Healthy Life: HELP FOR HEMORRHOIDS

KCRG TV-9 News at 5 on March 4, 2008

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By Ashley Hinson

Story Created: Mar 5, 2008 at 3:46 AM CST

Story Updated: Mar 5, 2008 at 3:46 AM CST

BACKGROUND: Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable condition resulting from the inflammation of the veins around the anus and/or lower rectum. The condition arises from straining to move stool. Other contributing factors include pregnancy, aging, chronic diarrhea and anal intercourse. Hemorrhoids arise either inside the anus or under the skin of the anus. It is a common condition for both men and women, though it is rarely discussed and many patents are embarrassed to admit they suffer from it. Because of this "taboo" label hemorrhoids have, many patients will suffer in pain and discomfort rather than seeking treatment. In fact, in the , about half of the population will suffer from hemorrhoids by age 50.

TREATMENT: Most hemorrhoids go away within several days. Doctors recommend patients take tub baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes until symptoms subside. Over the counter hemorrhoid creams may also help reduce symptoms until the condition goes away. However, for some patients, the condition persists. More advanced techniques are necessary to treat some patients.

· Rubber band ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside the rectum. The band cuts off circulation, and the hemorrhoid withers away within a few days. However, in rare occasions, the bands can slip off or snap, causing significant pain.

· Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected around the blood vessel to shrink the hemorrhoid.

· Hemorrhoidectomy: Occasionally, extensive or severe internal or external hemorrhoids may require removal by surgery known as hemorrhoidectomy.

Infrared coagulation is another method to treat persistent hemorrhoids. Using infrared light -- the same kind of light fast food restaurants use to keep your food warm while you're waiting to buy it -- but in a much more focused form, doctors can "burn off" a specific point of the hemorrhoid. It seals the tissue off so it naturally shrinks back and reduces its size, swelling and discomfort. Doctors apply the light for about one second to the top of the hemorrhoid. There are no pain nerves at the top of a hemorrhoid, so the patient should feel no pain -- only a mild warmth. It is performed as an outpatient procedure using a mild sedative and the entire process takes less than five minutes.

PREVENTION: According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Exercise, including walking, and increased fiber in the diet help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Temple University Health System

Patient Information Line

(800) TEMPLE-MED