Getting Rid of Hemorrhoids: What Works & What Doesn’t

Unfortunately, hemorrhoids are very common. However, these enlarged or inflamed veins in the anorectal area are easily treatable, especially with help from your gastroenterologist. It’s time to clear up what does and doesn’t work to rid yourself of those unpleasant hemorrhoids – and to clear up some common misconceptions. We’ve provided a review below:

Treating Hemorrhoids – What Works 

• Hemorrhoid Banding: The CRH O-Regan System, otherwise known as hemorrhoid banding, is a quick, painless procedure performed by a gastroenterologist to treat hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid banding is a non-surgical technique featuring a small rubber band placed around the base of each hemorrhoid. This band will cause the hemorrhoid to shrink and fall off eventually. Your doctor can remove hemorrhoids in just three visits, each banding taking only a few minutes. Patients typically return to their normal daily routines quickly after hemorrhoid banding.

Experts highly recommend hemorrhoid banding for those who are experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms, some of which include:

• Rectal bleeding (usually painless)
• Pain or itching in the anal area
• Bulging tissue around the anus

Your doctor will diagnose hemorrhoids by way of a physical examination. Testing can also include a colonoscopy if necessary.

Treating Hemorrhoids – What Doesn’t Work

Misconceptions regarding hemorrhoid treatment sometimes center on mistaken ideas as to how a hemorrhoid starts. Consider these three possibilities: (1) Only older people get hemorrhoids. (2)  Sitting on cold or hard surfaces for long periods will give you hemorrhoids. (3) Once you get them, hemorrhoids are permanent – only the symptoms vary.

The fact is, not one of the above notions is true. Yes, people ages 45-65 are more likely to get hemorrhoids due to weakening anal muscles, but this does not mean that younger individuals are not susceptible. Sitting on cold, hard surfaces does not increase the chance of getting hemorrhoids, and hemorrhoids are not permanent when treated correctly.

Home remedies such as diet and lifestyle changes can potentially treat and even prevent hemorrhoids, but it’s really best to consult a gastroenterologist if you find that home remedies are not providing relief or that your hemorrhoids are returning frequently.