Dr. Heartfield's Guide to Treating Hemorrhoids

Dr. Wesley R. Heartfield practices with Southern California Surgery Associates and specializes in the treatment of colorectal diseases.  Dr. Heartfield trained in general surgery at Baylor University Medical center and completed a fellowship in colorectal surgery at the University of Southern California.

"Many people who come to see me about their hemorrhoids are fearful that the treatment may be painful, even more so than the hemorrhoids themselves.  They are relieved once I explain the various non-surgical and surgical options we have for treatment.  Most of these treatments may be performed in the office with very little discomfort.”
- Dr. Wesley Heartfield, MD, FACS

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include bleeding, pain and protrusion of tissue.  Patients may feel a bump, or may only have painless bleeding.  Itching and mucous discharge are also common symptoms.  Women may develop painful and irritating hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Do You Need Treatment for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids in themselves are benign conditions that do not lead to cancer. They may, however, present problems for some people.  If a person has frequent bleeding from hemorrhoids, anemia or a low blood count may develop, and this can be quite serious.  Many patients come to my office complaining of hemorrhoids when in fact they have other anorectal diseases.  After a correct diagnosis is made, the various options for treatment can be considered.

What are your Options for Hemorrhoids Treatment?

In mild cases of hemorrhoids diet and lifestyle modifications may be enough to control the symptoms.  Treatments in the office include rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy.  These procedures are done quickly with very little discomfort.  For patients with more advanced hemorrhoids, procedures in the day surgical suite may include excisional hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy.  It is important to note that the non-surgical and surgical treatment of hemorrhoids has progressed from the treatments offered fifteen or twenty years ago.  The options today are designed to minimize discomfort and reduce the recovery time so that patients can resume their normal activities more quickly.

Next Steps

If you are concerned that you may be suffering from hemorrhoids or any other anorectal condition I would encourage you to contact a physician immediately to help you determine a course of action.  I am currently accepting new patients and invite you to request an appointment via our website or call our office.  A member of our staff will follow up with you to confirm the appointment.