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Living with hemorrhoids can be painful. The itching, the burning, sometimes bleeding that come with this condition make daily activities harder. There are countless creams, ointments, and home remedies available that help for a while, but then the problem comes back. That is where Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) steps in as a modern, minimally invasive solution that offers relief without the challenges of major surgery.
In this guide, we will discuss what HAE is, its benefits, how the procedure works, and what life looks like afterward.
What is hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE)?
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization is a relatively new medical procedure in which doctors block the small arteries that feed blood to your hemorrhoids. It doesn’t involve cutting or removing tissue in the anal area.
By reducing the blood flow, the hemorrhoids shrink and symptoms like pain, bleeding, and swelling ease up significantly.
Benefits of hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE)
Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) treatment comes with several clear advantages that make it stand out.
- Less invasive treatment option
Traditional hemorrhoid surgeries, such as hemorrhoidectomy, involve cutting and removing tissue. They can be painful and require longer healing times. HAE uses a catheter inserted through a small artery in the wrist or groin. Patients typically experience less pain and discomfort afterward.
- Faster recovery
Most people dread the downtime that comes after surgery. The recovery from HAE is generally quick. Many patients can walk out of the clinic the same day and continue light activities.
- Lasting results
One of the biggest concerns with hemorrhoid treatments is whether the relief will last. As HAE treatment directly targets the arteries supplying blood to hemorrhoids, it provides long-term improvement in symptoms.
Studies have shown that many patients remain free from bothersome hemorrhoids for years after the procedure.
How is HAE performed?
Here is a simplified step-by-step explanation of how HAE is performed.
- Preparation: A mild sedative or anesthesia is used to help you relax.
- Catheter insertion: The doctor makes a tiny puncture in an artery
- Imaging guidance: Using X-ray imaging, the radiologist inserts a thin catheter into the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids.
- Blocking blood supply: Tiny particles are released through the catheter to block these arteries, cutting off the excess blood flow.
- Completion: Once blood flow is reduced, the hemorrhoids start shrinking naturally over time.
The whole process typically takes around an hour or two. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, you can usually go home on the same day.
Life after HAE
One of the most appealing things about HAE is how quickly patients can return to normal life. Symptoms like bleeding and swelling usually improve in the first couple of weeks. There can be some mild cramping or spotting, but that tends to fade with time.
The key to preventing hemorrhoids from coming back. It depends on your daily habits. A healthy lifestyle that includes a fiber-rich diet, proper hydration, regular exercise, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can make a big difference. HAE provides long-term results, but maintaining these habits reduces the chances of recurrence.
