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Chapter 4: Hemorrhoid Banding FAQ

Although we covered the basics in this guide, you may have more questions. We understand there’s a lot to learn about rubber band ligation and how the process works. In this chapter, we’ll answer common questions patients have about hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid banding. If more questions pop up along the way, contact a CRH O’Regan Physician in your area, or browse our blog for helpful information.

General Hemorrhoid FAQ

Hemorrhoidal disease is complex, so it’s always best to consult your doctor when you have medical concerns. In the meantime, here are answers to some general hemorrhoid questions:

What Do Hemorrhoids Look Like?

External hemorrhoids appear on the anus. You may not always be able to see external hemorrhoids even though they exist outside of your body. If you can see external hemorrhoids, they may look like red lumps that appear in bunches around the anus.

A protruding internal hemorrhoid bulges outside of the anal opening and appears as a red, moist lump. If you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid, you may notice a bluish color around the hemorrhoid.

Can I Pop a Hemorrhoid?

You may be tempted to pop a hemorrhoid with a pin or your finger to relieve the pain it’s causing. However, it’s not a good idea to pop a hemorrhoid for several reasons.

First, it’s hard to see a hemorrhoid on your own, and you could accidentally injure the surrounding tissue.

Secondly, if you have not yet gone to a doctor, there’s no way to be sure the lump is a hemorrhoid or something else.

If you pop a hemorrhoid, you’ll cause an open wound in an area that’s vulnerable to bacteria, and this could lead to an infection.

Lastly, popping a hemorrhoid is extremely painful.

If you’re experiencing hemorrhoid pain, your best bet is to contact your doctor.

Do Hemorrhoids Burst?

A hemorrhoid can burst if it becomes thrombosed. A thrombosed hemorrhoid will not burst in the way a pimple pops. Instead, it will secrete blood if it becomes too full. Thrombosed hemorrhoids cause intense pain before they burst, so most people seek medical attention before this happens.

If a hemorrhoid bursts before you get to a doctor, make an appointment to have the area checked out as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can help keep the area clean and relieve pain by taking a sitz bath.

Can Stress Cause Hemorrhoids?

Stress cannot directly cause hemorrhoids, but it can lead to constipation, one of the main causes of hemorrhoids. When someone feels stressed, they may be more likely to eat unhealthy foods, sleep less, skip exercise or forget to drink enough fluids. All of these factors can cause constipation and strain during bowel movements, which may lead to hemorrhoids.

What Can Hemorrhoids Be Mistaken For?

Various conditions can cause hemorrhoid symptoms such as itching, pain and rectal bleeding. Other causes of hemorrhoid-like symptoms include:

  • Anal fissures
  • Rectal abscess
  • Polyps or tumors
  • Rectal prolapse
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Pruritus ani

Your doctor will take the necessary steps to determine the cause of your symptoms and the appropriate course of action.

Do Hemorrhoids Cause Colorectal Cancer?

Hemorrhoids do not cause colorectal cancer or increase the risk of getting colorectal cancer. However, since cancer and hemorrhoids can both cause bleeding, it’s crucial to get evaluated by a doctor if you experience rectal bleeding.

Are Hemorrhoids a Disease?

When someone experiences symptoms from hemorrhoids, they are considered to have hemorrhoid disease. By definition, a disease is an impairment of the normal state of a living animal. Diseases such as hemorrhoids cause bothersome signs and symptoms.

Does Walking Help Hemorrhoids?

Walking increases blood flow throughout your entire body, which can help tissues in the rectal area heal. Walking also stimulates bowel function and can help prevent constipation. By walking at least 30 minutes a day, you can help manage and prevent hemorrhoids.

Does Sitting Make Hemorrhoids Worse?

Sitting on the toilet for long periods can cause hemorrhoids and make them harder to treat. When you sit on the toilet, you put excess pressure on anal veins because there is no support beneath you. To prevent and help treat hemorrhoids, avoid sitting on the toilet for more than two minutes at a time.

Hemorrhoid Banding FAQ

Now that we’ve addressed a few general hemorrhoid questions, here are answers to common questions regarding hemorrhoid banding:

How Common Is Hemorrhoid Banding?

Rubber band ligation is the most commonly used non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment in the world. Regarding the CRH O’Regan System, thousands of physicians nationwide treat patients with this banding technique.

Can I Band My Own Hemorrhoids?

A trained doctor must perform hemorrhoid banding, and you should never attempt this procedure yourself. Many DIY treatments can be dangerous or simply ineffective, so it’s usually best to consult your doctor first.

How Much Does Hemorrhoid Banding Cost?

Compared to hemorrhoid surgery, hemorrhoid banding is a cost-effective solution. However, it’s important to note that the cost of hemorrhoid treatment varies depending on the technique used. The CRH O’Regan System is one of the most affordable treatments available and covered by most insurers.

If you have questions about hemorrhoid banding costs, please call the office where you plan to get treated for the most current pricing. You can also reach out to a local physician qualified to use the CRH O’Regan System and inquire about copays and treatment costs.

Can Hemorrhoid Banding Fall off Too Soon?

Typically, the banded hemorrhoid won’t fall off for at least two days, but if you find the rubber band floating in the toilet in less than 48 hours, there’s no need to panic. Sometimes rubber bands come off in less than two days but still produce the desired results. If your band comes off in less time than you expected, you may want to speak to your doctor for reassurance.

How Long After Hemorrhoid Banding Can I Poop?

Pooping does not need to be postponed after hemorrhoid banding, and you can go to the bathroom as you usually would. Doctors recommend moving your bowels as soon as you need to.

Although it’s safe to pass stool immediately after a banding procedure, it’s still critical you try not to strain after treatment to allow the area to heal. Your doctor may recommend taking a stool softener to prevent constipation and straining.

Can You Work After Hemorrhoid Banding?

Unless your job involves strenuous tasks, you don’t have to worry about missing work with hemorrhoid banding. We only recommend avoiding vigorous activities on the day of CRH O’Regan treatment. Most patients with office jobs can go back to work immediately after their appointment.

What Kind of Doctor Does Hemorrhoid Banding?

Gastroenterologists typically perform hemorrhoid banding. However, not all doctors have the equipment or experience to perform hemorrhoid banding. Doctors who offer CRH O’Regan treatment, for example, must first be trained to use CRH technology.

If you’re ready to look for a qualified gastroenterologist in your area, consider the following:

  • How much experience the doctor has treating hemorrhoids
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  • If the doctor clearly explains the procedure
  • If the doctor is willing to discuss all treatment options

If you want to learn more about the CRH O’Regan System from a trained doctor, our physician search tool will send you in the right direction.

Find a CRH System Hemorrhoid Banding Doctor Today

Hemorrhoids can be disruptive, embarrassing and frustrating to deal with. For some patients, hemorrhoids are painful and make regular activities feel like a chore. You do not have to revolve your life around hemorrhoid discomfort, nor do you need to suffer in silence — lasting relief from hemorrhoids is available to you.

If you have persistent, irritating hemorrhoids that don’t seem to go away, no matter what you do, it may be time to think about hemorrhoid banding treatment. This fast, effective and painless procedure brings long-term results in little time.

At CRH Medical Corporation, we are dedicated to helping patients find complete relief from hemorrhoids through the CRH O’Regan System.

If you’re ready to learn more about the CRH O’Regan System, search our directory to find a certified physician near you.