially for internal hemorrhoids that are causing significant symptoms but do not yet require full surgical removal. The ability of THD to precisely target the blood vessels responsible for hemorrhoid formation makes it an excellent choice for reducing both symptoms and the risk of recurrence with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Additionally, Dr. Mansouri, the expert hemorrhoid doctor at Heritage Surgical Group utilizes a specialized local anesthetic during the THD procedure. This innovative approach provides effective pain relief for TWO DAYS following the procedure, significantly longer than the typical few hours with standard anesthetics. This advanced technique helps ensure a more comfortable and smoother recovery experience for patients.
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns, conditions, or treatment options. Individual results may vary. The services described are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Any medical procedure should be discussed thoroughly with a licensed professional before beginning treatment.