Are you struggling with chronic hemorrhoids? Rest assured, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that half of all Americans over 50 will experience symptoms of hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. For those suffering from severe, chronic hemorrhoids, finding a long-term treatment for chronic hemorrhoids that goes beyond temporary relief is essential. While topical creams, warm baths, and high-fiber diets can be effective in managing symptoms, they may be unable to address the root cause of the issue in more severe cases, causing symptoms to persist or recur. So what are the options available to people seeking long-term treatment for chronic hemorrhoids?
Traditionally, surgery was necessary to effectively remove chronic hemorrhoids, especially in severe cases where less invasive treatments failed to provide lasting relief. Procedures like hemorrhoidectomy, which involves excising the swollen tissue, and stapled hemorrhoidopexy, which repositions and restricts blood flow to hemorrhoids, have long been the primary treatments for particularly advanced cases. While generally effective, these surgeries have some notable drawbacks, including significant postoperative pain, long recovery times, and an increased risk of complications like infection and bleeding. Due to these drawbacks, many patients are now exploring newer, less invasive options, which aim to provide similar outcomes with fewer downsides.
Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive, but still effective alternative to surgical removal. The HAE procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist, who threads a small catheter through your thigh to the rectal artery to selectively block the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. By reducing blood flow, the hemorrhoid gradually shrinks and symptoms subside. The success rate for HAE is over 90%. There’s no cutting or sutures, and patients typically experience less pain and minimal downtime compared with traditional surgery.
While HAE may not be suitable for everyone, it’s a valuable option for individuals with chronic hemorrhoids seeking long-term relief without the risks of conventional surgery.
How do I know if long-term treatment for chronic hemorrhoids with HAE is right for me?
Determining whether Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE) is the right treatment for you depends on several factors, including the type, severity, and persistence of your hemorrhoid symptoms. HAE is most effective for patients with grade 1 to 3 internal hemorrhoids that cause chronic bleeding, discomfort, or prolapse, especially when conservative treatments like dietary changes and topical medications have failed.
A consultation with a colorectal specialist or interventional radiologist is also an important step. They can evaluate your medical history, perform necessary imaging or examinations, and determine whether you’re a good candidate for long-term treatment for chronic hemorrhoids with HAE. While not suitable for everyone, particularly those with primarily external hemorrhoids or certain vascular conditions, HAE is a worthwhile, less invasive method of achieving long-lasting relief.
NG Vascular and Vein offers HAE treatment for chronic hemorrhoids. If you think HAE is right for you, give us a call at our Munster, Indiana, and Merrillville, Indiana, locations at 219-208-6218 or our Palos Heights, Illinois, and Homewood, Illinois locations at 708-888-1167 to learn more or schedule a consultation.
