Hemorrhoids, commonly called piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus that cause discomfort, itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding. Many Australians wonder how to cure hemorrhoids effectively and what treatment options are available locally. The good news is that most hemorrhoids can be managed successfully with a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and minimally invasive procedures. There are also surgical alternatives for more serious situations.
Home Care and Lifestyle Changes: The First Step to Healing
For mild hemorrhoids, simple self-care measures often bring relief and can promote healing:
- Increase Fibre Intake: Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fibre supplements like Metamucil or Fybogel helps soften stools and reduces straining during bowel movements.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports regular bowel movements and prevents constipation.
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Long-term sitting, particularly on the toilet, puts more strain on hemorrhoidal veins.
- Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day soothes pain and reduces swelling.
- Use Over-the-Counter Creams and Suppositories: Products containing ingredients like zinc oxide, witch hazel, or mild steroids can ease itching and inflammation temporarily.
These measures, recommended by Australian health services such as Healthdirect and myDr, form the foundation of hemorrhoid treatment.
Medical Treatments Available in Australia
If symptoms persist or worsen, medical interventions may be necessary. Common treatments include:
- Rubber Band Ligation: A minimally invasive outpatient procedure where a small rubber band is placed around the base of an internal hemorrhoid, cutting off blood supply and causing it to shrink and fall off within days. This is effective for grade 1 to 3 hemorrhoids and widely used in Australian clinics.
- Sclerotherapy (Injection): To lessen pain, halt bleeding, and cause the hemorrhoid to shrink, a chemical solution is injected into the area. Patients on blood thinners or those who are unable to get their bands put on will find this especially helpful.
- Infrared Coagulation: This technique uses heat to shrink hemorrhoids and is suitable for smaller hemorrhoids.
- Topical Medications: Prescription-strength creams or ointments with steroids or anesthetics may be prescribed for short-term symptom relief.
Surgical Options for Severe Hemorrhoids
For large, painful, or persistent hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be recommended by colorectal specialists in Australia. Surgical procedures include:
- Haemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoidal tissue is the most definitive treatment. It is usually performed under general anaesthesia and has a high cure rate, though recovery can take several weeks.
- Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy: This procedure repositions prolapsed hemorrhoids and cuts off their blood supply using a circular stapler. It generally causes less pain and allows faster recovery but may have a higher chance of recurrence.
- Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HAL) / Recto Anal Repair (RAR): A Doppler-guided procedure that ties off arteries supplying hemorrhoids and lifts prolapsed tissue, resulting in less pain and quicker healing.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience significant bleeding, severe pain, prolapsed hemorrhoids that do not retract, or symptoms lasting more than two weeks despite home care, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early assessment ensures appropriate treatment and rules out other serious conditions.
Summary
In Australia, treating hemorrhoids is a gradual process that begins with lifestyle modifications and natural therapies, moves on to medical treatments if necessary, and ends with surgery in more severe cases. Many Australians find effective relief without major surgery because to advancements in minimally invasive treatments. To find the best treatment strategy for your symptoms, always consult a colorectal expert or your general practitioner.