Category: Hemorrhoid Treatment

Hemorrhoids typically last from a few days to several weeks. However, some internal hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins located inside the rectum, won’t heal on their own. They require medical treatment to help the hemorrhoid tissue shrink, and they can become increasingly severe if left untreated.

These persistent hemorrhoids can cause painful symptoms, including anal itching, blood in the stool, and bowel discomfort. If they become prolapsed, meaning they fall outside of the anus, they can also be intensely painful. Ongoing hemorrhoid symptoms can impact the quality of your everyday life. Additionally, the longer you have internal hemorrhoids, the greater the risk of complications, so it’s important to know when to see a doctor because of hemorrhoids. 

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Types of Hemorrhoids and Their Duration

Knowing how to recognize symptoms for different types of hemorrhoids and what to expect in terms of duration can help you determine when to see a doctor. 

How Long Do Internal Hemorrhoids Last?

Internal hemorrhoids usually sit inside the rectum and can vary in their duration. The duration depends on a few factors, such as whether the person experiences symptoms because internal hemorrhoids can be asymptomatic. When an internal hemorrhoid prolapses, patients may notice symptoms that can intensify, including anal itching, irritation, discomfort, and blood in the stool or on toilet paper. Other factors such as constipation, diarrhea, pregnancy, age, and weight can also impact the duration of the internal hemorrhoid. If the internal hemorrhoid doesn’t go away within a week or so, patients should consider getting medical treatment for their hemorrhoid.

If an internal hemorrhoid is large enough to cause symptoms, such as blood in the toilet bowl or on toilet paper after a bowel movement, anal itching, irritation, and discomfort, it may last several weeks or more. An internal hemorrhoid that prolapses or causes severe symptoms might persist until it’s treated. 

How Long Do External Hemorrhoids Last?

External hemorrhoids, which are hard, tender lumps around the anus, can often last a few days; however, they may take longer to resolve. This depends on the size of the external hemorrhoid and other factors that may prolong its time frame, such as friction from wiping. Generally, over-the-counter medications and at-home treatments can help alleviate or reduce symptoms. 

How Long Do Thrombosed Hemorrhoids Last?

A thrombosed hemorrhoid can last for two to three weeks or longer. A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when an external or internal hemorrhoid fills with one or more blood clots. They can be very painful and swollen, impacting walking, sitting, or passing a stool.

Sometimes, the blood clots diminish in a couple of weeks, but the hemorrhoid doesn’t necessarily go away. If there’s too much pressure, a thrombosed hemorrhoid can rupture. A ruptured hemorrhoid can cause intense pain and bleeding. It can also increase your risk of infection, especially if the thrombosed hemorrhoid is external.

Factors That Affect Internal Hemorrhoid Healing

An internal hemorrhoid that doesn’t heal within a week or two should be seen by a specialist. But, what factors impact how quickly an internal hemorrhoid heals?

• Severity of the hemorrhoid. If an internal hemorrhoid is very swollen and enlarged, it’s more likely to prolapse or cause more persistent symptoms that require treatment. Typically, grade-1 hemorrhoids are most likely to heal on their own. Later-stage hemorrhoids are more likely to require medical treatment.
• Lifestyle factors. Eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and being physically active can promote faster healing.
• Underlying health conditions that may prolong symptoms. Being overweight or pregnant can put pressure on the rectum, making it harder for hemorrhoids to heal. Constipation also puts pressure on the veins in the lower rectum and anus, which can cause hemorrhoids and lead to worsening symptoms and slower healing. 

If your hemorrhoids aren’t healing or if symptoms persist, it may be time to consider a more advanced solution. USA Hemorrhoid Centers offers a modern treatment for internal hemorrhoids that has fewer risks and a shorter recovery than hemorrhoid surgery. Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a good option for most cases of internal hemorrhoids that don’t go away on their own.

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HAE: A Minimally Invasive, Long-Term Solution

Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a non-surgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids. It targets the blood flow causing the hemorrhoids, helping to reduce inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms, and has been proven to provide effective, long-term relief. HAE has a 97% clinical success rate. 

The benefits of choosing HAE over traditional treatment surgical methods are that it doesn’t involve removing or cutting any tissue. The procedure isn’t painful, and there’s less risk of bleeding or an infection. HAE can be performed in an outpatient setting, and most people can return to their normal activity levels within a few days. 

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids 

If you notice internal hemorrhoid symptoms for more than a week or two, or if the hemorrhoid prolapses and becomes painful, it’s important to see a hemorrhoid doctor. You should see a doctor if you notice signs of an infection, such as intense swelling or a fever.

You can try over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments, such as a cream or suppository, to relieve the swelling and inflammation. At-home care, such as soaking in a sitz bath (a shallow bath) and ice packs, can also bring relief. Additionally, avoiding prolonged sitting for long periods, adding fiber to the diet, drinking enough water, and exercising can support healing. If there is blood in the stool, anal itching, and other internal hemorrhoid symptoms persist after a week or two despite home care methods, schedule a consultation so you can get the treatment you need for lasting relief. 

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FAQs 

How long do hemorrhoids last if untreated?

There is no set duration for how long hemorrhoids last. External hemorrhoids generally go away eventually without treatment, although they can last several weeks or longer. Internal hemorrhoids generally last longer than external hemorrhoids, but can cause chronic symptoms that may need medical treatment. 

Can hemorrhoids come back after treatment?

Yes, hemorrhoids can come back after treatment. Addressing risk factors for hemorrhoids, such as constipation, being sedentary, and eating a low-fiber diet, can help reduce the chances of hemorrhoids returning. 

Is it bad to have hemorrhoids for long periods of time?

Hemorrhoids themselves aren’t dangerous. However, having hemorrhoids for long periods increases your risk for developing more severe symptoms or complications, such as an infection or severe pain and bleeding from a thrombosed hemorrhoid that ruptures. 

Hemorrhoids and piles are simply two names for the same condition: swollen veins in the anus and rectum. Many people use these words interchangeably, and perhaps with a touch of embarrassment assuming they’re two different ailments. 

While the topic might be a little uncomfortable to discuss, it’s incredibly common. Millions of people experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Understanding hemorrhoids or piles and treatment options is the first step to finding relief and improving your quality of life. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers is an expert in non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment. If you are concerned about pain and discomfort that could be associated with hemorrhoids, consult a hemorrhoid specialist for an evaluation.

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What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum.  While these veins are a normal part of our anatomy, they become problematic when inflamed or enlarged. Think of them like varicose veins, but instead of in your legs, they’re in your lower digestive tract.

Types of Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Hemorrhoids can be divided into two categories, internal and external, but in some cases, they can also develop together, known as mixed hemorrhoids. 

Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum, often causing painless bleeding, and are graded from 1-4 based on their location and severity. Internal prolapsed hemorrhoids, which can be felt and sometimes seen externally, appear as soft lumps of tissue protruding from the anus.

External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus, typically causing pain, itching, and swelling; a thrombosed external hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms within it. 

Mixed hemorrhoids are both internal and external hemorrhoids occurring at the same time, producing a combination of symptoms.

Types of  Hemorrhoids

Difference Between Hemorrhoids and Piles

“Piles” is just another term used for hemorrhoids in different parts of the world, like the United Kingdom and India, while in the United States, the word “hemorrhoids” is more prevalent.

The confusion arises because people often use “piles” or “hemorrhoids” to describe the symptoms of enlarged or problematic hemorrhoids rather than the anatomical structures themselves.

Causes of Hemorrhoids (Piles): Why Do They Develop?

Risk Factors Leading to Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Several factors can contribute to the discomfort and inflammation of hemorrhoids (or piles).

Straining or putting pressure during bowel movements, usually a consequence of chronic constipation or diarrhea, exerts considerable force on the delicate veins lining the rectum and anus, resulting in swelling and pain.

Pregnant women are also prone to experiencing increased pressure in the rectal area, a result of hormonal fluctuations that slow digestion and the added weight of the developing uterus.

Excess weight, particularly from obesity, increases pressure on the rectal veins, exacerbating existing hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting also hinders proper blood circulation, potentially worsening pre-existing hemorrhoid issues. Additionally, aging weakens the supportive veins in the rectal area, making them more susceptible to swelling. Finally, a genetic predisposition can play a role, meaning some individuals inherit a higher risk of developing hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids (Piles) Symptoms: What to Look For

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Hemorrhoids (Piles) Prevention: Reducing Your Risk

Since hemorrhoids or piles are swollen veins near the rectum and anus, they can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. While some people are more likely to get them, many cases are linked to how you go about your everyday life. You can lower your risk by eating a good diet and having healthy bathroom habits, which helps keep blood flowing properly and reduces pressure.

To prevent hemorrhoids from developing or worsening, consider the following lifestyle suggestions:

• Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
• Drink plenty of fluids (to keep stools soft).
• Avoid straining during bowel movements.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly (to improve circulation).
• Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet.

Living with Hemorrhoids (Piles): Tips for Comfort

While hemorrhoids can be a persistent problem, there are ways to manage the discomfort and improve your quality of life. Below are some everyday tips and techniques to deal with hemorrhoid pain, improve your well-being, and easily navigate daily routines.

• Use soft, unscented toilet paper.
• Avoid prolonged sitting.
• Use a cushion for sitting if necessary.
• Practice good hygiene (gentle cleaning after bowel movements).

When to See a Doctor:

While many hemorrhoid issues in the early stages may resolve on their own with home care, it’s important to see a hemorrhoid specialist if you experience severe symptoms such as significant rectal bleeding, particularly if it’s accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness. 

Persistent pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments is another reason to consult a physician. Changes in your bowel habits, such as alterations in stool consistency or an increase in the frequency of bowel movements, should also be evaluated. Finally, the presence of blood in your stool, even if it seems minimal, requires prompt medical attention as it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

If any of the above symptoms are something you can relate to and are causing discomfort, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists at USA Hemorrhoid Centers to check for hemorrhoids.

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Hemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment: Finding Relief

Treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the grade level of hemorrhoids, location, size, and severity of the symptoms. The following methods can be tried to alleviate painful symptoms and become pain-free:

• Lifestyle changes: Simple adjustments such as increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding activities that involve straining, such as heavy lifting or prolonged toilet sitting, can be beneficial.
• Over-the-counter medications: Creams, pain relievers, ointments, and suppositories can temporarily relieve symptoms.
• Sitz baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water can soothe swollen tissue.
• Medical procedures: Options include hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE), sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, or surgery in more severe cases.

Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE)

What is HAE?

Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive approach to treating hemorrhoids by reducing their blood supply. This reduction in blood flow causes the hemorrhoids to shrink, providing significant relief from symptoms like pain and bleeding.

The HAE Procedure: How It Works

• Access and Imaging: A catheter is inserted into the wrist or groin to access the blood vessels after numbing. Real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) is used to guide the procedure.
• Locating the Target: The interventional radiologist carefully locates the arteries feeding blood to the hemorrhoids.
• Blocking Blood Flow: Tiny particles or coils are inserted into these arteries, effectively blocking the blood supply and causing the hemorrhoids to shrink.

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Why Choose Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization?

With its multiple benefits, hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) offers a compelling alternative to traditional hemorrhoid treatments. Being minimally invasive, HAE requires no large incisions, resulting in less scarring and a quicker recovery. 

The procedure is typically performed at an outpatient clinic, allowing most patients to return home the same day. Compared to more invasive methods like surgery or banding, HAE is less painful. Recovery is also swift, with many individuals able to resume their normal routines within just a few days. 

HAE proves particularly effective for complex cases, offering a viable solution for those experiencing persistent bleeding or dealing with large hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to other treatment options.

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USA Hemorrhoid Centers: Expert Care for Hemorrhoids

For patients seeking a less invasive way to deal with persistent internal hemorrhoids,  hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) offers a promising alternative. Interventional radiologists at USA Hemorrhoid Centers use this leading-edge technique to provide significant pain relief, particularly to those suffering from chronic or severe hemorrhoid symptoms who want to avoid surgery. If other treatments have been ineffective, consulting with an interventional radiologist about HAE might be the first step to long-term comfort and a better quality of life. 

Interested in learning more about HAE or scheduling a consultation? Contact USA Hemorrhoid Centers at 855-805-4247 or visit www.usahemorrhoidcenters.com  to explore your options and find a location near you.

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Hemorrhoids are a common occurrence in adults—almost half of them experience hemorrhoids at least once in their lifetime. Hemorrhoids are a group of veins, muscles, and connective tissues near the anus that become inflamed and swollen. They can form either around the anus (external) or inside the rectum (internal).  

Patients with hemorrhoids may experience symptoms such as itching, bleeding, and pain or discomfort near the anus. Many over-the-counter medications can ease symptoms, and these symptoms may resolve on their own. However, some symptoms may persist, indicating a more serious issue that needs medical attention. 

 This blog explains hemorrhoids and when to seek medical attention. For minimally invasive, long-lasting relief, consider USA Hemorrhoid Centers. We offer minimally invasive treatment that can provide long-lasting relief.  

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Symptoms of Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoids can cause various symptoms that can impact a person’s well-being. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include: 

• Pain and discomfort while sitting down on a hard surface, pooping, or wiping. 
• Itching and irritation in the affected area, which can be made worse by excess moisture, mucus membranes from the hemorrhoids, and friction from wiping. 
• Swelling of the veins in the anus. Internal hemorrhoid swelling may feel as if something is pushing against the sphincter (opening of the anus).  
• Bleeding that occurs after straining while pooping. You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper after wiping. 
• Lumps outside the anus, which indicate external hemorrhoids. 

Some hemorrhoids can secrete mucus when they are inflamed. In severe cases, a small amount of stool may leak out if the hemorrhoids prevent the anus from fully closing. Depending on how big the hemorrhoid is, you may also feel fullness even after a bowel movement.  

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Mild Hemorrhoid Symptoms  

Some patients may only have mild symptoms of hemorrhoids that resolve on their own within a week. Hemorrhoids like these are usually no cause for concern and can be treated with the following at-home remedies: 

• Eating more fiber 
• Drinking plenty of water 
• Using topical creams or ointments such as witch hazel or phenylephrine (Preparation H) 
• Sitting in warm water (sitz bath) 

If natural remedies don’t work, it may be time to schedule a consultation. 

Serious Hemorrhoid Symptoms 

You may need help from a medical professional if you are experiencing signs of severe hemorrhoids. These signs include: 

• Persistent or heavy bleeding
• Worsening pain and swelling
• Internal hemorrhoid bulges outside the anus (prolapsed hemorrhoid)
• Symptoms last longer than a couple of weeks despite using at-home remedies

In these cases, you may benefit from seeing a hemorrhoid specialist. USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ interventional radiologists are experienced in treating hemorrhoids and can help you find relief that hasn’t been achieved by at-home treatments. 

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Untreated Hemorrhoids: Potential Complications 

When hemorrhoids are left untreated, they can lead to the following complications: 

Prolapsed Hemorrhoid

A prolapsed hemorrhoid happens when an internal hemorrhoid starts bulging out of the anus. They can feel like soft lumps of tissue, but they can be painful. If prolapsed hemorrhoids aren’t treated, they can become permanent and cause further discomfort. 

Thrombosed Hemorrhoid

A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot forms in the hemorrhoid, causing severe pain and swelling. This works similarly to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Unlike DVT, a thrombosed hemorrhoid can eventually burst, leading to intense bleeding, nausea, dizziness, and abdominal pain.  

Anemia

The longer hemorrhoids bleed, the higher your chance is of developing anemia. Anemia is when you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen from the heart to the rest of your body. This can lead to feelings of weakness and fatigue. 

Anal fissures

Hemorrhoids don’t directly cause anal fissures, but the irritation from friction can eventually lead to tears inside the linings of the anus.  

Infection

Hemorrhoids increase a person’s risk of infection due to bleeding.  

Early detection and treatment of hemorrhoids that don’t resolve on their own can reduce your risk of complications.

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoid symptoms may overlap with other health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer. You should consider seeing a doctor if you also experience: 

• Dark red blood in your stool 
• Stool has a tar-like consistency 
• Frequent diarrhea or constipation 
• Unexplained abdominal pain or bloating 
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue 

Additionally, if you are experiencing symptoms of an infection such as nausea, chills, fever, or an increased heart rate, you should head to an urgent care for proper treatment.  

Diagnosing and Treating Hemorrhoids 

External hemorrhoids are typically easy to diagnose and treat on your own. However, internal hemorrhoids that don’t resolve on their own may need a diagnosis and treatment from a hemorrhoid specialist, such as a colorectal surgeon, gastroenterologist, or interventional radiologist. Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed using the following methods: 

• Digital rectal exam: The specialist uses gloves and lubricant to insert a finger inside the rectum and check for hemorrhoids.  
• Anoscopy: The specialist uses an anoscope—a hollow, lighted tube—to examine the anal canal and rectum, which can be more effective than a digital rectal exam. 
• Proctoscopy: This procedure can help identify hemorrhoids that are further up the rectum.  
• Colonoscopy: This involves a longer, flexible tube with a camera to examine the rectum and colon.  

USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ team of interventional radiologists offer a minimally invasive treatment known as hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE). Rather than removing hemorrhoids through surgery, staples, or rubber bands, HAE involves tiny particles through a catheter that block blood flow to the hemorrhoid.  

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The Benefits of HAE Minimally Invasive Treatment for Hemorrhoids 

HAE can be beneficial to patients in a few ways. It’s less painful than other procedures for hemorrhoids such as rubber band ligation, stapled hemorrhoidopexy (using staples to cut off blood flow), or hemorrhoidectomy (surgically removing hemorrhoids). Additionally, HAE can treat higher grade hemorrhoids than other procedures such as infrared coagulation, which involves infrared light to break down hemorrhoidal tissues. 

HAE also comes with fewer risks than other procedures. The Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology published a study in 2023 evaluating the safety of HAE. The study concluded HAE has a success rate of 93 percent, without adverse side effects. Patients who chose rubber band ligation as a treatment experienced significant pain one week after treatment. Hemorrhoidectomy comes with a higher risk of infection, bleeding, and longer recovery times. 

A benefit of HAE treatment is that patients go home shortly after the procedure and quickly resume most activities. There is significant symptom improvement within a week, and the risk of further hemorrhoid complications is greatly decreased. 

Contact USA Hemorrhoid Centers for Hemorrhoid Treatment 

Don’t let hemorrhoids make bathroom breaks miserable. The experts at USA Hemorrhoid Centers, a national network of AAAHC-accredited radiologists can help you find lasting relief from internal hemorrhoid pain. Call 855.805.4247 or schedule an appointment online. Our Care Team will verify your insurance coverage. 

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