Category Archives: internal hemorrhoids

The Gentle Relief: Exploring Infrared Coagulation for Hemorrhoids

Introduction

Hemorrhoids, a common ailment affecting countless individuals, can bring discomfort and disruption to daily life. Among the various treatments available, infrared coagulation (IRC) has emerged as a non-invasive and effective option for addressing hemorrhoidal symptoms. In this blog, we delve into the world of IRC, understanding its mechanism, benefits, procedure, and its role in providing gentle relief to those dealing with hemorrhoids.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort during bowel movements. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (outside the anus). Lifestyle factors, constipation, pregnancy, and genetics are common contributors to their development.

The Mechanism of Infrared Coagulation

Infrared coagulation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat internal hemorrhoids. It operates on the principle of thermal energy application. During the procedure, a specialized device releases a burst of infrared light to the base of the hemorrhoid. This light is absorbed by the blood vessels, causing them to coagulate (clot) and shrink. As a result, the blood supply to the hemorrhoid is reduced, alleviating its symptoms.

Benefits of Infrared Coagulation

  • Non-Invasive: IRC is a non-surgical treatment, making it a favorable option for those who wish to avoid the risks and recovery associated with surgery.
  • Quick Procedure: The procedure is usually quick, often taking only a few minutes. Patients can return to their normal activities shortly after.
  • Minimal Discomfort: IRC is known for its relatively low discomfort level during and after the procedure. It typically requires little to no anesthesia.
  • Reduced Downtime: Compared to surgical options, IRC involves no or minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their regular routines quickly.
  • Outpatient Setting: Infrared coagulation is typically performed on an outpatient basis, reducing the need for hospitalization.

    • The IRC Procedure

    The IRC procedure is typically as follows:

  • Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and a lubricated anoscope is gently inserted into the rectum to visualize the hemorrhoid.
  • Infrared Application: The infrared device is applied to the base of the hemorrhoid. The light energy coagulates the blood vessels, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink.
  • Multiple Sessions: Depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids, multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.
  • Recovery: After the procedure, patients can usually resume their activities immediately. Some mild discomfort or bleeding might be experienced, but this usually subsides quickly.

    • Incorporating IRC in Hemorrhoid Management

    Infrared coagulation has found a significant place in the realm of hemorrhoid management. It offers a middle ground between conservative treatments (such as dietary changes and topical medications) and surgical interventions (like hemorrhoidectomy). For individuals seeking a less invasive solution with quick recovery, IRC can be a viable choice.

    Conclusion

    Hemorrhoids need not be a source of constant discomfort and disruption in one’s life. Infrared coagulation offers a ray of hope, providing a gentle and effective way to address the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids. As medical techniques continue to evolve, IRC stands as a testament to the ability of modern medicine to provide relief without the need for invasive surgeries. If you’re dealing with hemorrhoids, consider discussing the possibility of infrared coagulation with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s the right solution for you.

    Note: One Stop Medical Center provides the service of hemorrhoid care. We have two office locations in Edina, Minnesota, and Casselberry, Florida. If you are interested in hemorrhoid care, Please fill out the online registration first, we will call you in 2 business days, or please call us at 1-888-992-0019 if any questions.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Infrared Coagulation, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , ,

    What are Symptoms of Hemorrhoids | Minneapolis & Orlando

    Hemorrhoids (Piles) are swollen varicose veins located around the anus or in the lower rectum. About 50 percent of adults in Minnesota and Florida experience the symptoms of hemorrhoids by the age of 50.

    Severe pain is actually not a common symptom of internal hemorrhoids, because internal hemorrhoid happens in the area above the dentate line that is supplied by the visceral nerve, like those found within the intestines, which sense pressure and dull discomfort rather than sharp pain. Many patients have mild irritating pain in their rectum periodically, especially when it has a flare-up.

    As the venous complex of an internal hemorrhoid becomes varicose and continues to enlarge, it bulges into the anal canal and loses its normal anchoring, becoming a prolapsing internal hemorrhoid. The prolapsing hemorrhoid usually returns into the anal canal or rectum on its own, or can be pushed back inside using one’s finger, but usually prolapses again after the next bowel movement. In the anal canal, a hemorrhoid is exposed to movement caused by passing stool, particularly hard stools that can cause bleeding and sting pain. The painless rectal bleeding with bright red blood is a common symptom of internal hemorrhoids. The rectal mucosal lining that has been pulled down secretes mucus and moistens the anus and its surrounding skin, while the stool itself can also leak onto the anal skin. Itchiness often occurs as a result of this dual presence of stool and moisture.

    In general, symptoms of external hemorrhoids are different than those of internal hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids can be felt as bulges at the anus, but rarely display any of the same symptoms seen with internal hemorrhoids. They will cause problems, however, if the varicose vein complex ruptures, as blood clots occur and build up the pressure inside the lump. This condition, known as thrombosed external hemorrhoid, causes an extremely painful bluish anal lump and often requires medical attention. The somatic nerve in the anal canal (below the dentate line) can sense pain, this is why the patients feel significant pain when they develop thrombosed external hemorrhoids. Thrombosed hemorrhoids may heal with scarring and leave a tag of skin protruding from the anus. Occasionally, the tag turns out to be quite large, which can make anal hygiene (cleaning) difficult or irritate the anus.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, hemorrhoid symptoms, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    So, What are Hemorrhoids? | Minneapolis & Orlando

    Believe it or not, everyone has had a normal hemorrhoidal tissue in their rectum and anus. It helps us to control bowel function. It’s only when your hemorrhoidal veins enlarge and become varicose veins that they’re considered abnormal or diseased.

    When hemorrhoids become inflamed, they can become painful, especially if they’re located externally. Other symptoms include anal itching, bleeding and prolapse. Unfortunately, over 10 million people suffer from inflamed hemorrhoids every year. How can something so small cause so much pain and discomfort?

    There are three types of hemorrhoids – internal, external, and mixed hemorrhoids that consist of both internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids occur above dentate line of the rectum and anal area. In contrast, external hemorrhoids are located on the outside of the body where the skin has very sensitive nerve endings.

    Internal hemorrhoids are graded from I to IV based on the degree of prolapse. Grade I hemorrhoids usually don’t have bulge with defecation; grade II lesions also bulge with defecation, but then recede spontaneously. Grade III hemorrhoids require digital replacement after prolapsing, while grade IV hemorrhoids cannot be replaced once prolapsed. There are many treatment options for internal hemorrhoids that vary based on the severity of each case.

    External hemorrhoids are those that occur outside the anal verge and affect bowel cleansing after one’s bowel movement, causing skin irritation and itching. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid is usually very painful due to rupture of one’s varicose veins, which causes blood clots and is often accompanied with swelling and irritation. These external hemorrhoids are typically treated with either an incision or removal of the clot, or with an external hemorrhoidectomy performed under local anesthesia.

    Procedure Clinic is the specialized clinic that focuses on office procedures in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Orlando, Florida. We provide complete care for all types of hemorrhoids and other common anorectal diseases with minimally invasive approaches. Dr. Shu has more than 20 years of experience in hemorrhoid care—regardless of how severe your hemorrhoids are, the kind of hemorrhoids you’re dealing with, or if you’re battling any anorectal diseases, we’ll help you find a solution.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , ,

    The Easy Hemorrhoid Care Establishes Satellite Clinic in Chicago

    Summary: The Easy Hemorrhoid Care has established a new satellite clinic in downtown Chicago as part of the company’s national expansion.

    CHICAGO, IL (November 28th, 2019) — Easy Hemorrhoi Care program operated by One Stop Medical Center (OSMC, also Procedure Clinic) in the US, announced today that it has established a new satellite clinic in downtown Chicago as part of the company’s national expansion.

    Located in downtown Chicago at 3201 S Wallace Street, the clinic opened on November 2nd, 2019 and plans to operate one to two days monthly for its first few months, then increase hours accordingly. Dr. Shu will commute between the Twin Cities and Chicago. The Chicago clinic offers the Easy hemorrhoid care program and the other common office procedures.

    “The program offers the same quality of procedures in Chicago as it does in the Twin Cities,” Says Dr. Shu, the medical director of clinic. “Chicago is clearly one of the nation’s most vibrant metropolitan areas and we are thrilled to become part of this special medical service section. The program will benefit patients in other parts of Illinois and its surrounding states.”

    NATIONAL EXPANSION
    According to Dr. Shu, the procedure clinic plans to expand its national footprint to include clinics in two other states, Florida and Texas, complementing its clinic locations throughout Minnesota and the new Chicago office.

    About One Stop Medical Center and Dr. Shu:
    OSMC is a procedure clinic that provides a wide range of office procedure services that emphasize minimal invasion and local anesthesia, including hemorrhoid care, skin surgeries, vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, as well as other common office procedures. OSMC offers the most extensive range of state-of-the-art technologies in the state of Minnesota, with equipment serving every area of office surgical procedures.

    Dr. Steven Shu, MD, MBA, is a board certified laser surgeon who specializes in office procedures and has been in the practice for 20 years. He was an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota medical school from 2006 to 2012, teaching no-scalpel vasectomy and other office procedures. Dr. Shu has adopted countless revolutionary techniques to achieve ideal results with more efficiency, affordability and safety. For more information, visit: http://www.EZvasectomy.com

    Contact:
    Steven Shu, MD, MBA
    E-mail: medical@shuMD.com
    Tel: 1-888-992-0019
    Fax: 952-922-9998

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , ,

    What is a Hemorrhoid? | Minnesota

    Believe it or not, everyone has had a normal hemorrhoidal tissue in their rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids are actually part of our normal anatomy. They are clusters of vascular tissue, smooth muscle, and connective tissue lined by the normal epithelium of the anal canal.
    We used to believe that hemorrhoidal bleeding is venous. Now the evidence indicates that hemorrhoidal bleeding is arterial, which is supported by the bright red color and arterial pH of the blood.

    There are two different types of hemorrhoids: internal and external hemorrhoids based on their anatomic origin and their position relative to the dentate line.

      Internal Hemorrhoids External Hemorrhoids
    Surface Epithelium Columnar epithelium Squamous epithelium
    Nerve Supply Not cutaneous nerves Somatic sensory nerves
    Position relative to the dentate line Above the dentate line Below the dentate line

    Internal hemorrhoids are not supplied by cutaneous nerves and therefore cannot cause sharp pain. hemorrhoids can be found at any position within the rectum, and many have 3 main cushions around the anal canal.

    Under normal circumstances, hemorrhoids vascular tissue helps to assist in defecation during the bowel movement by providing important sensory information, enabling the differentiation between solid, liquid, and gas, and keeping some continence or control of our gas.

    It’s only when your hemorrhoids enlarge and prolapsed that they’re considered abnormal or diseased.

    Dr. Shu has helped thousands of the hemorrhoid patients in the greater Minneapolis and St Paul area with the non-surgical methods and minimal invasive surgery in the past two decades. Please call 952-922-2151 for more information or consultation.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid anatomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    This Was Minnesota’s Most Googled Health Condition of 2018 | Minnesota

    When you think of medical conditions or illnesses related to Minnesotans, you may assume something along the lines of frostbite, pneumonia, dry skin, or just anything related to the state’s extremely cold winters. However, a study of the most frequently Googled health condition in every US state in the past year revealed that the Land of 10,000 Lakes is most concerned about…hemorrhoids.

    Credit: Medicare Health Plans

    According to Patch, Medicare Health Plans first tapped Google Trends to identify the most-searched medical terms overall, then added conditions for a second search to find out which states had the highest search volume for each medical condition.

    Despite hemorrhoids coming in number one for Minnesota, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a high prevalence of hemorrhoids amongst Minnesotans. A higher search rate for a specific condition may simply show “what people in a specific area are most concerned about regarding their health or the health of a loved one.” For example, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was the most Googled condition in nine states, but this doesn’t signify that ADHD is vastly prevalent in all nine states.

    But it’s clear that Minnesotans ARE concerned about hemorrhoid care and hemorrhoid prevention. At One Stop Medical Center, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. For more information on hemorrhoid care, please contact us at (952) 922-2151, or visit our Edina office at 6545 France Avenue South, Suite 290.

     

    Posted in Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, Easy Hemorrhoid Care, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Try These 8 Tips to Relieve Constipation | Minnesota

    Constipation is one of the most common bowel disorders affecting American adults, with roughly 20 percent of the population suffering from hard, painful stools. Defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week for several weeks, constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water from the food passing through it, creating dry stool that’s extremely difficult to pass.

    While constipation is never pleasant, there are a few ways to manage and improve symptoms so that other complications—like hemorrhoids—don’t set in. Below are a few tips for boosting your bowel movements:
     
    1. Eat more apples – This juicy fruit is packed with pectin fibre, which has been found to help relieve constipation and slow down the absorption of excess dietary fats, making you feel fuller for longer. The sorbitol in apple juice also has a laxative effect.

    2. Eat more raisins and figs – If apples aren’t your thing, perhaps these two dried fruits can be added to your diet. High in fiber, raisins and figs are even more beneficial to your digestive system when soaked in water.

    3. Exercise more – Being more active is always beneficial to your health! Hitting the gym or simply going for a jog outside helps aid food breakdown and reduce the time it takes food to move through the large intestine. The less time food sits in your colon, the more water it retains to help ease stool passage later.
     
     
    4. Hydrate – Retaining water in your stool is the key takeaway here, so drinking more fluids is critical. When you don’t drink enough water, your body absorbs more water from the food you eat in order to make up for the imbalance.

    5. Try over-the-counter medications – For a quicker fix, laxatives (used in moderation) can help with constipation. These substances work to loosen your stools and increase bowel movements pretty quickly.

    6. Don’t hold your poop – If you feel even the slightest urge, go to the bathroom! Holding your bowel movements causes stools to sit longer in the colon, increasing the amount of water absorbed. Definitely not what we want!

    7. Drink some coffee – Despite being a diuretic that can dehydrate you if consumed in large quantities, coffee has been shown to stimulate the muscles in your digestive system. Small amounts of soluble fiber in coffee can also boost the balance of your gut bacteria.

    8. Try probiotics – Studies have shown that Bifidobacterium, a bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract, can aid in digestion and reducing constipation. Yogurt, fermented vegetables (kimchi, miso, sauerkraut), cured meats, vinegar and sourdough bread are good options for increasing your probiotics intake.

     

    Posted in Anal fissure, Anal fistula, Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Rectal bleeding, rectal pain | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    The Many Causes of Anal Skin Tags | Minnesota

    While anal skin tags are extremely common, they’re very rarely cause for alarm. These non-cancerous, benign small bumps or raised areas around the anus are essentially excess skin growths that develop for various reasons. They’re usually sensitive to the touch and can be quite itchy, but aren’t usually painful. While some individuals seem to be genetically prone to developing skin tags, a variety of causes ranging from skin friction to hemorrhoids may be linked to skin tag formation.
     

    Who gets anal skin tags?

    Anal skin tags can affect anyone, but they’re much more prevalent in obese individuals and individuals who suffer from chronic bowel problems, especially Crohn’s disease. Additionally, pregnant women tend to develop skin tags more easily due to hormone fluctuations and increased skin friction around the anal region. Those who suffer from hemorrhoids or inflamed lesions and anal injury are also at a higher risk of having anal skin tags.
     

    How do anal skin tags develop?

    Although the exact causes of skin tags are unclear, they usually result from one or more of the following:

  • Hemorrhoids – When swollen hemorrhoids begin to shrink and eventually heal, excess skin may remain and form into a skin tag.

  • Diarrhea – Also related to friction, having recurrent bowel movements can irritate the skin around the anus, especially if combined with excess wiping.

  • Constipation – Too many bowel movements can lead to skin tags, as can too few bowel movements. When you overstrain, the anal blood vessels can swell and bulge; skin near the anus must also stretch to accommodate large or hard stools. Skin tags form when the skin fails to snap back to its original position.

  • Friction/irritation – Increased friction between surfaces of the skin, such as from exercising or prolonged sitting, can lead to anal skin tags.

  • Crohn’s disease – Sufferers of this chronic bowel disorder experience inflamed intestines and bouts of diarrhea and constipation, all of which contribute to a higher risk of skin tags.

    •  

    How can I prevent anal skin tags from forming?

  • Decrease the chances of constipation and diarrhea by eating plenty of fiber and keeping your bowel movements regular.

  • Do not excessively wipe after a bowel movement to avoid excess friction and irritation.

  • Do not wear overly tight underwear, which can cause skin irritation and unnecessary friction while moving or sitting.

  • Aim for a healthy body weight and avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Overweight and obese individuals are more prone to developing skin tags, so eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising can significantly lower your risk.

    •  

    Posted in Anal fissure, Anal itching, anal tags, Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Excessive Smartphone Usage May Be Giving You Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    The average American spends over five hours per day scrolling through Instagram feeds, checking Twitter, answering emails and texts, and watching Netflix—all via smartphone devices and, more often than not, while sitting. Add in the extra layer of using these mobile devices during bathroom trips, and most of us have significantly increased our risk of developing hemorrhoids.

    A 2015 survey found that 9 out of 10 people bring their mobile device with them to the bathroom, a habit that leads to unnecessary extra time on the toilet. While doctors recommend that you spend no more than 10 minutes at a time sitting on a toilet, being absorbed in the contents of your phone can easily extend that window to 15-20 minutes or longer.

    This prolonged sitting time can then cause excess pressure on your rectal veins and increase your hemorrhoid risk. Additional straining may also cause existing hemorrhoids to engorge, swell and bleed. In general, your bowel movements should last somewhere between 3-10 minutes, as anything longer may indicate constipation.

    Furthermore, another major concern of using mobile devices in the bathroom is the risk of fecal contamination. A 2017 study of high school students’ smartphone usage showed that these devices can cling to E.coli and other bacteria, potentially making mobile devices even dirtier than toilet seats. Gross.
     

    Tips for Better Bathroom Habits

  • Only sit on the toilet for as long as you need to. If there isn’t an actual urge for a bowel movement, don’t force it.

  • Do NOT sit and strain for long periods of time. The more you strain, the more irritated those rectal veins will become!

  • Set a timer if you get distracted easily so that you’re aware of how long you’ve been sitting.

  • Always wash your hands before leaving the bathroom, and try to wipe down your smartphone!

    •  

    Posted in Anal lump, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, rectal lump, Thrombosed external hemorrhoid | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Here’s What You Need to Know About an Anoscopy | Minnesota

    If you’re undergoing an anoscopy soon and unsure of what to expect, don’t fret—this simple procedure is pretty straightforward and extremely effective in helping your doctor diagnosis whatever anal/colorectal condition you may have.
     

    What is an anoscopy?

    An anoscopy is a quick and painless examination used to identify and diagnose any problems in the gastrointestinal tract, specifically inside the anus and rectum. The procedure helps your doctor identify various potential anorectal conditions, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, anal polyps, anal abscesses and, more rarely, anal cancer. An anoscopy is often performed in conjunction with other diagnostic tests such as a digital rectal exam (DRE) or a biopsy.
     

    How is an anoscopy performed?

    You’ll first be asked to remove your clothing and undergarments and lie down either sideways or bending forward on the exam table.

    Your doctor will then insert a light-equipped device called an anoscope into your lower gastrointestinal tract via the anus. An anoscope is a small, hollow, rigid tube roughly 3-5 inches long and 2 inches wide and is usually coated with a jelly-like substance to help ease insertion. While the device is being inserted, your doctor may also ask you to clamp and relax your internal muscles to help with the placement of the anoscope.

    During the procedure, you may feel pressure or an urge to have a bowel movement. If you have hemorrhoids, there may be a small amount of bleeding.

    Once the exam is completed, your doctor will gently withdraw the anoscope.
     

    How do you prepare for an anoscopy?

    There isn’t any special preparation required for an anoscopy. However, you’ll be advised to empty your bladder and bowels prior to the procedure to make the exam more comfortable. To help with this, your doctor may give you a laxative or enema.

    Most patients are able to drive themselves home following the procedure, so you won’t need to arrange for someone to pick you up unless you wish to.
     
     
    Once your doctor confirms the results of your anoscopy, you can move forward with determining the best treatment plan for your condition. Click here to learn more about the anorectal anatomy and potential anorectal conditions.

     

    Posted in Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    The Potential Health Benefits of Elephant Foot Yam | Minnesota

    Alternative MedicineYes, you read that correctly—elephant foot yam is loaded with potential medicinal benefits and may even improve hemorrhoidal symptoms. This alternative medicine has long been used in Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine rooted in the Indian subcontinent whose practices have recently been globalized. Used to treat numerous conditions such as sperm quality, liver and spleen disorders, and hemorrhages, elephant foot yam just may be the next big home remedy for treating hemorrhoids as well.

    The thickened, underground part of the yam’s stem, known as tubers, is often prescribed as medicine in Ayurveda to treat hemorrhoids, dysentery, asthma, vomiting and abdominal pain. While it is typically used as a blood purifier, tubers can also be made into a paste to externally treat arthritis pain.

    In treating hemorrhoid symptoms, elephant foot yam can be prepared as a medicine called “suran vataka,” recommended to be taken in small capsules (1-2 grams each) both morning and evening on an empty stomach. While the exact treatment results are unclear due to the yam’s alternative nature, this has long been a prescribed treatment method for patients in India suffering from hemorrhoid/bowel discomfort.
     

    Other Potential Health Benefits of Elephant Foot Yam

  • The cooling effect of the yam can be a cure for hypertension.

  • The yam may help reduce cholesterol levels.

  • It can serve as an anticoagulant (blood thinner) to improve blood flow.

  • Elephant foot yam may even help maintain hormonal balance in women by increasing estrogen levels and relieving them of pre-menstrual syndrome.

  • The presence of Vitamin C can help delay aging.

  • Elephant foot yam may also benefit patients who suffer from acute rheumatism.

  • Irregular bowel movements and constipation may be cured through consuming elephant foot yam.

  • It may help reduce muscle spasms.

    •  
    Please note that while elephant foot yam may help with hemorrhoid symptoms, anyone who suffers from hemorrhoid discomfort should see a doctor for a full evaluation. Home remedies certainly help with symptoms, but it’s always best to see a doctor for a complete, thorough treatment method.

     

    Posted in Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, rectal lump, rectal pain | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    5 Potential Side Effects of Taking Stool Softeners | Minnesota

    When considering temporary hemorrhoid treatment options and lifestyle changes to help battle hemorrhoid flare-ups, stool softeners are almost always recommended. Because hemorrhoids often develop as a result of constipation and overstraining during bowel movements, taking stool softeners is an efficient short-term option for easing stool passage.

    However, every drug has its side effects. While stool softeners are generally well-tolerated by hemorrhoid patients, there are a few potential side effects that can cause discomfort.
     
     
    Stomach Cramps

    Because the ingredients in stool softeners aim to soften your stool for easier bowel movements, there’s a chance that you’ll experience stomach/intestinal cramps. Your digestive tract, which was previously constipated, is now suddenly being affected by changing stool habits. Make sure to drink plenty of water while taking stool softeners to help prevent cramping.
     
    Diarrhea

    If you exceed the recommended dosage for your stool softener, your stool may become overly runny and loose, potentially leading to over-passage of stool. If diarrhea does occur, drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
     
    Nausea & Vomiting

    Whenever your digestive tract is affected, there’s always the risk of nausea and vomiting. If vomiting occurs, stop taking the stool softener immediately, as severe vomiting can lead to dehydration and more extreme digestive issues.
     
    Allergic Reaction

    While allergic reactions to stool softeners are fairly rare, they can occur. Hives, difficulty breathing, rashes, and swelling in the lips, hands and tongue can all potentially develop. In these cases, immediately stop taking the stool softener; call 911 if a severe allergic reaction occurs.
     
    Rectal Bleeding

    This side effect is more uncommon, but if rectal bleeding or irritation occurs, call your doctor immediately.
     

    If you experience any of the above side effects, stop using the stool softener and call your doctor to discuss alternative treatment methods.
     

    Posted in Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Rectal bleeding | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Is a Hemorrhoidectomy During Pregnancy Safe? | Minnesota


     
    Hemorrhoids during pregnancy is, without a doubt, one of the most irritating and uncomfortable parts of the pregnancy process. While developing pregnancy hemorrhoids is extremely common, treatment methods differ depending on the size and severity of a patient’s hemorrhoids. While some women are able to effectively utilize home remedies or less invasive procedures like infrared coagulation (IRC) and rubber band ligation (RBL), there’s the unfortunate chance that your hemorrhoids will require a hemorrhoidectomy.

    Typically used to treat more extreme, grade 4 internal hemorrhoids or severe cases of external hemorrhoids and thrombosed external hemorrhoids, a hemorrhoidectomy is a more invasive hemorrhoid removal procedure. It’s generally used on patients whose external hemorrhoids clot repeatedly, who don’t respond to rubber band ligation, whose protruding hemorrhoid does not respond to treatment, or who experience ongoing bleeding.
     

    Are Hemorrhoidectomies Safe for Pregnant Patients?

    Because a hemorrhoidectomy is more intensive, it’s admittedly not the preferred treatment method for pregnant patients. However, it is perfectly safe to perform either during pregnancy or shortly afterward. In the case that your hemorrhoids fail to respond to less invasive treatments, your doctor will most likely suggest surgery in the form of a hemorrhoidectomy. Here at One Stop Medical Center, Dr. Shu opts for a less invasive version of a traditional hemorrhoidectomy, combining it with rubber banding and IRC. This approach typically produces great results while allowing patients a quicker recovery.

    During the hemorrhoidectomy, the bleeding tissue is surgically removed with a radio frequency device under local anesthesia. Both ends of the hemorrhoid must be tied to prevent bleeding while the hemorrhoid is being removed. After excision is completed, the incision site is sewn or cauterized shut. Medicated gauze is then placed over the remaining wound. Healing time is generally four to six weeks, during which patients must increase fiber intake, drink plenty of fluids, and take stool softeners to ease bowel movements.
     
    Click here to learn more about our hemorrhoid treatment options, or call us at (952) 922-2151 to schedule a consultation.

     

    Posted in Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, Easy Hemorrhoid Care, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Thrombosed external hemorrhoid | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Here’s Why Your Anus May Be Itching at Night | Minnesota

    If you’ve ever experienced an itchy bum in the middle of the night, it’s quite an unpleasant sensation. Scratching the area may provide temporary relief, but the harshness of your nails ends up causing further irritation and damage to the already sensitive anal region.

    Known as pruritis ani, this condition literally translates to “itchy anus” and occurs on an intense, cyclical basis where an unpleasant burning sensation around the anus produces the urge to scratch. This feeling typically intensifies at night or after a bowel movement, when even minimal stimulation of the anal skin can cause extreme itching.

    So what causes anal itching? The exact reason for pruritis ani is unclear, but it is often linked to anorectal diseases, lifestyle habits and skin conditions. Below are a few of the more common reasons your bum may be keeping you up at night:
     

    Hemorrhoids

    Anal itching is both a symptom and complication of hemorrhoids that can escalate into pruritis ani. When a patient experiences hemorrhoid flare-ups, blood vessels in the walls of their anus and lower rectum swell and bulge, often causing inflammation and bleeding. This irritation around the anus causes sporadic itching, and continuous scratching of the area can further harm the sensitive tissues and worsen symptoms.

    More specifically, itching can occur when overstraining during bowel movements pushes an internal hemorrhoid outside the anus, otherwise known as a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid. Internal mucus then comes into contact with the anal tissues and prolongs the itching.
     

    Pinworms

    Pinworms are tiny parasites that infect the colon and rectum via ingestion of their eggs through contamination. Once the eggs hatch in your intestines, the pinworms wiggle out from the anus (especially at night) and lay eggs on the surrounding anal skin. The primary symptom is intense anal itching that causes restless sleep. However, treating pinworms is usually a simple and straightforward process of oral medication and topical creams.
     

    Skin Conditions

    Chronic skin disorders around the anal region, such as eczema and idiopathic dermatitis, can cause itching and dry, flaky skin for no apparent reason. Allergic dermatitis, however, results from the skin coming into contact with an allergen via creams, lotions, soap, powders, etc. and having a negative reaction. At times, excessive cleaning using one of the aforementioned products ends up worsening one’s anal itching. While chronic skin conditions are untreatable, allergen-based conditions can be managed by avoiding the triggering products.
     

    Hygiene Habits

    Both excessive cleaning and lack of cleaning of the anal region can irritate the skin. Over-wiping after bowel movements, especially with rough toilet paper or soap/topical products, can lead to dryness and itching.
     
    For more information on pruritis ani and its causes and treatment methods, check out our earlier blog post here.

     

    Posted in Anal itching, Anorectal Care, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Pruritis Ani | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    10 Reasons For Rectal Bleeding That Aren’t Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    Bleeding from your rectum or anus is never a pleasant experience, and it can understandably cause immediate panic. Generally, bright red blood indicates bleeding in the lower rectum, while dark red blood indicates bleeding from deeper and further up in the body. While passing dark red blood is usually a sign of digestive bleeding and requires immediate attention, any amount of rectal bleeding should be taken seriously.

    While rectal bleeding can be caused by pesky hemorrhoids, there are a number of other potential causes ranging from fistulas and fissures to more serious cases of colon/bowel cancer.
     
    1. Anal Fistula
    An anal fistula is an inflammatory tunnel under the skin connecting the anal canal and the surface of the surrounding skin. Most fistulas occur from an anorectal infection, where the anal crypts are infected and cysts containing pus form near the anal canal. Fistulas are often misdiagnosed as hemorrhoids, as symptoms can be similar, including drainage from the anus, itchiness and pain during bowel movements. They can be treated with antibiotics, pain meds and a fistulotomy.

    2. Anal Fissure
    An anal fissure is a small rip or tear in the lining of the anal cana typically caused by trauma to the inner lining of the anus via a bowel movement or stretching of the anal canal. They can be painful, but fissures often heal within a few weeks through increasing fiber/fluid intake to keep stool soft and help ease bowel movements.

    3. Colon Cancer
    As scary as it may sound, rectal bleeding is a dangerous sign of colon cancer and must be taken very seriously. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include abdominal pain, a change in bowel habits, an anal or rectal lump, and bleeding during bowel movements. Click here to read our post on the differences between rectal cancer and hemorrhoids.

    4. Gastroenteritis
    Gastroenteritis, otherwise known as the stomach flu, is a common bacterial infection that causes diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Due to inflammation in the stomach and colon, the bowel becomes more sensitive during the illness and may cause bloody stools. While the process is uncomfortable, gastroenteritis normally clears up after a few days of rest and hydration.

    5. Diverticulosis
    Diverticulosis is a chronic bowel condition that causes small bulges or pockets to develop in the lining of the intestine/digestive tract. If these bulges become inflamed or infected, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and bloody stools can occur. More common in people over 40, diverticulosis can be treated using diet modifications, antibiotics and, if needed, surgery.

    6. Rectal Prolapse
    Believe it or not, a bit of your intestine can actually slip outside of your body. A rectal prolapse occurs when part of the large intestine slips outside the anus, which can happen during a bowel movement. This in turn causes pain and bright red blood in the stool, as well as difficulty in controlling your bowel movements. A prolapse usually requires surgical treatment, so call your doctor right away.

    7. Polyps
    Polyps are non-cancerous growths that can develop along the lining of your bowel. They’re pretty common and don’t usually manifest symptoms. In more severe cases, they can cause diarrhea, constipation, mucus in the stool and bloody stools. While most polyps do not escalate into cancer, there is still risk of cancer development. Be sure to call your doctor for a full examination.

    8. Internal Bleeding
    As mentioned earlier, darker colored blood can be a sign of internal bleeding in your digestive system. It can also be a sign of cancer, stomach ulcers or severe gastrointestinal disease. If you see dark red blood in your stool call your doctor ASAP.

    9. Colitis
    Colitis is a chronic inflammation of the innermost lining of the large intestine and rectum. Small ulcers develop in the lining of the bowel, which then bleed and produce pus. This causes recurring diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and the frequent urge to pass stools. Management of colitis conditions can include antibiotics, medications and surgery.

    10. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
    Sexually transmitted infections (STI) can result from unprotected anal sex and cause inflammation of the lining of the anus, which can lead to bleeding and pus. Treatment includes antibiotics and antiviral/antifungal medications.

     

    Posted in anal abscesses, Anal Cancer, Anal fissure, Anal fistula, Anal lump, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Rectal bleeding, rectal lump, rectal pain | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Here’s What to Expect After Undergoing Rubber Band Ligation | Minnesota

    Rubber band ligation (RBL) is a common treatment method for hemorrhoids, especially prolapsed hemorrhoids, in Minnesota. This office procedure is almost never appropriate for grade 1 or mild grade 2 hemorrhoids (which are treated with IRC) or more severe grade 4 hemorrhoids (which are treated with surgery). RBL involves a doctor inserting a scope into the anus and clamping onto the prolapsed hemorrhoid to place a rubber band around its base, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid and causing it to shrink and die off. The procedure only takes a few minutes but is usually limited to one hemorrhoid per office visit. RBL downgrades hemorrhoids to grades 1 or 2, and any remaining hemorrhoids are typically treated with infrared coaguation (IRC).
     

    What Happens After the Procedure?

    After rubber band ligation, you’ll typically experience a bit of pain and a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen, as well as an urge to have a bowel movement. These sensations are totally normal and usually subside within a few days. You may also experience small amounts of anal/rectal bleeding for about 7 days after procedure due to the hemorrhoid falling off. It’s encouraged to avoid physically intense activities that strain the body for at least 2-3 weeks. While some patients are able to return to regular activities immediately, others may need a couple days of downtime and bed rest.

    Below are a few guidelines for navigating your post-rubber band ligation recovery process:

    Avoid any strenuous exercises, such as biking/cycling, jogging, weight lifting, and aerobics, for 2-3 weeks or until your doctor gives you the green light.

    Avoid lifting heavy objects for 2-3 weeks, including groceries, backpacks/briefcases, dog food, children, etc.

    If you previously took any medications or blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), or aspirin, your doctor will let you know when it’s okay to restart your meds.

    Take your post-surgery pain medications exactly as directed, but do not take two or more types of pain meds at the same time unless instructed to.

    Take showers/baths as usual, but make sure to thoroughly dry the anal area dry.

    Drink plenty of fluids, and eat lots of high-fiber foods to aid your bowel movements.

    Take stool softener such as Colace to keep stool soft.

    Try to avoid straining during bowel movements.

    To speed up your recovery process, take a sitz bath (sit in 2-3 inches of warm water for 15-20 minutes) three times daily AND after bowel movements. Remember to pat the anal area dry afterward.

    Call your doctor immediately if you cannot pass stools or gas, see bright red blood soaking through the bandage, or see signs of infection (increased pain, swelling, redness, pus draining from the area, fever).

     

    Posted in Easy Hemorrhoid Care, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid banding, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Major Moments in Hemorrhoids History | Minnesota

    Hemorrhoids have plagued humans for thousands of years, with the earliest known mention of its symptoms dating back to roughly ~2250 BC in the kingdom of Babylon in the Code of King Hammurabi. Fast forward to 1700 BC in Egypt, and we stumble upon the first-ever recorded case of hemorrhoids, which also happened to highlight an important topical wound ointment.

    The first use of the word “haemorrhoids” in the English language occurred in 1398. The term derived from the Old French word “emorroides,” taken from Latin derivative “hæmorrhoida-ae,” which in turn originated from the Greek word for “haimorrhois.”

    Below is a timeline of key events in the history of hemorrhoid development:
     

    Hemorrhoid History: A Timeline

    ~2250 BC: Babylon Code of King Hammurabi described the symptoms of hemorrhoids

    1700 BC: Egyptian papyrus pronounced a topical astringent lotion

    1552 BC: Egyptian medical record detailed remedies for hemorrhoids

    1046 BC: Old Testament, 1 Samuel 5:9 Philistines punished with “emerods”, and in 1 Samuel 5:12 People who moved the Ark to Ekron were punished with “emerods”

    460–375 BC: Hippocratic Treatises described hemorrhoid treatment by cautery and excision, and first recorded use of speculum to inspect the rectum (endoscopy)

    25 BC–AD 50: Celsus describes Pile ligation

    41–68: Roman physician Dioscorides defined Aloe Vera use for easing hemorrhoids

    130–200: Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius’s physician Galen pronounced hemorrhoids treatment ointment containing laxatives and leeches. He also explained thread use to tie off piles causing them to shrivel up

    4th–5th Century: Indian Susruta Samhita text defined clamp and cautery use

    5th–10th Century: Arab physician El-Zahrawy defined cautery irons use, whilst Byzantine physicians ligated with thread on the hemorrhoid base, before amputating

    1307–1370: John of Ardene’s exposition transcribed hemorrhoids and fistula treatment, and enemas use

    1806: Modern era of endoscopy was piloted by Bozzini with his aluminum tube to expose the genitourinary tract

    1835: St.Marks Hospital London was founded by Frederick Salmon providing modern hemorrhoids and fistula treatment

    1849: Introduction of anal dilation for hemorrhoids treatment

    1935: St.Marks Hospital further developed excision and ligation methods at the hands of ETC Milligan and C Naughton Morgan – nowadays defined as the gold inhemorrhoidectomy standard

    1952: Modification to the Milligan-Morgan procedure introduced by Ferguson

    1955: A.G. Parks’ developed his closed method surgical treatment the hemorrhoidectomy

    1963: J Barron developed an out-patient rubber band procedure to tie hemorrhoids

    1970: Development of cryotheraphy, diathermy, infrared coagulation and laser cauteries

    1975: PH Lord developed his anal dilation hemorrhoid treatment method, whilst WHF Thompson postulated that hemorrhoids developed from anal cushions that are part of the normal anatomical structures

    1997: Italian A Longo introduced his stapled hemorrhoidectomy procedure for prolapsed hemorrhoids
     
    Due to lack of studies and documentation on hemorrhoids, as well as lack of patients seeking medical assistance, the exact prevalence of hemorrhoids is unknown. However, it’s estimated that roughly half of Americans develop hemorrhoids by age 50, with roughly five percent of the US population affected.

    The outlook for hemorrhoid treatment and rehabilitation is generally positive. While some individuals suffer from flare-ups and recurring hemorrhoids, only a small portion of patients require surgery.

     

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Battling Hemorrhoids? Try These Exercises to Alleviate Symptoms | Minnesota

    Dealing with hemorrhoid discomfort can be a real pain (literally). In addition to visiting your doctor for a full exam, home remedies and lifestyle changes can help with relieving hemorrhoid symptoms. One important activity that can significantly assist your hemorrhoid prevention progress is exercising, which can include anything from simple walking to more intense cardio workouts.
     

    Kegel Exercises

    Also referred to as pelvic exercises, kegel exercises strengthen the muscles in the pelvic area and can help prevent hemorrhoids by increasing blood flow to the anal region and improving blood circulation. Strong anal muscles provide good support for internal hemorrhoids while also preventing existing ones from enlarging or protruding. Kegels can also help tighten tissues and control leaking around hemorrhoid problem areas.

    The most basic Kegel exercise consists of simple pelvic muscle contractions. Similar to squeezing your pelvic region when you feel the need to urinate, squeeze and hold that same movement for five seconds. Release and relax for five seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times per session, three times daily.

    And contrary to popular belief, kegel exercises can be done by both men and women!
     

    Brisk Walking

    One of the easiest activities to incorporate into your daily lifestyle, brisk and regular walking for 20-30 minutes daily can help with hemorrhoid symptoms. Begin by walking slowly to warm up. Increase your pace after a few minutes to increase your heart rate and improve your body’s blood circulation.

    Remember: the goal is to improve blood flow to your pelvic region, so walking keeps your body upright rather than sedentary on a couch.
     

    Aerobics/Cardio Workouts

    Aerobic exercises are ideal for treating hemorrhoid symptoms, as they get the blood flowing and help relax any strained muscles in the lower part of the body. Performing aerobics—or other forms of cardio—regularly improves blood circulation not only throughout the entire body, but also to the pelvic/anal regions. On top of that, more cardio workouts means more sweat and drinking more water; aerobics can also help you avoid constipation, one of the primary causes of hemorrhoids. Good examples of aerobic activities are running, swimming, spinning/cycling, dancing, and aerobics classes.

     

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    These Everyday Habits May Be Giving You Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    As unpleasant as hemorrhoids may sound, they are, believe it or not, quite common. With over three million cases reported each year, hemorrhoids are merely swollen veins caused by pressure on the bowels. While major lifestyle changes, such as pregnancy, can cause hemorrhoid development, many cases actually develop from seemingly insignificant everyday habits that build up over time. From diet choices to fitness and movement, below are a few common habits to be mindful of if you’re worried about hemorrhoids:
     
    1. Not enough fiber – Low fiber intake can lead to constipation, which directly causes overstraining during bowel movements and, thus, inflamed veins. Try to aim for 25-50 grams of fiber everyday, eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and nuts. For more on increasing your fiber intake, check out our post on the best and worst foods for preventing hemorrhoids.
     
    2. Straining/overexerting yourself during workouts – If a weight is too heavy, DON’T force yourself. Suddenly increasing weight amounts too quickly puts a burst of pressure on your lower region, which is NOT what you want for your blood vessels.
     
    3. Sitting too long on the toilet – Sitting for too long is never a good thing for your body! Hemorrhoids usually worsen or develop when there’s an increased, downward pressure, so the longer you sit on the toilet checking Twitter, the more your blood pools downward and adds pressure to the veins. Adding onto the fiber point above, eating more fiber should help increase the speed of your bowel movements and prevent added toilet-squatting time.
     
    4. Eating too much processed food – Fast food, frozen meals and pre-packaged junk food are absolutely terrible diet options, as they contain few nutrients and loads of sodium. They also contain inflammation-promoting ingredients that increase constipation and bloating. Avoid!
     
    5. Sitting for long periods of time – It’s not just excessive toilet-sitting that’s frowned upon. Sitting and binge-watching four straight hours of Keeping Up With the Kardashians will essentially produce the same negative results. Decreased mobility can cause blood flow to also decrease, and blood is more likely to gather up/pool in the anal veins, causing irritation and swelling that can develop into hemorrhoids.
     
    6. Not hydrating enough – Along with increasing your fiber intake, drinking more fluids (preferably water) throughout the day helps promote good digestion and proper stool passage. Aim for at least eight cups of water daily.
     
    If you do develop hemorrhoids, you may be able to alleviate discomfort using these home remedies. However, it’s important to still visit your doctor for a full examination and treatment rundown.

     

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    The Best & Worst Foods to Eat When You Have Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    Dealing with hemorrhoids is no walk in the park, but knowing the right kinds of food to incorporate into your daily diet can make a major difference in treating and preventing flare-ups. While it’s always encouraged to fill your diet with high-fiber foods, the vast amount of fiber-filled options can be pretty overwhelming! Below is a quick and dirty breakdown of the best and worst foods to consume while dealing with hemorrhoids.

     

     

    BEST FOODS

    EAT plenty of fruits and vegetables. Apples, berries, broccoli, leafy greens and winter squash are great options. It goes without saying that fruits and vegetables provide valuable nutrients, and most people don’t consume enough of them. In addition to easing constipation symptoms, fruits and vegetables add bulk to your stool and may reduce strain during bowel movements.

    EAT whole grains. Oatmeal is one of the most popular whole grain foods, as well as whole grain breads, brown rice and popcorn. Whole grains have NOT been refined and contain all the nutritious parts of the original grain, providing more fiber, protein and micronutrients.

    EAT more legumes (beans, lentils, nuts). Black beans, almonds, chickpeas and edamame contain large amounts of fiber even in very small portions. The legume family is also credited for helping decrease blood sugar levels and increase healthy gut bacteria.

    EAT flax, hemp and chia seeds. These are all good sources of soluble fiber.

    DRINK LOTS OF WATER! In addition to helping with your increased fiber intake, water throughout the day is crucial for good digestion. Aim for at least eight cups of water daily.

    Remember: Shoot for 25-50 grams of fiber everyday. Too much fiber in one sitting can cause gas and bloating, so be sure to add it to your diet in small increments.
     

    WORST FOODS

    AVOID refined grains. This includes white bread, bagels, white rice and pretty much anything made from white flour. Refined grains have been milled, which removes the bran and germ and, consequently, any nutrients the grain originally contained.

    AVOID processed foods as much as possible. Fast food, frozen meals and pre-packaged junk food are absolutely terrible options, as they contain few nutrients and tons of sodium. They also contain inflammation-promoting ingredients that increase constipation and bloating.

    AVOID excessive alcohol. This can be tough, but alcohol dehydrates your body and can lead to constipation and disrupt the digestive balance in your stomach.

    AVOID dairy. Milk and cheese products can irritate hemorrhoids since they often cause gas and bloating, which can contribute to hemorrhoid pain and stomach cramps if you are already constipated.

    AVOID fried, salty food. Fries, fried chicken, fritters, the list goes on. These items scream inflammation and can cause your body to hang onto water, putting more pressure on your blood vessels. More pressure means more likelihood of developing hemorrhoids. Fried foods are also difficult to digest.

    AVOID spicy food. Again, inflammation.
     
     

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Hemorrhoids vs. Rectal Cancer: How to Tell the Difference | Minnesota

    Because the symptoms of hemorrhoids and early-stage rectal/colon cancer are very similar, people often confuse and, at times, misdiagnose the two conditions. Since the treatment method for each condition is vastly different, it’s important to know how to differentiate hemorrhoids from rectal cancer and proceed with the appropriate treatment options.

    Rectal Cancer

    The most obvious and noticeable symptom of rectal cancer is a malignant tumor (cancerous tumor that spreads) that forms in the tissues of the rectum. Additional rectal cancer symptoms can include:

  • Stools that are not round in shape
  • Bloody stools
  • A change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
  • Anal tenesmus (the feeling of urgently and constantly needing to pass stools due to rectal inflammation)
  • Unexplained weight loss (typically later symptom)
  • Unexplained fatigue (typically later symptom)
  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain (typically later symptom)

    • The risk of rectal cancer increases as you age, so the condition is more common in individuals over 50, although it can also manifest in younger people. Those with either a personal or family history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk.

    If you have any of above symptoms, you’ll need to still see a doctor for a digital rectal exam, colonoscopy and full work-up.
     

    Hemorrhoids

    Hemorrhoids are swollen, bulging blood vessels in the walls of the anus and lower rectum. When the tissues supporting the vessels become inflamed and stretch, the vessels expand and cause its walls to thin. This often leads to bleeding. If the intense stretching and internal pressure continue, these already weakened vessels ultimately protrude from the anus. Patients with hemorrhoids can suffer from internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, or both.

    Internal hemorrhoids are small or large hemorrhoids that develop inside the rectum and do not protrude outside the anus. They may bleed but are normally painless.

    External hemorrhoids are small or large hemorrhoids that protrude from the anus and bleed. Some external hemorrhoids retract back into the anal sphincter after a period of time, while larger, more severe ones require manual pushing to force them back into the interior of the anus. Hemorrhoids can exit the body via coughing, sneezing, laughing or standing for long periods of time. Prolapsed hemorrhoids can produce external anal mucus and itching around the anus.

    Symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

  • Discomfort, itching or pain around your anus
  • Bloody stools or seeing blood on the toilet paper when wiping
  • Moist, pink bumps around the edge of the anus, or bulging out from the anus
  • Severe or abnormal pain (advanced hemorrhoids)
  • Discomfort when sitting and laying down (advanced hemorrhoids)

    • Unlike rectal cancer, hemorrhoids are typically caused by changeable lifestyle habits such as lack of movement and exercise (lack of blood circulation), sedentary work, and straining from constipation, as well as pregnancy.

    If you experience any of the above rectal cancer or hemorrhoid symptoms, see a doctor immediately. For more on rectal examinations, check out our blog post about what to expect from a standard rectal exam.

     

    Posted in anal abscesses, Anal Cancer, Anal lump, Anorectal Diseases, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, rectal lump | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    How Aging Increases Your Chances of Getting Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    As we grow older and experience a variety of physical and mental changes to our bodies, we also become more susceptible to disease and illness. Because our regenerative powers slowly decrease over time, our bodies have a tougher time battling symptoms as we age—making hemorrhoids all the more common and bothersome.

    How Aging Affects the Development of Hemorrhoids

    Hemorrhoids, which develop when the veins in the anus and rectum become distressed and swollen, are much more of a threat when the body is sedentary. Decreased mobility (and increased amounts of time sitting), typically associated with aging, can cause blood flow to the lower part of the body to also decrease. The blood is then more likely to gather up/pool in the anal veins, causing irritation and swelling that can develop into hemorrhoids.

    Older individuals are also more prone to constipation as a result of having a more sedentary lifestyle. The straining that occurs from constipation, due to passing hard and dry stools, can cause prolonged stress to the anal and rectal veins. Once the blood vessels in these veins become extremely irritated, hemorrhoids can develop.

    Preventing Hemorrhoids in Old Age

    Diet Changes

    Hemorrhoids in the elderly can be effectively prevented by making conscious diet and lifestyle changes. A high-fiber diet helps maintain healthy bowel movements, thereby lowering chances of constipation and anal vein swelling. Consuming more fruits and vegetables, as well as legumes (chickpeas, lentils, soybeans) and whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, barley), easily adds more fiber to your diet.

    Oatmeal bowlChickpeas

    DRINK. MORE. WATER. Consuming plenty of fluids helps keep the bowel healthy and functioning, and stools remain soft. This further prevents constipation and lowers your chances of having hemorrhoids.

    Exercise

    For elderly individuals who are capable of moderate levels of exercise, this is another good way to improve overall bowel movement and lower body blood circulation. Daily short walks, light swimming, and gardening are all appropriate examples of moderate exercise. However, you should always consult your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise routine.

    Treating Hemorrhoids at Home

    If the above prevention methods fail, and you find yourself with pesky hemorrhoids, there are a few home remedies that can help alleviate your symptoms. Sitz baths (soaking the affected area in warm water for 10-15 minutes) can soothe anal tissues and decrease pain and discomfort. Oils and creams may also be good options for early-stage hemorrhoids, such as witch hazel ointment or witch hazel hemorrhoidal pads.

    If symptoms do not clear up (or become worse) despite home treatment efforts, make sure to see a doctor for a full examination and advanced treatment method.

    Posted in anal abscesses, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    What are the Best Treatments for Hemorrhoids? | Minneapolis & St Paul

    The term “hemorrhoid” has been used to refer to both normal anatomic tissue and pathologic structure. Hemorrhoid diseases are swollen and varicose blood vessels in the lower rectum. They are among the most common causes of anal complaints in the office visits.

    Hemorrhoids diseases include internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, anal tags, thrombosis of hemorrhoids and mixed hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are graded from I to IV based on the degree of prolapse. Besides causing anal itching, pain, bleeding and prolapse, hemorrhoids could cause other complications, such as thrombosis, anemia, and infection. Moreover, many hemorrhoid patients have a comorbidity of anal fissure, fistula, or anal warts. Because no single treatment modality can fix all hemorrhoids, a true hemorrhoid clinic will offer multiple treatment modalities and options to meet a patient’s specific needs and provide complete care.

    If you are treated with single modality for your hemorrhoids, regardless of the severity, type of hemorrhoids, and associated anorectal conditions, it leads to poor results because of poor quality care.

    Internal hemorrhoid Grade 1
    Very early hemorrhoids can often be effectively dealt with by dietary and lifestyle changes. The lifestyle changes should also be part of the treatment plan for more advanced hemorrhoids.
    1. Eating plenty of high-fiber foods
    2. Drinking plenty of fluids
    3. Keeping stool soft
    4. Good toilet habits
    5. Doing exercise regularly, but avoid heavy lifting
    6. Reducing weight

    Internal hemorrhoid Grade 1-2
    Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a non-surgical treatment that is fast, well tolerated, and remarkably complication-free. The infrared light quickly coagulates the vessels that provide the hemorrhoid with blood, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink and recede.

    Internal hemorrhoid Grade 3
    The third grade internal hemorrhoids can be treated with the combination of infrared coagulation and rubber band ligation (banding). Rubber band ligation is widely used for the treatment of more advanced (more prolapsed) internal hemorrhoids where the prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue is pulled into a double-sleeved cylinder to allow the placement of rubber bands around the tissue. Over time, the ligated tissue dies off. Rubber band ligation downgrades the hemorrhoids to grade 1 or 2, so some patients may need to do Infra-Red Coagulation (IRC) treatments after rubber band ligation.

    Internal hemorrhoid Grade 4
    A hemorrhoidectomy surgically removes the tissue that causes bleeding or protrusion. It is done in a doctor’s office, surgical center, or hospital under anesthesia and may require a period of inactivity.

    External hemorrhoidal tags (anal tags)
    Small and asymptomatic tags don’t need any treatment. If symptomatic, anal tags can easily be removed in the office using a local anesthetic and a radiofrequency device.

    Thrombosed external hemorrhoids
    These hemorrhoids are typically treated with either incision to remove the clot or with external hemorrhoidectomy. Simply draining the clot usually relieves the pain immediately, but it may not work well if multiple thromboses exist as it can also lead to recurrence, so it is better for patients with multiple thromboses to completely excise the thrombosed hemorrhoids.

    External hemorrhoids
    Small and asymptomatic external hemorrhoids don’t need any treatment, however most patients will have an intermittent flare up. Eventually patients may need surgery (external hemorrhoidectomy) if you have large external hemorrhoids and/or persistent symptomatic external hemorrhoids.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid banding, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, Infrared Coagulation, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Four Cardinal Symptoms of Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    Although hemorrhoidal symptoms and complaints are common and typically not a serious concern, all patients should be examined for signs of possible cancer and other associated diseases. There are four cardinal symptoms of hemorrhoids, including rectal pain, bleeding, anal itching, and rectal mass or lump.

    Anal Itching
    Anal itching is the most common complaint in the hemorrhoid patients. It often comes and goes. The initial relief of the itching does not necessarily mean the problem goes away. Continuous scratching or excessive cleaning of the anal area may further harm the sensitive tissues and worsen symptoms. In addition, the area can be highly sensitive to perfumes, soaps, fabrics, dietary intake and superficial trauma. When chronic itching occurs, the perianal area becomes white with fine fissures.

    Treatments for anal itching include taking antihistamine as a sedative prior to sleeping to prevent the patient from unconsciously scratching, or using a topical corticosteroid to alleviate the itching. Underlying hemorrhoids and other rectal diseases must be considered and treated when diagnosing and treating anal itching.

    Anal pain
    Anal pain is a common sign of hemorrhoids. The patients with hemorrhodis often complain the aching pain, irritating pain, and spasmodic pain. If the hemorrhoid patient also has anal fissure, sharp pain may occur during intense, forced bowel movements that are often accompanied by rectal bleeding. Immediate onsets of intense pain accompanied by a palpable mass are usually a result of an external thrombosed hemorrhoid, which may last a few days to a couple of weeks. Internal hemorrhoids, however, are not very painful due to being located above the dentate line of the rectum.

    Proctalgia fugax is a more serious anal pain condition that involves short spasms of intense pain at night. Hemorrhoids could be its trigger or cause.

    Rectal Lump
    A palpable anal lumps can be caused by a variety of conditions including anal warts, hemorrhoids, polyps, fissures, or cancer.

    Hemorrhoids are probably the most common reason for having a rectal lump. It can be caused by internal hemorrhoids, but more commonly by external hemorrhoids. If a rectal lump is related to internal hemorrhoids, it usually gets bigger and more prolapsed right after the bowel movement; it could be spontaneously reduced in the early stage of internal hemorrhoids. But it could be non-reducible in the late stage of hemorrhoids.

    The thrombosed external hemorrhoids often cause very painful, bluish anal lumps when the hemorrhoidal veins rupture and the blood clots develop.

    Rectal bleeding
    Rectal bleeding can be caused by hemorrhoids and other conditions, but even the slightest amount of bleeding should be taken seriously. Common causes of bleeding are internal hemorrhoids, ruptured thrombosed external hemorrhoids, fissures, diverticulosis, colon cancer, colitis, polyps and angiodysplasias. Patients of older age or with significant family history of bowel disease or cancer should consider further examination. In addition, patients who were previously treated for rectal bleeding but continued to experience bleeding must be further examined.

    The source of rectal bleeding is determined by history, physical examination and blood tests, assisted with anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, radionuclide scans, and angiograms.

    Posted in Anal itching, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, Rectal bleeding, rectal lump, rectal pain | Tagged Tagged , , , , , ,

    Find a Qualified Hemorrhoid Doctor | Minnesota

    A hemorrhoid is a common illness that numerous Minnesotans suffer from. If you suffer from hemorrhoids, the good news is that the symptoms of mild hemorrhoids usually improve on their own with at-home treatments. But what if they get to the point where you need to see a doctor for an evaluation or treat them? How do you choose where to go and what doctor is right for you?
    Here’s what you should know about finding the right hemorrhoid doctor for you:

    The hemorrhoid procedures are usually conducted by colorectal surgeons, general surgeons, and family physicians. Here are some tips to help find a qualified doctor who can provide hemorrhoid care.

    1. Check doctors’ credentials; besides basic medical credentials, the most important questions you need to ask are:

  • How many hemorrhoid procedures does the doctor performs every week?
  • How many years has the doctor been providing hemorrhoid care?
  • Does the doctor provide complete hemorrhoid care by offering all available hemorrhoid procedures such as IRC, banding and surgeries?
  • What is the complication rate?
  • Does the doctor offer the convenient and alternative hemorrhoid care delivery system?

    • Experience matters.

    2. You may ask if the doctor uses any newer non-surgical technologies or surgical techniques. It makes a big difference in many aspects between the combined non-surgical and surgical approach and traditional hemorrhoidectomy only approach since not every patient needs hemorrhoidectomy. Some family doctors offer hemorrhoid cream only and other surgeons offer hemorrhoidectomy only. In fact, hemorrhoid care should be based on the severity of hemorrhoids, and the treatment plan should be customized based on each patient’s needs.

    3. There are a multitude of sources that offer information on hemorrhoid doctors in a patient’s area. These include Google searches, insurance companies, and primary-care doctors. If the patient knows any friends, family members and colleagues who have had hemorrhoid treatment, ask them about their personal experience with that particular hemorrhoid doctor and clinic. This information may be more in-depth, and can also provide the patient with a better understanding of the whole process of hemorrhoid care and what to expect.

    4. Once a number of hemorrhoid doctors have been identified, try to find out more about them. While credentials and clinical experience are important to consider, there are also practical considerations to take into account. These factors indirectly indicate how much the doctors are committed to hemorrhoid care and quality of hemorrhoid care.

    a. You should review their website to see if:

  • It is an informative and well-designed website
  • The contents are frequently updated
  • There is a user friendly online registration.
  • It is a dynamic website with ongoing blog posting
  • There are positive testimonials. There is a big difference in the evaluation of patient satisfaction between a few outdated testimonials and hundreds of recent testimonials.

    • b. If the price is affordable, ask about the total cost.

    c. You should find the whole hemorrhoid care system to be a friendly and patient-oriented service. For example, One Stop Medical Center offers the Easy Hemorrhoid Care with one trip care system.

    d. Consider the office location and convenience.

    e. Evaluate the quality of customer service: how the patient is treated on the phone during inquires, the cleanliness of the office, the attitudes of the staff during initial contacting, the level of the procedure room (simple office room or higher level of Surgicenter), and other less-tangible measurements should also influence your decision.

    Posted in Easy Hemorrhoid Care, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

    Do I have Internal or External Hemorrhoids? | Minnesota

    You’re might be reading this because you saw blood on your toilet paper. Or maybe it was because it’s so itchy down there and it makes your life a living hell in public, or even worse- it hurts when you have a bowel movement. Well, you and 75% of the population are or will be wondering the same thing. Most likely, you have hemorrhoids.

    Now, you probably want to know more about them. It’s your body, after all. Essentially, there are three types of hemorrhoids – internal, external, and mixed, which are usually the result of intrinsic weakness of local hemorrhoid tissue with other factors, including excessive or prolonged straining, pregnancy, constipation, heavy lifting, or just unfortunate genetics.
    Internal hemorrhoids form above the dentate line, while external hemorrhoids form below the dentate line. Mixed hemorrhoids can either refer to lesions formed at the dentate line, or to the presence of both internal and external hemorrhoids. Luckily, all of them can be treated fairly easily in a clinical setting.

    External Hemorrhoids
    External hemorrhoids are pretty easy to figure out when you feel bulges or bumps around the anus. It usually affects the cleansing after the bowel movement and cause the skin irritation and itching. The thrombosed external hemorrhoids occur if the varicose veins rupture and the blood clots develop, it is often accompanied by severe pain and swelling. Lots of people can self-diagnose external hemorrhoids, but a doctor’s visit is required to make sure since there are several other medical conditions look similar to external hemorrhoids, such as anal warts, sentinel pile of anal fissure, anal polyp and anal cancer.

    Internal Hemorrhoids
    Internal hemorrhoids, while not as apparent as external hemorrhoids, are far more common. It is the root cause of hemorrhoid disease. In fact, they are so common that 100% of the population has them. Normal hemorrhoidal tissue is actually a physical part of your body, not an affliction. They only become a problem once the connective tissue around it weakens and the veins become swollen.

    For many, the only sign of internal hemorrhoids might be bleeding. As the hemorrhoid grows, it may become prolapsed, which is certainly not a pretty sight. This means the hemorrhoid is bulging out of the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids will be pretty obvious and can be painful and itchy. They can often be pushed back in manually if they aren’t too big. Note that external hemorrhoids and internal prolapsed hemorrhoids are not the same thing, but many patients with external hemorrhoids also have internal hemorrhoids, and your doctor will be able to tell you which it is if you aren’t sure.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

    Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a fast and effective non-surgical solution for hemorrhoid treatment!

    A hemorrhoid is a common illness that numerous Minnesotans suffer from. Approximately three out of four people will develop hemorrhoids at some time in their lives. While many people associate hemorrhoid treatments with painful surgery, only a small percentage of hemorrhoid patients actually require hemorrhoidectomy. A fast and simple non-surgical office procedure has taken the fear out of hemorrhoid treatments. The majority of hemorrhoid patients in Minnesota are good candidates for non-surgical Infrared coagulation (IRC) treatments.

    What is Infrared Coagulation (IRC)?
    IRC is a FDA approved office procedure that uses infrared light to treat symptomatic internal hemorrhoids, and it takes just a couple of minutes for each treatment. IRC is a safe, fast, and effective solution for hemorrhoids. Therefore, IRC has quickly become the most widely used office procedure for hemorrhoid clinics and is preferred over other methods because it is fast, effective, well-tolerated by patients, and rarely has complications.

    A small light probe contacts the area above the hemorrhoid complex under direct view, exposing the tissue to a burst of infrared light for about 1.5 second. This coagulates the veins above the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
    With IRC, hemorrhoid doctor can effectively coagulate the insensitive area right above the hemorrhoids and destroy these small veins. In this way, the sensitive and painful area is avoided, and IRC becomes a very tolerable treatment.

    IRC offers major advantages to patients over previous hemorrhoid treatment methods:

    • Fast, simple, and safe solution
    • No anesthesia required
    • No special preparation needed
    • No recovery time after treatment
    • Clinically proven results
    • Covered by all major insurance companies

    Who are the Best Candidates for Infrared Coagulation (IRC)?
    Infrared coagulation can be used to treat the early stages of hemorrhoids, and it is most effective in grade 1-2 hemorrhoids.

    How is Infrared Coagulation Procedure Performed?
    Before IRC procedure is performed, Dr. Shu gently inserts the anoscope (a very short, 3-4 inch rigid metal tube), then uses a handheld device that creates an intense beam of infrared light to touch the mucosa above the hemorrhoids, exposing the hemorrhoid tissue to a quick pulse of infrared light. The heat from the infrared light burns 4-5 spots in the targeted area, coagulating the vein above the hemorrhoids.

    The resulting scar tissue cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid venous complex. This causes the hemorrhoid complex to shrink and die. It may take a few weeks for all the hemorrhoids to shrink completely. Moreover, the scar tissue acts to hold nearby hemorrhoid veins in place so they don’t bulge into the anal canal easily and become hemorrhoids as you age.

    Each IRC treatment only takes a couple of minutes. You may need as many as four separate treatment sessions every two weeks to cover all the areas where hemorrhoids appear, but this depends on each individual case and how extensive your hemorrhoids are.

    What is the Recovery Time of Infrared Coagulation Procedure?
    After the IRC procedure, you may feel mild discomfort in the anus and the urge to have a bowel movement sometimes. You are able to resume normal everyday activities immediately afterward. Typically, there are no post-treatment effects. However, there may be slight spot bleeding a few days later, but heavy rectal bleeding is extremely rare. Avoid heavy straining, lifting, and aspirin. If you notice significant rectal bleeding, you should call your doctor’s office.

    You may use Tylenol as needed and take a warm sitz bath daily to relieve discomfort. A stool softener, fiber, and water will help ease your bowel movement while you heal.

    Posted in Easy Hemorrhoid Care, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , ,

    The Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ (EHC) | Minnesota

    One Stop Medical Center invites you to experience an elevated level of care for your hemorrhoid treatments, with Minnesota’s first ever Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ Experience.

    For nearly 20 years, Dr.Steven Shu has been providing exceptional hemorrhoid care utilizing the state-of-the-art medical techniques and technology available. Now he and his team offer Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ , a new care delivery system for hemorrhoid treatment with minimal invasive procedures, including Infrared Coagulation (IRC), rubber band ligation, and modified hemorrhoidectomy. It is an efficient system that requires only one trip. We provide patients a new experience in hemorrhoid care, from procedure through recovery. These advancements reduce discomfort, time, decrease the chance of complication and reduce the total recovery time.

    For the first time in Minnesota, a personalized approach to meet your specific hemorrhoid care requirements is now available! The Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ Experience has been designed to take the stress and worry out of your hemorrhoid treatment. This package provides the most comfortable and seamless hemorrhoid care experience possible, with enhanced, customized hemorrhoid care, saving you precious time in your busy schedule.

    Benefits of the Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ (EHC)
    In the standard hemorrhoid care, the patients with hemorrhoids require multiple office visits with Infrared Coagulation and/or rubber banding ligation for their internal hemorrhoid treatments, followed by external hemorrhoidectomy and/or excision of anal hemorrhoids. It is a long process, but it is usually covered by your medical insurance.

    The Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ (EHC) is a specially designed hemorrhoid care delivery system that aims to shorten the whole process of hemorrhoid treatment, to reduce discomfort, the chance of complications, and total recovery time. Patients are given Botox during the procedure to relax anal sphincter muscles, reducing post procedural pain. It is an efficient system that requires only one trip where you receive premium medical care, but it is not covered by your insurance.

    To learn more about our Easy Hemorrhoid Care™ Experience in One Stop Medical Center, please contact us by calling at 952-922-2151 or email at info@shuMD.com.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    Normal Things that Can Give You Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    There are few things more annoying than suffering from hemorrhoids. Even with Grade I hemorrhoids, you will usually find out when there’s blood on their toilet paper or occasional itching and irritation around anus. God forbid it becomes Grade IV mixed hemorrhoid. It’s ghastly sight. Who wants to see that? You notice the blood and feel the itch, as well as mild anxiety- you look up the symptoms, and WebMD tells you that you probably have hemorrhoids. Then you have to pretend like you don’t have a itchy swollen bleeding vein in your rectum while you talk to your coworkers. And you’ll wonder: what did I do to deserve this?

    Well, a lot of things. You’re probably doing one of them right now. Old habits die hard, or give you hemorrhoids. Here’s a list of everyday things that are actually giving hemorrhoids:

    Straining too hard/long- Your colon and rectum can only take so much straining while you relieve yourself. This is usually because of constipation or diarrhea, or because you had eyes glued to your phone for 25 minutes. Eat your beans and keep trips to the bathroom short.

    Weight/pregnancy- Putting on weight of any kind is going to put pressure on your rectum. And, for those who are overweight, diet and aerobic exercise will help keep you in shape and prevent hemorrhoids.

    Lifting too hard/long- If your job often requires heavy lifting, or you never figured out how to deadlift correctly, the physical strain can injure your rectum and give you hemorrhoids.
    Being born- Unfortunately, some people are just more genetically inclined to get hemorrhoids. For whatever reason, God decided you were gonna have weak easily-swollen veins that’ll start bleeding at 27.

    Thankfully with modern medical technologies like IRC and old, but reliable rubber band ligation and surgical excision, and an ever growing understanding of hemorrhoids, even those destined to have an itchy rectum can still have a normal, nuisance-free existence.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

    The Combined Modalities Achieve the Best Result in the Treatment of Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    Hemorrhoids diseases begin internally, then external hemorrhoids develop when the internal hemorrhoids get worse over a period of time. Internal hemorrhoids are graded from I to IV based on the degree of prolapse. Because no single treatment modality can fix all hemorrhoids, a true hemorrhoid clinic will offer multiple treatment modalities and options to meet a patient’s needs and provide complete care.

    If you are treated with a single modality for your hemorrhoids, regardless of the severity, type of hemorrhoids, and associated anorectal conditions, it leads to poor results because of poor quality care. Based on his hemorrhoid treatment experience for the past 20 years, Dr. Shu developed a practical and effective treatment strategy based on the severity of hemorrhoids.

    For example, if you have to push the prolapsed hemorrhoids back with your finger after bowel movements, it suggests you may have grade three internal hemorrhoids. Dr. Shu will perform rubber band ligation one to three times to downgrade your hemorrhoids from grade three to grade one to two, then he will perform infrared coagulation to further treat the remaining hemorrhoids. The result of the combination treatments is much better than that of either single modality.

    Rubber band ligation is widely used for the treatment of more advanced (more prolapsed) internal hemorrhoids where the prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue is pulled into a double-sleeved cylinder to allow for the placement of rubber bands around the tissue. Over time, the ligated tissue dies off.

    Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a non-surgical treatment that is fast, well tolerated, and remarkably complication-free. An infrared light quickly coagulates the vessels that provide the hemorrhoid with blood, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink and recede.

    Dietary and lifestyle changes should also be part of the treatment plan for more advanced hemorrhoids.

    If you have grade four internal hemorrhoids, large external hemorrhoids and/or persistent symptomatic external hemorrhoids, you may need surgery (external hemorrhoidectomy) to have them removed.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

    The Elephant Foot Yam: a Potential Future Hemorrhoid Treatment? | Minnesota

    Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, or the elephant foot yam, when cut in half, looks exactly like it’s described: an elephant foot. While it’s not a pretty looking root, there may be more than meets the eye with this humble looking root. Basically, the elephant foot yam is this wide-spread vegetable is grown in places in Africa, Southeast Asia, and tropical Pacific islands. It’s almost unheard of in America for the most part, but in the areas it is cultivated, such as India, it is often fried or cooked into delicious curries.

    However, not only is it prized for its subtle, mild, taste, but it’s also coveted for its medicinal effects by those who study alternative and traditional medicine. Like many health superfoods it has a reputation for being a cure-all, with a wide variety of positive health benefits ranging from lowering cholesterol to treating diabetes to “detoxification”. While some of these unsubstantiated claims might make you roll your eyes, don’t dismiss the elephant root yam just yet- when it comes to hemorrhoids, research suggests that yam could be answer.

    A recent paper from the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute suggests that extracts of the Amorphophallus paeoniifolius tuber could be effective in treating hemorrhoids. In the paper, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, researchers searching for potential new drugs induced hemorrhoids in rats using croton oil, a foul smelling oil made from the seeds of the Asian croton tree. Once the rats had developed hemorrhoids, indicated by the inflamed tissue and the presence of blue dyes added by the researchers, they administered various kinds of extracts of the root as well as normal hemorrhoid medication from the drugstore. The results were quite interesting- the root resulted in reductions in hemorrhoid size and inflammation comparable to that of the medication. There was a clear healing effect observed, as the control group with no medication saw no reductions in hemorrhoid size or inflammation.

    Of course, there is a long way to go before a marketable drug or even clinical testing on humans is possible, but this study could certainly result in lot of interesting follow up research. While the mechanism of how the tuber’s healing effects are not exactly known, an analysis of the compounds within the tuber give some hints as to what the secret of the tuber is. Various flavonoids and phenolic compounds were found that could potentially explain the root’s anti-inflammatory and curative effects on hemorrhoids. While no one should be holding their breath waiting for a miracle hemorrhoid drug coming anytime soon, these studies show the enormous potential of this native plant and sheds light on an interesting and uncommon medical field. In the meantime, make sure you get enough daily fiber.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

    Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy | Minensota

    Hemorrhoids are very common complaints during pregnancy. It afflicts 20 to 50 percent of all pregnant women in Minnesota. Pregnancy changes your body in more ways than you might think. Why does pregnancy make women more prone to hemorrhoids? There are several reasons on it.

    1. Hemorrhoids are a type of venous disease similar to varicose veins; it is surely not perfect designing in its anatomy and physiology with intrinsic defects.

    2. The enlarging uterus plus increased blood flow put pressure on the pelvic veins and other large veins that increases the pressure on the veins and causes them to become more dilated.

    3. Constipation is another common problem during pregnancy, which can also aggravate hemorrhoids due to the straining.

    4. An increase in progesterone hormone during pregnancy causes the walls of hemorrhoidal veins to relax, allowing them to swell more easily. Moreover, progesterone slows down women’s digestive tract and contributes to constipation.

    5. The pushing process involved in labor also makes the existing hemorrhoids worse.

    Many women in the Minneapolis and St Paul areas develop the new hemorrhoids during their pregnancy; others have the preexisting hemorrhoids even before they get pregnant. Some women get them in the first pregnant, others get recurrent hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids usually get worse in the third trimester, right after labor pushing or if you develop constipation.

    The typical hemorrhoids symptoms during pregnancy are anal itching, rectal bleeding, pain, and bulging out. The good news is that hemorrhoids will begin to improve soon after giving birth.
    The most conservative hemorrhoid treatments are usually prescribed for hemorrhoids occurring during pregnancy and soon after childbirth. Local application of over-the-counter ointments, fiber supplements, Sitz bath and cold packs are often sufficient to relieve the symptoms. If the patients develop the hemorrhoid complications, commonly painful thrombosed external hemorrhoids, then the simple surgical procedure with incision and drainage is necessary to remove the blood clots and alleviate excoriating rectal pain. Occasionally, the limited external hemorrhoidectomy is needed in some severe cases.

    The patients are encouraged to see hemorrhoid doctors, family physicians or colorectal surgeons for hemorrhoid evaluation in 2-3 months after delivery if they have severe hemorrhoids during pregnancy or the symptoms linger even a few months after giving birth.

    The good thing is that minimally invasive hemorrhoid procedures, such as Infrared coagulation (IRC) and banding, can effectively treat most hemorrhoids without cutting or stapling to postpartum women. For the extensive or severe hemorrhoid cases that do not respond to conservative methods, hemorrhoidectomy is needed to remove them completely. Dr. Shu prefers to perform less invasive hemorrhoidectomy, not traditional hemorrhoidectomy, in combination with banding and IRC, The patients usually have good result with quicker recovery with this approach.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoidectomy, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    9 Tips for Recovering After Infrared Coagulation (IRC) Treatment of Hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    If you’re suffering from hemorrhoids, Infrared coagulation (IRC) is often an initial treatment of choice, especially for early stage of internal hemorrhoids. In this procedure, an intense infrared light heats the hemorrhoidal tissue, creating scar tissue that blocks blood supply to the hemorrhoid, which shrinks and dies.

    In general, IRC is a very safe office procedure that takes less than a minute in each treatment. It is relatively painless and no anesthesia or painful injections are needed. It produces very good results in the early stages of hemorrhoids with minimal complications and quick recovery. The recovery time after IRC treatment is minimal with very little pain or discomfort. It is important to take care of the rectal area after the IRC procedure to avoid a recurrence of the hemorrhoids. Here at the Procedure Clinic in Edina, MN, we offer the following tips on recovering from IRC treatments.

    1. Keep the area clean and dry. Do not wipe or rub vigorously.

    2. Take sitz bath in warm water for 15 min, twice a day and after every bowel movement. Sitz baths will help relieve discomfort and clean the area.

    3. Good toilet habits:
    a. Move your bowels as soon as you feel the urge.
    b. Do not strain, bear down, or hold your breath during a bowel movement.
    c. Do not sit on the toilet for long periods of time. If you cannot empty your bowel, you may re-visit the toilet at a later time.

    4. Avoid constipation and straining during bowel movements:
    a. You are encouraged to eat plenty of high-fiber foods, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise. The high fiber food includes vegetables , fruits, , beans, and whole grains.
    b. If your diet is lack of fiber, y can also take two tablespoons of any over the counter fiber supplement such as natural wheat bran, natural oat bran, flax, Benefiber with a lot of water.
    c. If you develop constipation with hard stool, you may use a stool softener with or without laxative.

    5. Do not stay seated for more than two hours. Do the muscle exercise by tightening your buttock muscles 10 times and take 10 deep breaths every a couple of hours.

    6. Avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.

    7. Do not drink alcohol or reduce alcohol intake.

    8. Apply hemorrhoid creams when the symptoms flair up.

    9. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

    When to Call Your Doctor
    Problems are not common with the IRC treatment. However, if there is a substantial amount of bleeding, severe pain, chills, fever or difficulty passing urine (very rare), you should call your doctor to seek medical attention.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

    History of Hemorrhoid Treatments | Minnesota

    Hemorrhoids may be one the oldest conditions known to man. Hemorrhoids is a condition that involves swelling and inflammation of the veins and other vessels surrounding the anal canal. It is surprisingly common, especially among adults above 40. Today, common methods of treatment include infrared coagulation, rubber band ligation, surgical excision, and classic methods of conservative treatments like topical drugs, diet, Sitz baths, etc. The first mention of hemorrhoids were found on Egyptian papyrus dated 1700 BC, which gives the following advice:

    “… an ointment of great protection; acacia leaves, ground, triturated and cooked together. Smear a strip of fine linen therewith and place in the anus, that he recovers immediately.”

    While it was a very archaic remedy, their thinking was not unsound. Acacia leaves have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may have helped relieve pain and swelling in hemorrhoids.

    In 460 BC, Hippocrates described what may be the first recorded surgical treatment of hemorrhoids.

    “And hemorrhoids in like manner you may treat by transfixing them with a needle and tying them with very thick and woolen thread, for application […] and always leave one behind; and when the patient recovers, let him be put on a course of Hellebore.”

    This is essentially a primitive form a rubber band ligation, in which a rubber band is used instead of thread. Hellebore was a poisonous plant used as a laxative by Hippocrates. Galen (AD 129-~AD 200), a famous Greek physician, suggested severing arteries from veins to relieve pain and prevent the spread of gangrene.

    In the Middle Ages, a common treatment in Europe involved cauterization of the hemorrhoid with a hot iron or cutting it with a sharp knife, and unpleasant and most likely excruciatingly painful procedure.

    In the 19th century, anal stretching was used as a treatment. In the US, Carbolic acid was injected into hemorrhoids. By the 20th century, more contemporary methods like rubber band ligation, hemorrhoidectomy, etc. became commonplace.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , ,

    Importance of Diet in the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids | Minnesota

    The importance of diet to the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids is often understated. Even for the most severe hemorrhoids, good diet is important for proper treatment and recovery. To prevent and manage hemorrhoids, one must ensure that they take in enough fiber. Fiber is interesting, as it’s not a nutrient in the same sense as minerals and vitamins are, but that doesn’t mean it’s not important. Most dieticians agree that Americans don’t eat enough fiber- the recommended amount is 32 grams per day. The average American doesn’t even come close at 15 grams a day. In fact, research shows that a whopping 97% of Americans do not meet the minimum nutritional standard.

    So what is fiber exactly?

    Fiber is a carbohydrate, the same class as starches, sugars, but are different because they are not digestible by the human body. Fiber regulates your body’s sugar intake, and keep hunger and blood sugar in check.

    Fiber comes in two varieties, soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber can be dissolved in water, lowers glucose levels, maintains blood cholesterol, and most importantly, ensures passage of stool without constipation thanks to its water-absorbing properties. It’s contained in barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, etc. Insoluble fiber is found in wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to stool, which helps food pass quickly through the intestines. It’s what your grandmother might have called “roughage”. It’s the tough parts in stalks, stems, and seeds. The positive effects of fiber on your digestive system help prevent and manage the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

    What are good foods for fiber?

    Beans, lentils, and nuts all contain large amounts of fiber. Just a half cup of beans will have about 7-10 grams of fiber, about a third of your daily minimum, containing a mixture of soluble and insoluble fibers. Beans are fairly cheap, as well as a good source of protein. Almonds and pecans have around 3 grams of fiber per half cup, as does edamame.

    Grains are another great source. Look for whole-grain items as opposed to the white variety. Bread, pasta, and crackers made from flours, buckwheat, cornmeal, or rye will contain insoluble fiber. Oats and barley will also contain fiber. Lots of cereals have fiber, either naturally or added artificially- fiber containing cereal is a good way to start the day!

    Fruit and vegetables contain loads of fiber, and also have many other nutritional benefits.

    Plant foods with skin contain insoluble fiber as well as flavonoids that help control intestinal bleeding. Fruit with lots of colour and darker vegetables contain a lot of fiber. Adding fruit to cereal, apples to salad, spinach with eggs, or zucchini in spagheti are great ways to add fiber.

    Posted in External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid prevention, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

    Effective Non-surgical Treatment Protocol | Minnesota

    The effective Non-surgical Treatment Protocol we use is based on 17 Years Clinic Experience and About 3000 Hemorrhoids Cases with More Than 10,000 Treatments. It takes out your fear of hemorrhoid treatment!

    Infrared coagulation (IRC) and rubber band ligation (banding) of hemorrhoids are fast and effective non-surgical solutions.

    While many people associate hemorrhoids with painful surgery, only a small percentage of patients actually require surgery. A fast and simple office procedure has taken the fear out of hemorrhoid treatment. The majority of hemorrhoids patients are good candidates for non-surgical treatments, or Infrared coagulation (IRC) and rubber band ligation (banding).

    Recently, we reviewed the hemorrhoid cases treated in the past 17 years. We accumulated extensive clinical experience on hemorrhoid treatments due to the vast numbers of hemorrhoid cases and treatments we did, which helped us to consistently refine the treatment protocols based the type of hemorrhoids and severity of hemorrhoids. Therefore, each patient can be offered with a customized treatment protocol with better results.

    The IRC and banding both are office-based procedures takes just a few minutes and uses infrared light or tiny rubber bands to treat symptomatic internal hemorrhoids. IRC has quickly become the most widely used office procedure for hemorrhoids and is preferred over other methods because it is fast, effective, well-tolerated by patients, and rarely has complications. IRC can be used to treat the early stages of hemorrhoids, and it is most effective in grade 1-2 hemorrhoids, and banding can be used to treat more advanced hemorrhoids, such as prolapsed grade 2-3 hemorrhoids.

    You may need as many as four separate treatment sessions every two weeks to cover all the areas where hemorrhoids appear, but this depends on each individual case and how extensive your hemorrhoids are.

    After the IRC or banding procedure, you may feel mild discomfort in the anus and the urge to have a bowel movement sometimes. You are able to resume normal everyday activities immediately afterward. Typically, there are no post-treatment effects. However, there may be slight spot bleeding a few days later, but heavy rectal bleeding is extremely rare. Avoid heavy straining, lifting, and aspirin. If you notice significant rectal bleeding, you should call your doctor’s office. You may use Tylenol as needed and take a warm sitz bath daily to relieve discomfort. A stool softener, fiber, and water will help ease your bowel movement while you heal.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatments, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

    Are You Going to the Bathroom the Wrong Way? | Minnesota

    According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 2.5 million people see a doctor for constipation a year and 75% will experience hemorrhoids someday. The average American will spend almost a year sitting on the toilet in their lifetime. Going to the bathroom’s is more important than people give it credit for. We’ve gotten used to our porcelain thrones and the pleasure of distracting ourselves with smart phones while we’re one them. But there might be more to this than a just a way to procrastinate- sitting on the toilet for an extended amount of time might not be good if you’re trying to avoid hemorrhoids.

    First of all, you should probably limit cell phone usage on the toilet. Besides being a little gross, sitting on the toilet is not good for bowel movements and can increases the chances of hemorrhoids in the future. Sitting during a bowel movement puts pressure on the anorectal area, irritating the veins in the bowels that cause hemorrhoids. In most places outside the US, squatting toilets are used, where there is no seat and one must squat over the toilet. This has been shown to be better for bowel movements and more natural. In America, products that keep your feet elevated while on the toilet try to achieve this natural squat position, though the efficacy of such a device is still being studied.

    Dietary fiber is also very important, in both soothing hemorrhoids and preventing them in the future. Fiber bulks stool ensures its smooth passage through the intestines. Dietary Guidelines recommend 25 grams of fiber for women under 50, and 35+ for men under 50. This is much more than the average person gets, and it’s imperative that people get an adequate amount of fiber in their diet. These bulking agents work better if you drink plenty of water every day (6-8 glasses of water daily). Diet and toilet habits are the best preventative measure for hemorrhoids.

    Posted in Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

    Why Are Infected Hemorrhoids So Rare? | Minnesota

    Have you ever noticed blood on the tissue after wiping too hard, or experienced bleeding due to hemorrhoids? Blood indicates the presence of a wound, fecal matter is obviously teeming with harmful bacteria, and most people in America do not use anything other than dry toilet paper to wipe. Yet, hemorrhoidal infections are incredibly rare, especially in healthy people.

    Why is this?
    First, it’s important to note the immune system is different in different parts of the body- the Immune system in the gut is very well adapted to prevent serious infection. Immune cells constantly “sample” bacteria in the gut and create antibodies that bind the proteins on surface of the bacteria which prevents them from passing through the epithelium (wall of cells lining the inside of the intestines). This keeps the bacteria inside the intestine and outside the body. This “scanning” of the bacteria is something unique to the gut; this does not occur on the skin or elsewhere.

    After a small tear in the epithelium occurs, there is an immediate inflammatory/clotting response around the broken blood vessels. This prevents the bacteria from spreading deeper into the surrounding tissue. The bacteria that do make it past that are met with a strong response. The antibodies marking the bacteria are used by the immune cells to target them, and not enough bacteria makes it through to cause a severe infection. The particular antibody used, known as “IgA” is non-inflammatory, which is why there are no symptoms typically associated with infection (swelling, pain, itching, etc).

    That said, this only applies to small tears and hemorrhoids- large tears and injuries increase the risk of infections. While rare, the risk of infection holds serious consequences and it is best not to delay treatment of hemorrhoids.

    Although the infection of hemorrhoids is rare, anorectal abscess is relatively common. Anorectal abscess is a different disease from hemorrhoids, and it is the result of infection of anal glands in the lining of the anal canal. Most perirectal abscesses form from obstruction of the anal gland crypts.

    Procedure Clinic can diagnose and treat both hemorrhoids and anal abscess at low cost and little down time.

    Posted in anal abscesses, External Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid, Hemorrhoid Care, hemorrhoid clinic, hemorrhoid doctor, Hemorrhoid treatment, Hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids | Tagged Tagged , , , , , , , , ,
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