What You Need to Know about Hemorrhoids and Infrared Coagulation
Bleeding while passing stool can be frightening, but it’s one of the most common signs of an internal hemorrhoid. About 1 out of every 20 Americans have symptomatic hemorrhoids, including internal hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids are swollen vascular structures that lay inside of the rectum. Untreated internal hemorrhoids can cause painless bleeding, but if they prolapse (or push through the anus), it can lead to pain and discomfort.
Regardless of whether you have external or internal hemorrhoids, our team of experienced providers at Vein Institute is here to help you get the treatment and comfort you need. Your treatment plan is determined by what type of hemorrhoid you have and how severe it is. For internal hemorrhoids, we may recommend infrared coagulation (IRC).
Here’s what you need to know about this procedure.
Understanding Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are similar to an external hemorrhoid 一 except that you might not even notice it because it’s inside of your body. A hemorrhoid is a swollen blood vessel, and in the case of an internal hemorrhoid, it’s located just inside the rectum. As the blood vessel continues to become enlarged, you might notice bleeding when you pass stool. Because bleeding can be a symptom of many different conditions, it’s important to confirm the cause of the bleeding before embarking on a treatment plan.
Once the presence of hemorrhoids is confirmed, they are also classified by grade:
Grade I refers to an internal hemorrhoid that bleeds but remains completely inside the rectum
Grade II refers to an internal hemorrhoid that prolapses but reduces (returns back) spontaneously on its own
Grade III refers to an internal hemorrhoid that has prolapses but often responds to manual reduction
Grade IV refers to an internal hemorrhoid that has prolapsed hemorrhoids and is unresponsive to manual reduction
Risk factors for developing hemorrhoids include obesity, eating a low-fiber diet, being pregnant, straining on the toilet, and lifting heavy items.
Exploring Infrared Coagulation for Hemorrhoid Treatment
Here at Vein Institute, we’re proud to offer infrared coagulation (IRC) as a treatment for internal hemorrhoids. Infrared light energy generates enough heat to coagulate the blood vessels that feed into the hemorrhoid. This causes the hemorrhoids to shrink and your symptoms to dissipate. During your procedure, the infrared light energy is delivered via a probe that emits the energy in pulses. The treatment is non-surgical, quick, and requires no downtime.
Benefits of IRC
According to a study published in the Journal of Medicine and Life, IRC is effective in shrinking internal hemorrhoids and providing relief. Researchers noted that the procedure is remarkably complication free (with minimal spotting listed as a potential side effect), effective, and painless. Not only is the procedure quick and effective, but it’s also an easy process to undergo. There is no need for anesthesia, there’s no downtime, and you can drive yourself home after your procedure.
IRC is particularly effective when paired with other lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of future hemorrhoids. This includes eating fiber-rich foods, exercising daily, and staying hydrated.
Is IRC Right for You?
Most at-home hemorrhoid treatments 一 sitz baths, witch hazel pads, topical creams, etc. 一 only work for external hemorrhoids. Including more fiber into your diet and modifying your toilet habits can go a long way to prevent hemorrhoids, but if you’re struggling with internal hemorrhoids, you might consider IRC.
We know it’s not always easy to talk about hemorrhoids, but know that compassionate and understanding hemorrhoid treatment is available at all Vein Institute offices. Call the location nearest you or simply request your appointment online.
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