Hemorrhoids are no fun. They cause itchiness, discomfort, and bleeding. About 15 million Americans have hemorrhoids—many are over the age of 50.
How do we get hemorrhoids?
The veins in the anal area can stretch when they are under pressure, causing them to bulge or swell. This can be due to pregnancy, obesity, chronic diarrhea or constipation, or anal intercourse.
Infrared coagulation (IFC) for hemorrhoids: What is that?
Infrared coagulation or IFC is a minimally-invasive procedure for treating small to medium-sized hemorrhoids.
The treatment, which is for internal hemorrhoids, uses a device that creates an intense beam of infrared light. It’s the heat from this light energy that causes a scar tissue, which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. The hemorrhoid ‘dies’ and forms a scar on the wall of the anal canal.
Our specialists at Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville want you to know that this procedure can be done in 10 minutes or less..Depending on the severity and location of the hemorrhoid, 3 to 4 treatments given a month apart, are normally recommended.
Does IFC have side effects?
It’s normal to feel an urge to have a bowel movement or sensation of fullness in the lower abdominal area after the procedure. These effects are temporary.
There may also be some mild discomfort after the procedure, which you can alleviate it by taking over-the-counter pain relievers or soaking in a sitz bath for 15 minutes.
You may also experience slight bleeding 7 to 10 days after IFC. This usually happens as the hemorrhoid dies and sluffs off.
At Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center, we offer infrared coagulation for hemorrhoids. Our dedicated hemorrhoid specialist can eliminate them in an office, in a short amount of time. Best of all, IFC treatment is covered by most insurance plans.
Don’t let uncomfortable hemorrhoids affect your quality of life. Schedule an appointment online today or call (865) 588-9952 .
References:
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw212815
https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw212815
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268