Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

The symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the hemorrhoid, but common signs include:

• Protrusion: Internal hemorrhoids can sometimes protrude out of the anus, especially after straining during bowel movements.
• Rectal Bleeding: Bright red blood after a bowel movement is a hallmark sign of hemorrhoids.
• Itching or Irritation: A patient with hemorrhoids may have itching in the anal area.
• Discomfort or Pain: Hemorroids are painless in most of the cases. Patient will have pain only when there is bleeding from dilated veins of external hemorrhoids, which is also called thrombosed hemorrhoids. This is a painful condition and tender to the touch requiring immediate treatment.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Several factors contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:

• Chronic Constipation: Straining during bowel movements puts excessive pressure on the rectal veins.
• Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on the toilet, can increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
• Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the pelvic veins during pregnancy can lead to hemorrhoids.
• Obesity: Excess body weight can place additional strain on the veins in the rectal area.
• Low-Fiber Diet: A diet lacking in fiber can lead to constipation, which exacerbates hemorrhoids.
• Heavy weight lifting: Regular heavy weight lifting also increases pressure in and anal veins and leads to hemorrhoids.

Grading of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are classified into four grades, based on their severity:

• Grade 1: Mild internal hemorrhoids that may bleed but do not protrude from the anus. These are often not visible and may only cause mild discomfort or itching.
• Grade 2: Hemorrhoids that may protrude (bulge out) from anus during bowel movements but return inside on their own afterward. Bleeding and mild discomfort may occur.
• Grade 3: Hemorrhoids that protrude from anus during bowel movements and need to be pushed back inside manually. These are often painful and may cause significant discomfort.
• Grade 4: Hemorrhoids that are permanently prolapsed (stuck outside the anus) and cannot be pushed back inside. They can be very painful.

Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids in Nepal

Laser treatments have revolutionized hemorrhoid care in Nepal. It's a modern, minimally invasive option that offers faster recovery times and less discomfort compared to traditional open surgical procedures.

Benefits of Laser Hemorrhoid Surgery

• Minimally Invasive: Laser treatments involve no incisions or very small incisions, which means less pain after laser hemorrhoid surgery.
• Faster Recovery: This procedure is performed on day care basis, that means patient dischaged on same day. Patients can often return to normal activities much more quickly.
• Reduced Bleeding: The laser seals blood vessels, significantly reducing bleeding during and after the procedure.
• Precision: Laser technology allows for precise targeting of the hemorrhoidal tissue, preserving surrounding healthy tissue and sphincter muscles which prevent from developing complication like loss of control of stool.
• Fewer Complications: There is a reduced risk of infection and complications compared to conventional surgery.

How Laser Treatment for Hemorrhoids Works

The laser procedure is a quick and effective solution for treating hemorrhoids. Here's how the process typically works:

• Consultation and Diagnosis: A doctor will examine the hemorrhoids and determine the grade to decide if laser treatment is the right option.
• Few tests are done to look for your fitness for procedure.
• Preparation: Anesthesia (spinal or mild sedation) is given by anesthesia doctor and team and laser treatment is performed by Surgeon and team.
• Laser Application: The laser is precisely directed at the hemorrhoidal tissue, shrinking or vaporizing the swollen veins. The laser also seals the blood vessels, reducing bleeding during the procedure.
• No Incisions: Unlike traditional surgery, no incisions are made, so there are no open wounds except in some cases where a small incision is made to remove the external hemorrhoids.
• Outpatient Procedure: The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes, and patients can return home the same day.

Recovery Time After Laser Treatment

Recovery from laser hemorrhoid treatment is generally quick and less painful compared to traditional surgery. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within 7-10 days. Some may experience mild discomfort, which usually subsides within few more days.

Here's what to expect during recovery:

• Minimal Pain: Since the procedure is minimally invasive, the pain is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain-killers.
• Reduced Bleeding: Thanks to the precision of the laser, bleeding is minimal.
• Quick Return to Normal Activities: Most people can resume regular work within a few days, but it's recommended to avoid strenuous activities for at least 3 to 4 weeks weeks.
• Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment after 3 to 5 days may be scheduled to ensure proper healing.

How to Prevent Hemorrhoids?

While hemorrhoids can be treated effectively, prevention is always better. To minimize the risk of developing hemorrhoids, consider the following tips:

• Eat a High-Fiber Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps soften stool and prevent constipation.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help digestion and keep your stools soft.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves circulation and reduces the pressure on veins.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting on Job: Take breaks to move around, especially if you have a desk job.
• Avoid Prolonged sitting on Toilet: Prolong sitting on the toilet will increases risk of hemorrhoids.
• Do not Prospone Defecation: Prosponing defecation causes constipation which will increases risk of hemorrhoids.
• Don't Strain: Avoid straining during bowel movements, which can aggravate hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with proper care and treatment, relief is possible. Laser hemorrhoid treatments available in Nepal offer a modern, effective solution for those suffering from this common issue. If you are experiencing symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment plan for you.

By addressing the causes and seeking timely medical intervention, you can manage hemorrhoids effectively and improve your quality of life. Don't hesitate to explore the benefits of laser treatment in Nepal