Why Is Hemorrhoid Banding So Effective?
The majority of adults will likely develop hemorrhoids at some point during their life. Even though the exact source of hemorrhoids might not be known, factors that increase their risk are pregnancy, obesity, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and frequent straining during a bowel movement. Hemorrhoids, while highly uncomfortable, pose few serious complications and a number of effective treatment solutions are offered to help eliminate them.
If you suspect you have or are currently dealing with hemorrhoids, we invite you to get professional hemorrhoid treatment at Digestive Health Associates of Texas. Our team proudly features gastroenterologists in Dallas, TX who have advanced expertise in hemorrhoids and additional issues that affect the digestive system. The local GI doctors at Digestive Health Associates of Texas can help educate you on the variety of hemorrhoid treatment options that may be recommended, including hemorrhoid banding.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are enlarged or bulging veins on the anus or in the lower portion of the rectum. Much like varicose veins in the legs, hemorrhoids are generally painful although most often harmless. Hemorrhoids can be located internally or externally. Internal hemorrhoids, those within the rectum, often cause no pain or discomfort, though they might bleed on occasion. External hemorrhoids, which are found under the skin around the anal region, are the variant that can cause more discomfort. If a blood clot occurs in an external hemorrhoid, it is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid and may lead to even further discomfort or pain. Common indications of hemorrhoids are as follows:
- Blood in the stool
- Itching or pain in the anus
- Bleeding in the rectum
Who is a good candidate for hemorrhoid banding?
Also referred to as hemorrhoid ligation, hemorrhoid banding is a minor procedure where an elastic band is positioned around a hemorrhoid's base. This band blocks the hemorrhoid’s blood supply and over the course of a week, the hemorrhoid typically withers and falls off. Good candidates for this medical process suffer from internal hemorrhoids that consistently bleed or result in considerable discomfort. It may also be ideal for those who have been unable to reduce their pain with other methods, like over-the-counter medications or changes in lifestyle habits. Hemorrhoid banding may not be advised for adults affected by rectal cancer, an allergy to latex, bleeding disorders, or inflammatory bowel disease.
What is the hemorrhoid ligation process?
The GI specialists at Digestive Health Associates of Texas often perform hemorrhoid banding for Dallas, TX individuals. The gastrointestinal doctor places a scope into the anus and utilizes a device to secure the hemorrhoid. A tiny rubber band is then positioned around its base. The treatment is usually only performed on one hemorrhoid at a time unless general anesthesia is used. Refined methods enable this procedure to be virtually painless for the patient even in the absence of numbing agents. However, many people will still experience a sensation of fullness in the rectal area for about a day. After the hemorrhoid has been treated, it usually takes only a few days for it and the ligature to come off, which often happens while using the bathroom. In some instances, people are not even aware of when this occurs.
How effective is hemorrhoid banding?
Hemorrhoid banding is considered much more successful than several other hemorrhoid treatment options. As a nonsurgical procedure, it is less extensive than a surgical approach and only takes around ten minutes or so to complete when performed by the team at Digestive Health Associates of Texas. Nearly eight out of every ten people who undergo hemorrhoid banding will not require additional procedures. Hemorrhoids treated with rubber band ligation are significantly less likely to grow back.
Schedule a consultation for hemorrhoid banding in Dallas, TX
If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, you may feel self-conscious about getting professional care. Hemorrhoid banding is a nonsurgical and simple treatment that has provided relief to countless adults who have experienced this condition. To learn more about hemorrhoid banding and other treatment methods, reach out to Digestive Health Associates of Texas today to reserve an appointment with a Dallas, TX gastrointestinal specialist.