Best Internal Hemorrhoid Treatment Options
Internal hemorrhoids, sometimes referred to as piles, can be an uncomfortable and inconvenient condition, but the good news is that several effective treatment options are available. Whether you prefer natural remedies or medical interventions, choosing the best internal hemorrhoid treatment option will help you feel more at ease.
Lifestyle Changes
One of the simplest and most effective ways to manage internal hemorrhoids or piles is through lifestyle adjustments. Increasing your daily fiber intake can help soften stools and reduce the strain during bowel movements. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are excellent sources of fiber. Drinking plenty of water and engaging in regular physical activity can also support digestive health and prevent constipation, a common trigger for hemorrhoids.
Over-the-Counter Internal Hemorrhoid Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments can be a great starting point for mild to moderate cases. Products like hydrocortisone creams, suppositories, and medicated wipes help reduce inflammation, itching, and discomfort. These treatments provide temporary relief but may not address the root cause of the issue.
Surgical & Non-Surgical Options
In more extreme cases where OTC remedies and lifestyle changes have failed, surgery may be recommended. Hemorrhoidectomy, the surgical removal of hemorrhoids, is typically reserved for large or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, involves stapling the last section of the large bowel, which reduces the supply of blood to the hemorrhoids and causes them to shrink.
Selecting the best internal hemorrhoid treatment options depends on the severity of your condition and your personal preferences. If you are unsure which option is right for you, consult with our specialists to discuss your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan.
However, this treatment route comes with complications like additional pain, potential for infection, and lengthy recovery. Additionally, surgery is typically performed in a hospital setting, adding to the overall cost of treatment.
Now, a less invasive technique called Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE) is available. HAE is performed in an outpatient setting by an interventional radiologist who inserts a tiny catheter into an artery in your upper thigh and then uses X-ray imaging to guide it through the body’s blood vessels to the rectal artery. Special coils are inserted into the artery to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. The success rate of this procedure is greater than 90%.
If you’ve been diagnosed with hemorrhoids or suspect you may be experiencing them, the team at North Star Vascular & Interventional is ready to help. Contact our team to schedule a consultation for internal hemorrhoid treatment.
