Hemorrhoid Treatment

Rectal bleeding, itching, burning, moisture, or a lump near the anus are the most common symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common proctological conditions and may cause both mild discomfort and significant impairment of quality of life.

The good news is that in many cases hemorrhoids can be effectively treated — often without traditional surgery. However, accurate diagnosis and selecting the appropriate treatment method based on the severity of the disease are essential.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids

Symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease may vary in severity — from mild discomfort to significant symptoms interfering with daily functioning.

• rectal bleeding, most commonly bright red blood,
• itching and burning around the anus,
• a feeling of moisture or staining of underwear,
• a lump near the anus,
• discomfort while sitting,
• a feeling of incomplete bowel movements,
• prolapse of hemorrhoids during bowel movements.

See also: rectal bleeding — when is it a cause for concern? and lump near the anus — possible causes.

Is it definitely hemorrhoids?

Not every case of bleeding, itching, or a lump near the anus means hemorrhoids. Similar symptoms may also occur in other proctological conditions.

• anal fissure,
• hemorrhoidal thrombosis / thrombosed external hemorrhoid,
• perianal abscess,
• anal fistula,
• inflammatory or cancerous lesions.

More information: is it definitely hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoid diagnostics — why is it so important?

Proper treatment is based on a thorough proctological examination. Medical history and digital rectal examination alone are often insufficient to evaluate the anal canal.

For this reason, in many cases anoscopy is performed — an examination that allows visualization of the anal canal and lower rectum.

What does hemorrhoid treatment look like?

The treatment method depends on the stage of hemorrhoidal disease, the type of symptoms, and the findings of the proctological examination.

Conservative treatment

In the early stages of the disease, treatment without procedures is often possible. The goal of therapy is to reduce symptoms and eliminate factors that worsen the condition.

• ointments and suppositories,
• regulation of bowel movements,
• increasing fiber and fluid intake,
• avoiding excessive straining,
• changing daily habits.

More information: why does treatment often begin with conservative methods?

Procedural treatment

If symptoms are more severe, recurrent, or conservative treatment does not improve the condition, the physician may recommend procedural treatment.

• hemorrhoid banding (Barron method),
• laser hemorrhoid treatment,
• other procedural methods selected individually.

Many procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and do not require hospitalization.

When may a procedure become necessary?

Not every patient with hemorrhoids requires a procedure, but in some cases procedural treatment may more effectively control symptoms and reduce recurrences.

• recurrent bleeding,
• larger hemorrhoids prolapsing externally,
• lack of improvement after conservative treatment,
• frequent recurrence of symptoms,
• significant impact of the disease on daily functioning.

The decision regarding procedural treatment is always made individually after a proctological examination.

Can hemorrhoids disappear on their own?

In early stages, symptoms may improve after lifestyle changes, dietary improvement, and conservative treatment.

In more advanced stages, symptoms are often recurrent and may require procedural treatment.

Most common patient mistakes

• delaying a medical consultation despite symptoms,
• treating the condition only with ointments without diagnostics,
• ignoring dietary and bowel movement recommendations,
• stopping treatment after temporary improvement,
• underestimating rectal bleeding.

More information: why do proctological diseases recur?

Can hemorrhoids rupture?

Yes — bleeding may occur, especially in cases of significant inflammation or irritation of the hemorrhoids.

Sudden rectal bleeding always requires medical evaluation, especially if symptoms occur for the first time.

More information: what should you do if a hemorrhoid ruptures?

Who treats hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are treated by a proctologist — most often a surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the anus and rectum.

Proctology consultations at Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej are provided by physicians specializing in proctological diseases and procedural treatment.

• Dr. Kamil Smok
• Dr. Sara Godyńska
• Dr. Justyna Szul
• Dr. Piotr Rak