4 Signs It's Time for a Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal and anal areas that are common and often painful. While you can manage many cases with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes, some situations call for more drastic measures, such as a hemorrhoidectomy.
If you have hemorrhoids, our expert bariatric and general surgeon, Dr. Aliu O. Sanni can advise on the best solution for you. He may recommend a hemorrhoidectomy, which is one of the many common procedures he performs. This surgical procedure removes severe or persistent hemorrhoids.
When you book an appointment at Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery in Snellville, Georgia, Dr. Sanni learns about your previous treatments, evaluates your symptoms, and discusses how a hemorrhoidectomy can offer relief if other treatments have failed.
Here are four signs that it might be time to consider a hemorrhoidectomy:
Persistent pain and discomfort
One of the clearest indicators that a hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary is chronic pain and discomfort. Hemorrhoids can cause intense discomfort, especially during bowel movements or when you sit for extended periods.
If you find that conservative treatments like creams, warm baths, and dietary changes fail to alleviate your pain, it may be time to consult with Dr. Sanni about surgical options.
Not only can hemorrhoids be physically taxing, but they can significantly affect your quality of life, making a hemorrhoidectomy a viable solution.
Recurring bleeding
Bleeding is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, but don’t ignore it if it becomes frequent or severe. Occasional blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl isn’t usually alarming, but recurrent bleeding can indicate a more serious problem.
It can lead to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness due to the constant loss of blood.
If you experience persistent bleeding despite trying various treatments, a hemorrhoidectomy might be necessary to address the root of the problem and prevent further complications.
Prolapsed hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are classified into four grades, with grades III and IV being prolapsed, meaning they protrude from the anal canal and may not retract on their own.
Grade III
With Grade III hemorrhoids, we may be able to push them back inside, but they’re prone to protruding again, causing ongoing discomfort and hygiene issues.
Grade IV
Grade IV hemorrhoids remain outside, and we cannot push them back, often leading to severe pain, itching, and infection risk.
When hemorrhoids reach these stages, Dr. Sanni may recommend a hemorrhoidectomy to remove the prolapsed tissue and provide relief.
Ineffectiveness of other treatments
Numerous nonsurgical treatments are available for hemorrhoids, including:
- Over-the-counter creams
- Prescription medications
- Lifestyle modifications
- Minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy
If you’ve tried these methods and still suffer from severe symptoms, it may be time to consider a hemorrhoidectomy.
We generally consider this surgical option when other treatments fail to provide adequate relief or when hemorrhoids significantly interfere with daily activities.
If your hemorrhoids are uncomfortable or debilitating, seek Dr. Sanni’s advice. He can help determine if it’s time to consider a hemorrhoidectomy.
If you identify with any of these signs and you’re ready to take steps to find the right solution, you can rely on Dr. Sanni’s expertise and care. Call our office at 201-565-0876, or click here to book online now.