When Is Hemorrhoid Banding Necessary?

A multitude of individuals will most likely be diagnosed with hemorrhoids at some time throughout their lives. Although the exact source of hemorrhoids may not be clear, factors associated with the condition include being pregnant, being overweight, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and recurrent straining during bowel movements. While they may be uncomfortable, hemorrhoids carry few serious complications and effective medical options are offered to address them.

Should you suspect or know for certain you have hemorrhoids, we invite you to learn more about hemorrhoid care at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates. Our local gastrointestinal (GI) doctors in San Antonio, TX specialize in treating hemorrhoids and other issues that affect the digestive system. At San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates, we can help educate you on the various hemorrhoid treatments available, including hemorrhoid banding.

Facts about hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen or bulging blood vessels on the anus or in the rectum. Much like varicose veins present in the legs, hemorrhoids are commonly painful though generally harmless. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids, which are found within the rectum, often result in no pain or discomfort; however, they might bleed on occasion. External hemorrhoids, which are positioned under the surface of the tissue around the anus, can cause the greatest amount of pain or discomfort. In the event that a blood clot occurs in an external hemorrhoid, it is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Thrombosed hemorrhoids could be even more uncomfortable or painful. The symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Pain or itch in the anal area

• Blood in the stool

• Bleeding in the rectum

What is hemorrhoid banding?

Often known as rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid banding is a simple process where a tiny elastic band is positioned around the hemorrhoid's base. The tiny band blocks the hemorrhoid’s blood supply and over the course of a week, the hemorrhoid typically shrinks and falls off. Candidates for this procedure have internal hemorrhoids that bleed or cause significant discomfort and have not been able to soothe their discomfort with other solutions, like lifestyle changes or nonprescription medication. Hemorrhoid banding might not be advised for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, rectal cancer, a latex allergy, or bleeding disorders.

What is the hemorrhoid banding process?

The experienced doctors at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates often conduct rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids for San Antonio, TX adults. The GI doctor inserts an anoscope into the anus and uses an instrument to secure the hemorrhoid. A small rubber band is then placed, encircling the base of the hemorrhoid. This treatment is usually only conducted for one hemorrhoid at a time except in instances where the patient is under general anesthesia. Innovative expertise enables this treatment option to be virtually painless for the individual even in the absence of an anesthetic. However, the majority of people will have a sensation of fullness in the rectum for the first 24 hours after the procedure. After the hemorrhoid is treated, it generally takes only a few days for it and the ligature to detach, often during a routine trip to the bathroom. Many individuals do not even realize when this takes place.

How successful is hemorrhoid banding treatment?

Hemorrhoid banding is regarded to be more successful than a number of other hemorrhoid procedures. As a nonsurgical option, it is considerably less extensive compared to a surgical approach and takes about ten minutes or so to complete when conducted at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates. Around 80% of patients who undergo hemorrhoid banding will need no further care. Hemorrhoids removed with rubber band ligation are a lot less likely to redevelop.

Schedule a consultation for hemorrhoid banding in San Antonio, TX

If you suspect you might have or currently struggle with hemorrhoids, you may feel uncomfortable getting medical help. Hemorrhoid banding is a simple, minimally invasive service that has provided improvement to numerous adults throughout San Antonio, TX. To hear more about hemorrhoid banding and other options for treating hemorrhoids, contact San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates today to set up a visit with a GI specialist.