The Rubber Banding of Hemorrhoids

A conversation with the doctor about hemorrhoids may lead to a rubber band ligation.

Hemorrhoids occur out of sight of the sufferer. Blood vessels swelling inside the anus form an internal hemorrhoid, resulting in potential bleeding and pain. While several methods of treatment exist, rubber band ligation offers an effective way to reduce and remove certain hemorrhoids. A discussion of hemorrhoids with a physician may generate temporary embarrassment, but treatment of them prevents serious complications.

Identification

For many people, the first suspicion of hemorrhoids comes with the appearance of blood on toilet tissue following a bowel movement or on underwear. Home remedies such as ointments may be employed in an attempt to avoid visiting a doctor. Bleeding may originate from other problems besides hemorrhoids. Digestive ailments and colorectal cancer cause bleeding as well, according to the Mayo Clinic. Examination by a physician is the most definitive way to diagnose the source of rectal bleeding.

Prevention/Solution

Hemorrhoids may result from straining to pass a bowel movement, physical exertion or a genetic predisposition to hemorrhoids. Pregnant women may develop hemorrhoids due to uterine pressure on the veins. Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet, which can lead to hemorrhoids. Home treatments include soothing ointments and wipes, sitz baths, increasing mild exercise, eating high-fiber foods or supplements to relieve constipation and making a conscious effort to increase water consumption. Any improvement to bowel function will aid in reducing the occurrence and irritation of hemorrhoids. Left untreated, hemorrhoids can lead to anemia because of excessive bleeding or in rare cases, gangrene. When home remedies fail to provide relief or bleeding continues, consult a physician.

Benefits

Rubber band ligation is a cost-effective approach to treatment, according to the Bombay Hospital Journal. The doctor wraps two tiny rubber bands around the stem of the hemorrhoid while the patient is under local anesthesia. The second band acts as a backup in case the first one breaks. Within a few days, the hemorrhoid begins to wither as its blood supply fails and eventually sloughs off. An out-patient procedure, rubber band ligation allows the patient to return home the same day.

Considerations

Patients may experience minor bleeding and mild pain during the recovery. Infrequent occurrences of minor infection have been reported. A warm sitz bath and/or a non-aspirin OTC pain reliever will provide relief in most cases.

Expert Insight

Two to four procedures will completely eliminate the hemorrhoid, according to Harvard Women's Health Watch. Allow a six- to eight-week period between ligations.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Hemorrhoids
• Bombay Hospital Journal: Comparison of Rubber Band Ligation and Injection Sclerotherapy for First and Second Degree Haemorrhoids
• Harvard Women's Health Watch: Hemorrhoids and What to Do About Them