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Hemorrhoid Treatment With Heat Lamps

Hemorrhoids occur when there is swelling that protrudes through the anus. Enlarged veins are commonly found in hemorrhoids. This condition may cause a discharge, itching, bleeding or soreness during a bowel movement. Hemorrhoids are most often seen in people over the age of 50. The heat lamp procedure is a very effective form of treatment for hemorrhoids.

  1. Procedure

    • The heat lamp procedure for hemorrhoids is also called infrared photocoagulation or coagulation therapy. This treatment is commonly used on small and midsized hemorrhoids. The heat lamp procedure is preferred because it is fast and less painful than other treatments. This procedure is done by using a small probe that creates infrared light. This probe contacts the area right above the hemorrhoid for an average of one second and the tissues are exposed to a burst of infrared light. A clot will form in the veins and the blood supply to the hemorrhoid is cut off. The hemorrhoid will shrink and die, forming a scar in the place of the hemorrhoid. This scar is formed to hold the veins in place and to prevent them from bulging into the anal canal.

      During this procedure you will feel heat for a very short period of time. This is an outpatient procedure that does not require an anesthetic.

    After the Procedure

    • After this procedure you will experience slight bleeding from the anus for seven to 10 days. The bleeding should stop without any medication or remedy. If you experience feelings of discomfort you should sit in a sitz bath for 15 minutes. This will help to relieve some of the pain.

      It is important to avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication for five days before and after this procedure to prevent the risk of bleeding. After this procedure, it is recommended you take stool softeners and add fiber to your diet to reduce straining during a bowel movement. This will also help to prevent hemorrhoids from returning.

    Risk

    • In a small number of cases there is a severe or sharp pain during the procedure. Less than 1 percent of patients may experience severe bleeding. This is considered an emergency and you should seek medical attention immediately. This procedure may cause an inability to urinate for a few hours following treatment. If you are unable to urinate for more than a few hours you should consult with your doctor. Infection and pelvic sepsis occur very rarely but they are considered serious and potentially life-threatening.

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