Hemorrhoids are a common ailment that involves swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum. Infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids is a popular method of treatment by doctors because it is quick and effective. It involves the use of a device that gives a burst of infrared light to the effected area. The heat produced by the burst of infrared light will cause scar tissue to form on the wall of the anal canal, cutting off blood flow to the hemorrhoid. The procedure causes little pain, the patient typically feels a brief sensation of heat and movement.
There are a number of reasons why people get hemorrhoids. Excessive straining during a bowel movement and pregnancy are the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be internal and develop inside the anus or can be external and develop outside the anus. Symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching or pain around the anus, a swollen lump near the anus, blood in the stool and fecal leakage.
The process of administering infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids can be done on only one hemorrhoid at a time. If a patient suffers from more than one hemorrhoid, treatments can be given in 10- to 14-day intervals. Infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids can result in slight blood spotting after treatment.
Heavy lifting and straining after treatment should be avoided for a few days. If pain is experienced, a physician will advice the patient of proper pain management. Aspirin should be avoided for a few days after infrared coagulation therapy is performed.
Infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids can be an expensive procedure, especially for patients who suffer from more than one hemorrhoid. The recurrence of hemorrhoids after treatment with infrared coagulation is minimal, particularly if the patient practices healthy bowel habits and proper diet. High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can be added to a diet. Foods rich in fiber will help soften and add bulk to the stool, preventing straining during a bowel movement.
Drinking plenty of water per day will also aid in keeping stools soft. Long periods of sitting or standing can put additional pressure on the rectal veins. Daily physical activity should be practiced to help reduce pressure. If a patient is overweight, pressure on the veins from excess weight can cause hemorrhoids to return. For patients who are overweight, daily exercise should practiced as a preventative measure for recurrence.