Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in and around the lower part of your rectum and anus. When the walls of the blood vessels become thin, they can bulge out and hurt, especially when you have a bowel movement. Fortunately, the condition can be effectively treated with a thrombectomy.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid results from the formation of a blood clot inside a hemorrhoid. While the condition isn’t always considered dangerous, it can be a source of discomfort or pain. If you live in Nesconset, NY, or East Setauket, NY, and are experiencing the symptoms of this condition, the doctors at Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York can provide prompt, discreet, and effective treatment to relieve you of those symptoms.
Symptoms of Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids
This painful form of hemorrhoid often results from straining associated with having a bowel movement, especially if you were constipated. Pregnancy, irregular bowel movements, and sitting for long periods of time (often during travel) are also common causes of thrombosed external hemorrhoids.
This type of hemorrhoid almost always causes discomfort and pain. Many patients describe the pain as debilitating. This type of hemorrhoid can make walking, sitting, or using the restroom difficult.
Common symptoms include:
- Blood in stool following a bowel movement
- Swelling or the presence of a lump near the anus
- Itching around the anus
- Difficulty defecating
A thrombosed hemorrhoid will not typically heal on its own. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, one of our doctors can examine you at our Nesconset-area practice to determine if thrombosed external hemorrhoids are causing your symptoms.
If this type of hemorrhoid is present, we will most likely schedule a surgical procedure to treat your condition.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Diagnosis typically includes a series of questions that inquire into your medical history and current symptoms. One of our doctors may use a gloved hand and lubrication to feel inside your anus for signs of growths or lumps. If needed, one of our doctors can perform a colonoscopy or another type of examination.
During your procedure, local anesthesia will be used to numb the treatment site. A small cut in the surface of the clot will be made by one of our doctors so the hemorrhoid can be drained. Ideally, this procedure should be performed within three days of the thrombosed hemorrhoid forming.
Recovery and Aftercare
Discomfort from a thrombosed hemorrhoid should wane in the days following your procedure. Most of our patients are able to resume light activities and work shortly after their visit, but exercise and strenuous activities should be put off until your body fully recovers.
Patients can find relief from sitz baths soon after the procedure. This treatment consists of sitting in a shallow warm bath for 20 minutes three to four times a day to relieve post-surgical discomfort. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain. Avoid any foods or drugs that cause constipation.
Schedule Your Appointment to Learn More Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, prompt treatment is critical to ensure that the blood clot is drained before other complications arise. Most patients are able to resume normal activities soon after treatment.
To schedule your next visit to Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists, please contact our office online or call (516) 217-8626.
