Hemorrhoids

It’s estimated that around one in 20 Americans experiences hemorrhoids at some point during their lives, and your risk increases as you age. At the office of Tate Kirk, MD, in White Plains, New York, Dr. Kirk provides state-of-the-art, minimally invasive hemorrhoid embolization to shrink and eliminate your hemorrhoids. Call the office or request an appointment online today. 

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a common, potentially painful condition that occurs when an abnormal connection forms between the blood vessels in your rectum, and it swells. As your blood vessels expand, they stretch and become sensitive, irritated, and may bleed. 

Your risk of hemorrhoids increases with age. Also, if you’re pregnant or overweight, you’re more likely to develop hemorrhoids. Other factors that contribute to hemorrhoid development include:

• Chronic constipation and straining to move your bowels
• Chronic diarrhea
• Sitting for too long
• Repeatedly lifting heavy objects

If you have a family history of hemorrhoids, you’re more likely to develop the condition, as some people inherit a vulnerability for hemorrhoids. 

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. For example, you might have painless anal bleeding or find blood on your toilet paper after you wipe. You might also have an itchy or irritated sensation around your anus. Some patients have pain or tenderness. You might also find lumps or swelling around your anus, or you may leak feces.

How are hemorrhoids treated?

Dr. Kirk provides state-of-the-art hemorrhoidal artery embolization via minimally invasive microsurgery for effective and long-lasting relief from your painful hemorrhoid symptoms. 

During the treatment, Dr. Kirk makes a tiny puncture in your thigh and directs a small tube catheter through your blood vessels. He uses live X-ray equipment to guide the catheter to your hemorrhoid. When the catheter is in place, he injects embolization coils into the hemorrhoid that block its blood supply so the hemorrhoid withers and shrinks.

When the procedure is complete, Dr. Kirk withdraws the catheter and closes the tiny puncture wound. Your hemorrhoid symptoms should subside rapidly, and many patients report an almost immediate end to their rectal bleeding. Most patients can get back to their regular activities within a day.

What are the benefits of microsurgery for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Kirk uses microsurgery because it is not only an effective and rapid treatment for hemorrhoids, but it also has minimal side effects and a negligible recovery. Unlike hemorrhoidectomy or other invasive surgery, there are no stitches or large incisions, so you will heal quickly with a very low risk of infection or debilitating complications. Overall, this technique is safe, fast, and nearly pain-free. 

If you have hemorrhoids and are looking for rapid and effective treatment, call the office of Tate Kirk, MD, or request an appointment online today.