How do I know if I have hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoid symptoms include rectal bleeding, pain, itching, constipation, and sometimes protrusion or prolapse of the hemorrhoid. Rectal bleeding may be a symptom of other anal-rectal disorders and it is important to bring these symptoms to your physician’s attention when they occur. Now there is an established and effective non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment available with a procedure called IRC (Infrared Coagulation). It is well tolerated (producing little, if any, discomfort) and requires no anesthesia.
What is a hemorrhoid?
A hemorrhoid is a group of blood vessels within the rectal canal which have become swollen or inflamed due to an increase in venous pressure (see picture). The picture below demonstrates two types of hemorrhoids; internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. Most long-term hemorrhoid symptoms include burning, itching, bleeding and pain. External hemorrhoids can cause bleeding and itching when irritated but can also be asymptomatic except when they have just recently occurred - when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid, the pain is
acute and significant.
What is IRC (Infrared Coagulation)?
Several recent medical peer review journals recommend IRC as superior and preferred over other hemorrhoid treatment methods because it is fast, well tolerated by patients, and virtually problem free. A small probe contacts the area above the hemorrhoid , exposing the tissue to a short burst of infrared light which lasts about one second. This coagulates the vascular tissue above the hemorrhoid causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and recede. The patient may feel a slight sensation of heat but it is generally not painful, therefore, in most cases anesthesia is not required.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Treatment with IRC is painless, safe, and effective. Before treatment, your physician will conduct a routine external and internal examination to chart your hemorrhoid disease and to ensure that there is no other disease responsible for your symptoms. This examination takes only a few minutes.
Will I be able to have a normal bowel movement with IRC?
The treatment itself will not interfere with bowel movements. As hemorrhoids are reduced by IRC treatment, constipation is reduced or eliminated, where it was caused by hemorrhoids.
How long is the procedure?
Generally, an IRC treatment requires only about ten minutes, however, treatment time depends on the severity of the hemorrhoid being treated and your comfort level.
How many treatments are required?
Patients are evaluated on a case by case basis. Your physician will determine how many visits are required based on your examination. Most patients require about 2 to 3 treatments per hemorrhoid at 1 week intervals.
Can I be treated if my hemorrhoid is actively bleeding?
Yes. In many cases the first treatment will begin reducing your symptoms.
Can I be treated with IRC if I am on medication?
In most cases yes, but you must inform the physician of the medication you are taking. He will advise you accordingly.
What must I do after the procedure?
You can continue with your usual activities, even on the day of treatment, however, it is always recommended that you add high-fiber foods and/or fiber supplements to your diet along with proper fluid intake.
Does Insurance Cover IRC?
In the vast majority of cases, IRC is covered by insurance. Call our Denver office at 303-469-7300 and our staff will verify your insurance coverage for our services prior to your appointment. If you are in Southern Colorado/Colorado Springs please call 719-634-6700.
What is IRC (Infrared Coagulation)?