Tired of Hemorrhoid Creams? Why Embolization May Be Your Answer

One in 20 people deals with bothersome hemorrhoids at some point. Internal hemorrhoids are the most common type.

Basically, varicose veins inside your rectum, internal hemorrhoids can cause anal bleeding, an itchy or painful lump protruding from your anus, mucus in your stool, and discomfort after bowel movements.

While over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams can reduce these symptoms, they aren’t always ideal or sufficient. Hemorrhoidal artery embolization provides a highly effective, longer-lasting alternative.

With his expert team at our Midtown Manhattan, New York, practice, double board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist Dr. Yosef Golowa specializes in hemorrhoidal artery embolization to bring relief without surgery.

Internal hemorrhoid risk factors

Anyone can develop internal hemorrhoids, but common risk factors include:

• Chronic coughing
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Inactivity
• Weight lifting
• Pregnancy

Older age or having a family history of internal hemorrhoids also increases your risk. If you’re prone to hemorrhoid symptoms, drinking alcohol or eating spicy foods may trigger them.

How hemorrhoid creams work

Hemorrhoid creams contain the active ingredients phenylephrine and praxomine. Phenylephrine narrows blood vessels to reduce discomfort and swelling. As a local anesthetic, pramoxine blocks or minimizes pain and itching. Other ingredients, like cocoa butter and mineral oil, may provide a protective barrier to reduce irritation. 

You apply hemorrhoid cream as directed, usually up to four times per day. Possible side effects include mild stinging sensations, headaches, a rapid heartbeat, and trouble sleeping.

Benefits of hemorrhoidal embolization (instead)

If you’re prone to hemorrhoid pain and want a long-lasting solution without going “under the knife,” hemorrhoidal embolization has a lot to offer. The nonsurgical treatment limits blood flow to internal hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink and stop bleeding.

This means:

• Fewer risks than surgery 
• A painless procedure
• Only about an hour in our office
• Minimal downtime (the rest of the day) for recovery
• A 95% success rate
• No more need to frequently apply cream or other treatments

While hemorrhoid recurrence might happen after embolization, steps like staying hydrated and eating enough fiber can safeguard you from flare-ups.

What happens during hemorrhoid embolization

During hemorrhoid embolization, Dr. Golowa inserts a thin catheter into a blood vessel. He then uses X-ray guidance to move the catheter to the affected artery, where he seals the ends with tiny gel particles or platinum coils (sometimes both).

Thanks to sedation, you won’t experience discomfort during the procedure. Any pain once the sedation wears off tends to be brief and mild. Afterward, you can go home and get back to most activities the next day.

To find out if you’re a candidate for hemorrhoidal embolization or get started with expert support, call our office today at 212-991-9991. You can also book an appointment with Dr. Golowa through our website.