A Comprehensive Guide to Hemorrhoids Surgery Treatment

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins located in the anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. Hemorrhoids can develop inside the rectum, known as internal hemorrhoids, or under the skin around the anus, known as external hemorrhoids.

Several treatment options are available for hemorrhoids. Many individuals find relief through home treatments and lifestyle changes.

Cause:

The main cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the lower rectum, leading to the swelling in the veins around the anus. The increased pressure may result due to:

Sitting for a prolonged time
Excessive straining while passing stool
Obesity
Pregnancy
Eating foods low in fiber content
Heavy lifting
Anal intercourse

The symptoms of hemorrhoids depend on the type of hemorrhoid that the patient is suffering from.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Straining while passing stool may cause the following symptoms:

Painless bleeding
Protrusion of hemorrhoid through the anal opening causing pain and irritation

External Hemorrhoids

Itching and irritation around the anus
Swelling and inflammation around the anus
Bleeding, pain, and discomfort

Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids

Lump near the anus
Severe pain and swelling

The diagnosis of Hemorrhoids includes the following:

Physical examination
Digital examination
Visual inspection through anoscope, proctoscope, or sigmoidoscope
Colonoscopy (in severe cases of another digestive disorder)

Immediately after hemorrhoid surgery, patients commonly experience pain, which can be managed in several ways as suggested by their doctor.

To manage the pain, you may be advised to:

Use over-the-counter medications.
Take stool softeners and laxatives to prevent straining during bowel movements.
Follow a diet chart that includes more fiber and adequate liquids to minimize pain.

The severity of your pain will determine how quickly you can return to normal activities. Initially, activities such as bending, sitting, lifting objects, and squatting may be painful, so it is recommended to limit movement for at least a week after the surgery. Gradually increase your activity level as the pain decreases.

Some bleeding after the procedure is common. A small amount is not a cause for concern, but large pools of blood should be reported to your doctor. Bleeding may also occur while passing stool, particularly in the first 2 to 3 days after surgery.

Post-surgery Patients are advised to drink plenty of water and should start exercises slowly.