What to Expect at Your Hemorrhoid Banding Procedure
Posted By Author on October 5, 2021
Hemorrhoids are a major pain, but most patients find relief through home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. Warm baths and high fiber diets often help ease unpleasant symptoms – but if this is not the case, there is no need to suffer in silence! And there is no need to worry, we clarity what to expect during a hemorrhoid banding procedure.
What To Expect During A Hemorrhoid Banding Procedure
If you are still plagued by pain and discomfort, Charleston GI is here to help! Your Charleston gastroenterology specialist may suggest hemorrhoid banding, an effective, non-surgical treatment, to provide much-needed relief.
Hemorrhoid banding, also called rubber band ligation, involves tying a band around the base of the hemorrhoid. By cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid, the band causes it to shrink and vanish into a harmless scar. Keep in mind that this method is only applied to internal hemorrhoids but can shrink and prevent external hemorrhoids. Also, if you have more than one, multiple visits may be required.
Band placement is performed by a viewing instrument (anoscope) that is inserted into the anus. The procedure is virtually painless and may require numbing agents but not anesthesia. Patients may, however, experience a dull ache or feel a sensation of rectum fullness afterward. Any discomfort can typically be relieved with over-the-counter pain medicine.
Signs That You May Have Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. You may be suffering from internal or external hemorrhoids if you are experiencing these common symptoms and signs:
- Anal itching or burning
- Rectal pain or discomfort when sitting down
- Rectal bleeding or pain, especially after or during bowel movements (Note: Look for bright red blood on toilet paper or in toilet)
- One or more hard, tender lumps near anus
If you notice any of these hemorrhoid symptoms, contact your GI specialist today to schedule a digital rectal exam. When left untreated, sometimes a blood clot can form inside a hemorrhoid – and while this is not dangerous, it is often very painful!
While rectal bleeding can be a symptom of hemorrhoids, it can also indicate more serious digestive tract issues, such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or other digestive disease.
Consult a Gastroenterologist Near Me at Charleston GI Doctor Today!
Our team of board certified gastroenterologists is here to help. Offering you the treatment and relief you need, you can choose us when choosing a good gastroenterologist near me at Charleston GI. Conveniently located in Charleston, SC with 4 locations in Summerville, Carnes Crossroads, Mount Pleasant and West Ashley. At Charleston GI, we strive in ensuring a higher standard of caring is just around the corner.
Visit us or schedule an appointment with a GI specialist today – no referral needed!
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