About Hemorrhoid Removal
Some procedures shrink or remove them, such as using a laser, which can be done in your doctor's office. However, surgery might be a better long-term decision, especially if your hemorrhoids are large and very painful or bleeding.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins located in the lower part of the rectum and anus. They are akin to varicose veins and can develop internally within the rectum or externally under the skin around the anus. The condition becomes particularly noticeable when these veins are inflamed or swollen, leading to a variety of symptoms and discomforts.
Internally, hemorrhoids may not be visible or cause significant pain, but they can lead to painless bleeding during bowel movements, where one might observe small amounts of bright red blood either on the toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl. In some cases, internal hemorrhoids can protrude through the anal opening, a condition known as prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoids, which can result in pain and irritation.
External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be felt as lumps under the skin around the anus and can cause itching, irritation, pain, and swelling in the affected area. In more severe cases, blood can pool in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot, leading to intense pain, inflammation, and a hard, discolored lump near the anus, known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
The exact causes of hemorrhoids are not entirely clear, but several factors contribute to their development. These include straining during bowel movements, sitting for prolonged periods (especially on the toilet), chronic diarrhea or constipation, obesity, pregnancy, anal intercourse, a low-fiber diet, and regularly lifting heavy objects. As people age, the risk of developing hemorrhoids increases due to the weakening and stretching of the tissues that support the veins in the rectum and anus.
Why is Hemorrhoid Removal needed?
Hemorrhoid removal, medically referred to as hemorrhoidectomy, is a procedure considered when hemorrhoids cause severe symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments. The necessity for removal arises from the complications and discomfort that hemorrhoids can cause, impacting the quality of life.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. While many hemorrhoids can be managed with dietary changes, topical treatments, and other non-invasive methods, some cases require more definitive treatment. Removal is needed when hemorrhoids become excessively large, cause significant bleeding, or are associated with intense pain, especially if they have thrombosed (developed blood clots).