Hemorrhoid Surgery Specialist

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in a person’s anus and lower rectum. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching and burning, discomfort, swelling or the appearance of lumps around the anus, and bleeding during bowel movements. The condition can be caused by straining during bowel movements, increased pressure from pregnancy or obesity, or chronic diarrhea or constipation. Hemorrhoids are common in older adults as the tissues in the rectum supporting the veins become weakened and stretched with age. Common symptoms are uncomfortable itching or burning sensations in and around the anus, blood in the stool, and difficulty in passing solid waste. Anyone who is suffering from hemorrhoids should make an appointment for treatment at Barrington Surgeons.

What Surgeries Are Used to Remove Hemorrhoids?

A hemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of a hemorrhoid. In most cases, a hemorrhoidectomy is performed with a twilight anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions with a scalpel in the tissue surrounding the hemorrhoid and the swollen vein trapped inside is tied off to prevent bleeding. Then the hemorrhoid is removed and the treated area is closed with a couple of stitches.

What Should Be Expected After Surgery?

Patients are released once the anesthesia wears off and they are able to urinate. Patients typically need someone to drive them home when they are released. The doctor will write a prescription or suggest over-the-counter medications to ease any pain or discomfort. Ice packs are also recommended to treat any swelling or discomfort. Patients should eat a bland, soft, and gentle diet including plenty of liquids for the first few days following surgery and slowly add more fibrous foods before moving back to a normal diet. If bowel movements are painful, an analgesic or local numbing medicine can be applied or the patient can take a stool softener.