Hemorrhoids are swollen veins which are internal, which means they are inside the rectum and external, which means they are outside the rectum. Most hemorrhoidal stop hurting within two weeks without treatment. Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water per day can usually help manage the symptoms by promoting softer and more regular bowel movements.
Patient may also need to use stool softeners to reduce straining during bowel movements, as straining makes the hemorrhoids worse. Doctor may recommend over-the-counter topical ointments to ease occasional itching, pain, or swelling.
A hemorrhoidectomy is used for large external hemorrhoids and internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed or are causing problems and not responding to nonsurgical management.
This procedure takes place in a hospital. Surgeon will decide on the anesthesia to use during the surgery. Three types of anesthesia include:
general anesthesia, which puts you into a deep sleep throughout the surgery
regional anesthesia, which involves medication that numbs your body from the waist down being delivered by a shot into your back
local anesthesia, which numbs only your anus and rectum
Patient may also be given a sedative to help the patient relax during the procedure if patient is given local or regional anesthesia.
Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will cut out the large hemorrhoids. When the operation is over, the patient is taken to a recovery room for a brief period of observation. Once the medical team is sure that vital signs are stable, the patient will be discharged. Pain and infection are the most common risks associated with this type of surgery.
What are the risks of Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy is very common and is considered safe. However, it has some risks including:
Bleeding
Infection
Reaction to anesthesia
After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Pain is the most common complaint, especially during the bowel movement. Patient can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, after the doctor recommendation. Also soaking in a warm bath may help. Stool softeners can make it easier in bowel movement.
Quicker recovery can be achieved by:
eating a high fiber diet
staying hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water per day
using a stool softener so you won’t have to strain during bowel movements
Avoid heavy lifting or pulling activities.
Because of muscle spasm or swelling patient might have some trouble peeing afterwards.
If the anal sphincter gets damaged during surgery, patient could have accidental bowel or gas leaks, a condition called fecal incontenence.
Consult doctor In case of bleeding, difficulty in bowel movement and fever.