A doctor can determine if you have external haemorrhoids, by simply looking. However, with internal haemorrhoids, diagnosis is through specialized tests, such as DRE (Digital Rectal Exams) where a doctor inserts a gloved lubricated finger into your rectum to ascertain whether there is any unusual growth. This can provide a basis as to whether or not further testing is required. A doctor may also examine the lower portion of your colon or rectum using a sigmoidoscope, an anoscope, or a protoscope, because internal haemorrhoids are at times difficult to see in a rectal exam. These scopes allow the doctor to see into your anus and/or rectum.

Treatment of Piles

The treatment for haemorrhoids will usually depend on the location and severity of the condition. Some of the common treatment options include:

Creams: There are numerous creams available in the market for treating both internal and external haemorrhoids. These creams can be obtained with, or without a prescription.

Surgery: Haemorrhoidal surgery, also known as haemorroidectomy is only recommended in extreme cases. If the haemorrhoids are mild, there is the option of injecting medicine into the mucous membranes, which are close to the haemorrhoids and this will help shrink the piles and its blood vessels. There is also a non-invasive form of surgery available, which involves only internal stitches beneath the arteries, and this stops blood flow to the haemorrhoids, especially when there is rectal bleeding. This is done using specialized devices such as a Doppler ultrasound flow meter or a protoscope. 

Haemorrhoidolysis: In this method, therapeutic galvanic waves are applied directly to the haemorrhoids. This in turn produces a chemical reaction, which eventually will shrink and dissolve the haemorroidal tissue. It is found to be highly effective on internal haemorrhoids. 

Rubberband ligation: With this method, the haemorrhoidal tissue is pulled into a double-sleeved cylinder. A tight rubber band is then placed over it to check the blood flow. Usually, the bands fall off within a week, and are disposed of during bowel movements. This procedure is widely used since it is affordable. 

Infrared coagulation: This method is used for treating internal haemorrhoids. As the name suggests, it uses infrared waves for the treatment of the haemorrhoids, and is particularly effective in the case of bleeding. Usually the entire procedure lasts about ten minutes and ensures a speedy and painless recovery for the patients. 

Bipolar coagulation: With this method, bipolar electro-therapy is applied for treatment of internal haemorrhoids. It has a directed coagulation effect upon the mucous of the membranes close to the haemorrhoids. It is a non-evasive procedure that is effective in reducing inflammation.

Use of Home Remedies

 

For patients whose symptoms are not so severe, home remedies are also available for the treatment of haemorrhoids. Home remedies can actually lead to general improvement in the patients overall health and wellness. Natural remedies that can be followed within the familiarity of home include eating a balanced diet that is rich in fiber, taking warm baths as well as avoiding foods that are very spicy and hot such as pickles. The application of aloe Vera gel directly onto the anus relieves pain as well as itching that can be caused by the haemorrhoids.