Hemorrhoids, How Bad Do They Have To Be For Surgery?
A Hemorrhoid is a swollen vein inside the anal canal or around the anus. Hemorrhoids are not severe, but they can be painful and may bleed. Hemorrhoids are very common in adults. They most often go away on their own, but sometimes they require treatment to get better.
Symptoms may include:
- Burning or itching around your anus, mucus discharge from your rectum.
- Bleeding during bowel movements.
- Feeling like you have incomplete bowel movements.
- Hard lump near the anus that causes pain or bleeding.
When Does a Hemorrhoid Become Bad Enough for Surgery?
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, consult your primary care physician for further evaluation, especially if they become bothersome. Hemorrhoids are graded on a scale of 1 to 4, with grade 1 being the least severe and grade 4 being the most severe. Hemorrhoids that do not cause any discomfort or bleeding are typically left untreated. Hemorrhoids that cause pain or bleeding may require treatment, including lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, or surgery.
There are a variety of surgeries for, each with its risks and benefits. Surgeries are typically outpatient procedures and are generally considered safe. However, there is always a risk for complications, as with any surgery.
Surgery is typically permanent, although depending on the procedure, some may be reversed. Surgeries can often require additional follow-up care to get better, which also carries its risks.
It is not uncommon for patients to have repeat surgery on their hemorrhoids to alleviate recurring symptoms. Still, repeated surgeries come with additional risks associated with anesthesia and wound healing. Removal is one of the most common procedures performed by general surgeons and colorectal surgeons. Many people are dissatisfied after having surgery because there are many treatment options.
Hemroids are common and can be found in both men and women. Hemorrhoids, or piles as they are also known, are extremely common in people over 50. They can affect all ages, even children. Although they do not lead to severe medical conditions, they can cause significant pain and discomfort for many patients.
Hemorrhoids may be internal or external, depending upon their location relative to the opening of the anus. Numerous factors contribute to hemorrhoid Formation:
- Prolonged sitting on a toilet bowl during bowel movements,
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Straining during bowel movements
- Poor dietary habits, including a lack of fiber in the diet.
Hemorrhoids can often be diagnosed by symptoms alone. However, your doctor may order additional testing if they are suspected. Treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition and include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or surgery.
What Types of Surgeries are There for Hemorrhoids?
There are two main types of surgeries for Hemorrhoids:
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia that involves cutting or removing the hemorrhoid tissue. Hemorrhoidectomy is a permanent solution. Hemorrhoidectomy has some risks as associated with any surgery, including anesthesia and wound healing.
Hemorrhoidectomy is typically an outpatient procedure, and patients can typically return to work within a few days. hemorrhoidectomy often requires additional follow-up care to get better, which also carries its risks.
Are Hemorrhoid Surgeries Permanent?
Hemorrhoidopexy is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia that involves suturing or stapling the hemorrhoid tissue in place. Hemorrhoidopexy is not as commonly performed as hemorrhoidectomy and has a higher recurrence rate than hemorrhoidectomy. Hemorrhoidopexy is also considered a permanent solution to hemorrhoids and can be challenging to reverse.
Hemorrhoidopexy is typically an outpatient procedure, and patients can typically return to work within a few days. Hemorrhoid treatments vary depending on the severity of the condition and include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or surgery.
Ask your doctor about HemWell, an FDA-approved, pain-free treatment that’s permanent. If your provider doesn’t offer HemWell, we can assist you in finding one that does. Please visit our website to learn more about this life-changing treatment. Learn more about hemorrhoids.