Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
More than 50% of Americans will develop hemorrhoids at some point in their life. Not all people know they even have or suffer from hemorrhoidal disease. Therefore, there are a lot of questions surrounding hemorrhoidal disease and available treatment options. We, at HemWell America, have set out from day one to help educate and inform people about hemorrhoids and hemorrhoidal disease. By utilizing our treatment procedure, our staff is providing patients with one of most innovative, safest and effective healthcare solutions for hemorrhoidal disease.
1. What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are cushions of tissue containing swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum or around the anus. Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, bleeding, and sometimes severe pain.
2. What are the causes of hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are caused by too much pressure in the veins of the rectum, which can be the result of a variety of factors. Hemorrhoids can be linked to diet, constipation, diarrhea, obesity, pregnancy and childbirth, and even sitting for extended periods of time.
3. How do I know if what I have is a hemorrhoid, or something else?
There are other common anorectal conditions that present with symptoms similar to hemorrhoids. While hemorrhoids are the most common anorectal condition that affects millions of people each year, it is recommended that patients schedule a consultation with a trained board certified specialist who can properly diagnose and treat anorectal conditions.
4. How do I know if I have an internal or external hemorrhoid?
Patients can suffer from either internal or external or both. Treatment options vary, so it is important to talk with a trained healthcare provider and determine a proper treatment protocol.
5. How can I prevent hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can’t always be prevented, but you can reduce your chances by avoiding some of the main hemorrhoid causes, like constipation and heavy lifting. Whether you’ve had hemorrhoid treatment before or not, it’s a good idea to:
- Get enough fiber. Flax seed is a great option for fiber.
- Reduce your intake of high-fat, low-fiber foods, like red meat and dairy, which can cause constipation.
- Drink six glasses of water a day.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements. If unable to go, try again later.
- If you have extended periods of sitting, stay hydrated and eat fiber if possible.
6. Do hemorrhoids always require surgery?
Over 90% of internal hemorrhoids can be treated using conservative treatment options. The sooner you seek treatment for a hemorrhoid, the lower your chances of needing surgery will be.
7. How does the HemWell ligation treatment work?
A tiny rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off blood supply to the area. Within a few days, the banded tissue and band will shrink and fall off, usually without you noticing.
8. How many treatments are necessary?
Everyone has three hemorrhoid columns and most often, when one is affected, all three are affected. Generally speaking, a patient will require three treatments, with one band placed during each visit. Some patients may require an additional treatment if deemed necessary.
9. Does banding hurt?
No. With the procedure we use the band placement is painless and over 99% of patients experience no significant post-procedural pain.
10. Will I have to miss work or other activities?
You can typically return to work and resume your normal activities immediately following the procedure (but refrain from vigorous activity until the following day).
11. Will my insurance cover banding?
Most major insurance plans cover hemorrhoid banding (rubber band ligation). Call our office at 1-855-697-9355 for cost details, or refer to your specific insurance policy for copay information.
12. Can’t I just use an over-the-counter treatment, like Preparation H cream or Tuck pads?
You can use an over-the-counter treatment to help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms such as itching and swelling. However, these remedies don’t treat the cause of the hemorrhoid, and it is more likely that your symptoms will resurface eventually. For a long-term solution, a treatment like banding is likely your best option. The most important thing to remember is that hemorrhoids are a common affliction – most of us will experience symptomatic hemorrhoids at some point in our lives. You should never feel stressed or embarrassed about speaking to your healthcare provider, who can provide more detailed answers to all of the above questions, and any others you might have.
Fast & Effective
The procedure takes about 1 minute to perform and is 95% effective.
No Recovery Time
Most patients can resume normal activities the same day.
Painless
The procedure is painless and typically no pain medication is required after the procedure.
Covered by Insurance
The procedure is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
Call HemWell America at 855-697-9355 or complete the form below to schedule a consultation today with a board certified specialist.
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