Hemorrhoid Treatment Options: Conservative Care to HAE
Hemorrhoids are extremely common, affecting roughly 1 in 20 Americans and almost half of all adults by age 50.1 They are swollen, inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum that can lead to a range of symptoms. Depending on their size and location, hemorrhoids can cause painless bleeding during bowel movements, itching, irritation, or a feeling of pressure around the rectum.
In some cases, hemorrhoids only appear temporarily and go away on their own or with treatment. In others, they cause symptoms that persist or repeatedly come and go over an extended period. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary considerably from person to person.
Fortunately, in many cases, hemorrhoid symptoms can be managed with conservative hemorrhoid treatment options; however, in some cases, they aren’t always enough. When this happens, additional treatments may be recommended.
Quick Answer: Hemorrhoid treatment depends on the type, severity, and persistence of symptoms. Conservative options such as increasing fiber and fluids, using topical medications, taking sitz baths, and staying active may help manage mild symptoms. For chronic internal hemorrhoids that do not improve with conservative care, additional treatments may be considered, including minimally invasive options such as Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE).
Conservative Hemorrhoid Treatment Options
Conservative treatments for hemorrhoids generally focus on making bowel movements easier and preventing the straining that can contribute to hemorrhoid development and symptoms. Some treatments include:
Increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated
Drinking more water and getting fiber in your diet through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or fiber supplements can help make stools easier to pass, reducing straining and pressure on veins in the rectal area.2
Using topical medications
Over-the-counter creams and ointments can help temporarily relieve symptoms such as itching, swelling, and discomfort.
Taking sitz baths
Warm sitz baths can help soothe irritated tissue and provide relief from itching and burning.
Staying physically active
Regular movement can help support healthy bowel habits and prevent the constipation that contributes to straining and hemorrhoid symptoms.
When conservative treatments aren’t enough, surgical interventions may be recommended for some patients, especially in cases where hemorrhoids are large, severe, or persistent; however, they aren’t your only other option.
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE): A Minimally Invasive Treatment Option
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization, or HAE, is a minimally invasive treatment option for chronic internal hemorrhoids. HAE works by using a catheter, under image guidance, to insert tiny particles or metal coils into the blood vessels that feed the hemorrhoids, reducing blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue and causing them to shrink over time. The procedure involves no general anesthesia and only requires one small incision at the site where the catheter is inserted. Patients can expect to return home the same day with minimal pain post-procedure.
University Radiology Vascular and Interventional Center offers HAE for Grade 1–3 internal hemorrhoids that aren’t responding to conservative treatments. HAE is performed by our experienced interventional radiologists, who specialize in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments. If you think HAE might be right for you, schedule a consultation with our team to learn more about your treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemorrhoid Treatment Options
What is the first-line treatment for hemorrhoids?
For many people, treatment begins with conservative measures such as increasing fiber and water intake, avoiding straining, staying active, using topical medications, and taking warm sitz baths.
What happens if conservative hemorrhoid treatments don’t work?
Persistent or severe hemorrhoids may require additional treatment. Depending on the type and severity of the hemorrhoids, options can include office-based procedures, surgery, or minimally invasive treatments such as Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization.
What is Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization?
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to internal hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink over time.
Who may be a candidate for HAE?
At University Radiology Vascular and Interventional Center, HAE may be considered for patients with Grade 1–3 internal hemorrhoids whose symptoms have not improved with conservative treatment.
References
- Wang, X., Wu, X., Wen, Q., Cui, B., & Zhang, F. (2024). Shifting Paradigms in Hemorrhoid Management: The Emergence and Impact of Cap-Assisted Endoscopic Sclerotherapy. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(23), 7284. 10.3390/jcm13237284
- Lohsiriwat, V. (2012, May 7). Hemorrhoids: From basic pathophysiology to clinical management. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 18(17), 2009–2017. 10.3748/wjg.v18.i17.2009
