Hemorrhoids are one of the common ailments that can affect anyone, yet how many people are willing to seek medical advice and treatment without feeling embarrassed? This sense of shame often creates a barrier between doctors and patients, leading many to neglect their hemorrhoid symptoms until they become severe. In some cases, this neglect results in the need for surgery, which carries risks of pain and lengthy recovery. However, today, surgical treatment for hemorrhoids is less intimidating than in the past, thanks to advancements such as laser surgery.
Common Misunderstandings About Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels around the anus become swollen. This often results from straining during bowel movements or from conditions that impede normal blood flow. Many believe that constipation is the sole cause of hemorrhoids, but in reality, diarrhea and prolonged sitting on the toilet—such as playing on mobile devices or reading—can also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Diarrhea leads to more frequent straining during bowe
l movements, while long periods of sitting can unknowingly cause additional strain. Therefore, maintaining regular bowel habits, avoiding constipation and diarrhea, and refraining from using mobile devices or reading while on the toilet are essential practices to help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
Warning Signs of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can be categorized into two types: internal and external, each requiring different treatment approaches. For internal hemorrhoids in stages 1-2, treatment may involve medications and rubber band ligation, while stages 3-4 usually require surgical intervention. External hemorrhoids can also be treated with medication, with surgery indicated only in cases of severe inflammation, swelling, or significant bleeding. Important warning signs that may indicate the risk of hemorrhoids include:
- Discomfort or itching around the anus
- Fresh blood during bowel movements, particularly associated with straining
- Lumps or protrusions around the anus, characteristic of external hemorrhoids
- Pain in the anal area when standing, walking, or sitting, due to inflammation
- Laser Surgery: A New Safe and Effective Option
Laser surgery for hemorrhoids involves using heat from laser waves to reduce swollen blood vessel walls, effectively flattening them. This method is generally applied to patients with internal hemorrhoids in stages 2-4, especially when other treatments, such as medication, have failed or when the condition is too severe for rubber band ligation.
Laser surgery is less commonly performed on external hemorrhoids due to the sensitivity of the external skin, which can lead to significant pain. The advantages of laser surgery over traditional methods include less discomfort, shorter recovery time in the hospital, and a lower risk of complications such as anal strictures or incontinence. The steps involved in laser surgery include:
- A thorough assessment to determine if the patient is suitable for laser treatment.
- Administration of sedative medication to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- The laser procedure itself, which takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the number of hemorrhoids. Each hemorrhoid requires several applications of heat lasting a few minutes. Post-surgery, patients may experience swelling and pain, which can be alleviated by sitting in warm water after bowel movements. If pain is minimal, this step may not be necessary.
- Patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery before returning home, resuming normal activities, and eating a regular diet, while avoiding foods that could trigger diarrhea, which may slow recovery.
- Doctors usually schedule a follow-up appointment 1-2 weeks after surgery. If no complications arise, patients can expect to recover fully without the need for additional follow-ups.
Hemorrhoids are more prevalent than many realize, and anyone can develop them if they do not maintain a healthy diet or proper bathroom habits. Even after treatment, whether through medication or laser surgery, there is still a risk of recurrence if constipation or diarrhea continues. Understanding the causes of hemorrhoids and adopting hygienic bowel habits is crucial. Additionally, being vigilant for abnormal symptoms—such as difficulty during bowel movements and blood in the stool—should prompt immediate medical consultation. This proactive approach can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially avoiding the need for surgical intervention and associated costs.
Dr. Narasara Vittayapipat
Specialist in Minimally Invasive Surgery
High Technology Surgical Center
Phyathai 3 Hospital
