Hemorrhoid Banding in Dallas, TX
What is hemorrhoid banding?
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are swollen veins that occur in the lower anus or rectum. A hemorrhoid can occur inside the rectum (internally) or outside on the anus (externally). It most often develops in the case that the vein walls in the rectum or anus come to be so thin that the veins bulge or stand out. In some cases, a blood clot may grow inside the hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid) and might cause pain.
If a hemorrhoid begins to become extremely painful or is responsible for other health concerns, then it may require removal. A procedure frequently employed to remove internal hemorrhoids is hemorrhoid banding, also called rubber band ligation. If you are looking for information regarding hemorrhoid banding in Dallas, TX our specialists can help. At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, our physician-led team of gastrointestinal physicians regularly treat hemorrhoids with hemorrhoid banding procedures. Contact our team to find a GI specialist in your area.
What are the benefits of hemorrhoid banding?
If you have ever had hemorrhoids, you are more than likely aware of the symptoms that go along with them, such as pain, itching, and bloody bowel movements. Hemorrhoid banding at Digestive Health Associates of Texas can be an effective nonsurgical treatment option for a variety of reasons. Some of the benefits of hemorrhoid banding involve:
- Longer-lasting than alternative methods: While at-home solutions, including topical creams, medicated pads, or baths, might treat small hemorrhoids, they typically only address symptoms and not the root cause. Hemorrhoid banding offers a longer-term solution.
- Nonsurgical process: Since this is a nonsurgical treatment, you should not have to worry about any potential surgical difficulties or a long recovery. It is a safe process that allows you to return to your daily life relatively quickly.
- Virtually painless: Though you may experience slight pain during your hemorrhoid banding procedure, it should not be uncomfortable as the hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off.
In what way is hemorrhoid banding performed?
Hemorrhoid banding is a technique by which the flow of blood to a hemorrhoid is discontinued by securing a rubber band at its base. Over time, the hemorrhoid will shrink and go away. A scar will form where the hemorrhoid was, which will prevent surrounding veins from swelling or growing into more hemorrhoids nearby.
Hemorrhoid banding is accomplished by placing an anoscope into the anus. The specialist then obtains a hold on the hemorrhoid and uses an instrument to position a band around the hemorrhoids’s base. Hemorrhoid banding is traditionally performed to treat just one or two hemorrhoids at a time, except in cases where the person being treated is given anesthesia.
What happens after a hemorrhoid banding procedure?
Depending on the individual, the recovery and situation after hemorrhoid banding could differ. A portion of people are well enough to resume normal activities almost immediately following the procedure, still others require a few days of bed rest in order to recover. Pain is common for as long as 48 hours after hemorrhoid banding and bleeding can happen for as long as 10 days following the procedure.
Our Digestive Health Associates of Texas GI team will give you detailed recovery instructions to follow once the hemorrhoid banding procedure is complete. To minimize the possibility of bleeding, it is of the utmost importance to be sure not to take aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for four days before or after the procedure. To reduce pressure in the rectum, it is encouraged that patients drink a great deal of fluids and eat a diet high in fiber to assist in ensuring easy bowel movements.
Hemorrhoid Banding FAQs
How can I prepare for hemorrhoid banding?
Generally, there is nothing you need to do to prepare for hemorrhoid banding. Your GI doctor will ask about the medications and supplements you take daily, so you should carry a list with you. Following the procedure, you may want to have a friend or family member help with daily tasks to avoid straining your body as you recover. It is also imperative to closely follow pre- and post-op orders given to you by our Digestive Health Associates of Texas team.
Is hemorrhoid banding a safe process?
As with many procedures, there is some risk involved with hemorrhoid banding, including recurring hemorrhoids, bleeding, and infection. Our doctors strive to reduce any risks associated with GI treatments. We will take steps to help set you up for a successful recovery and beyond.
Will I be able to work after a hemorrhoid banding procedure?
In most cases, you can return to work after hemorrhoid banding. Our gastroenterologists suggest that you do not perform strenuous activity in the hours following your hemorrhoid banding. Patients with a desk job can usually return to work after the treatment.
Is hemorrhoid banding an uncomfortable procedure?
At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, one of our main goals is to ensure you are as relaxed as possible, no matter the reason for your visit. Your GI doctor may use a local anesthetic to minimize pain; however, you might experience slight discomfort during and after the procedure.
