Hemorrhoid Treatment Raleigh
A Modern, Non-Surgical Approach to Hemorrhoid Relief
Living with hemorrhoids can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and even embarrassing—but effective treatment doesn’t have to involve surgery. If you’re dealing with ongoing bleeding, irritation, or discomfort, it may be time to explore a more advanced solution.
At Champion Health System, we offer Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) for patients throughout North Carolina, including the Raleigh area. This innovative, image-guided procedure targets the source of hemorrhoids by reducing the blood flow that causes them to swell. The result is gradual shrinkage of the hemorrhoidal tissue and noticeable symptom relief—all without incisions or lengthy recovery.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids develop when veins in the lower rectum or around the anus become enlarged and irritated. They may form internally or externally and can vary in severity from mild discomfort to more persistent, painful symptoms.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Symptoms can appear intermittently or become more consistent over time. Common signs include:
- Bright red bleeding during bowel movements
- Discomfort or pressure when sitting
- Persistent itching or irritation
- Swelling near the anal area
- Tender lumps or protrusions
Difficulty maintaining hygiene in the area
Causes & Risk Factors
Hemorrhoids are typically linked to increased pressure in the rectal veins. Contributing factors often include:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods
- Pregnancy-related pressure
- Excess body weight
- Low dietary fiber intake
Natural changes with aging
What Happens if Hemorrhoids Are Left Untreated?
While hemorrhoids are common, ongoing symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. If left untreated, they can become more painful, bleed more frequently, and interfere with daily activities. They can cause anemia. Seeking care early can help prevent progression and improve overall comfort.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization:
A Modern Approach to Hemorrhoid Treatment
For patients who want to avoid surgery, Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) provides a modern, minimally invasive option to treat hemorrhoids at their source. The procedure is performed by highly trained specialists using advanced imaging to ensure precision and safety.
During the procedure, a highly trained specialist uses advanced imaging technology to guide a thin catheter through the wrist or groin to the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoids. Once the artery is identified, it is shut down by a combination of small particles and metal coils, permanently closing the source of blood to the hemorrhoid. This causes the hemorrhoids to shrink gradually and relieve symptoms over time.
Because HAE does not involve incisions or tissue removal, it helps patients avoid many of the risks, discomfort, and extended recovery associated with traditional hemorrhoid surgery.
The procedure is performed in our North Carolina outpatient clinics, so most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within just a few days.
Could HAE Be the Right Option for You?
HAE may be worth considering if:
- You experience ongoing hemorrhoid symptoms that affect your comfort
- Over-the-counter treatments or lifestyle changes haven’t worked
- You want to avoid surgical procedures or painful recovery
- Your symptoms are returning or worsening over time
- You’re looking for a treatment that fits into your routine with minimal disruption
- You have had banding or sclerotherapy and the hemorrhoids have returned
Our team will review your symptoms, medical background, and imaging to determine whether this approach is appropriate for your situation.
Benefits of Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization
Rather than removing hemorrhoids, HAE focuses on reducing the underlying blood flow that causes them to enlarge. This approach allows the body to naturally resolve the issue over time.
After treatment, many patients experience meaningful improvements in comfort and daily life, including:
- Less bleeding during and after bowel movements
- Reduced swelling and irritation
- Greater comfort when sitting or moving throughout the day
- Gradual but lasting symptom improvement
- Avoidance of embarrassing soiling of underwear or clothes
Because the procedure is performed without major surgery, recovery is typically quicker and less disruptive to daily life.
Compare Your Treatment Options
|
HAE |
Hemorrhoid Surgery | Conservative Care | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach |
Image-guided |
Surgical removal | Symptom management |
| Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
Invasive | Non-invasive |
| Recovery Time |
Short (days) |
Extended (weeks) | Ongoing |
| Hospital Stay |
No |
Often required | No |
| Pain Level |
Typically low |
Moderate to high | Low |
| Long-Term Relief |
Yes |
Yes | Often temporary |
Expert Hemorrhoid Care in Raleigh
Champion Health System is committed to making advanced care more accessible and comfortable. We provide specialized, minimally invasive treatments in an outpatient setting designed around your convenience.
Advanced, Image-Guided Techniques
Our procedures are performed using precision imaging to ensure accuracy and safety.
Individualized Care Plans
We take the time to understand your symptoms and goals before recommending treatment.
Local Convenience
Patients across the Raleigh area trust our team for effective, modern care close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions About HAE
How does HAE differ from traditional hemorrhoid surgery?
Unlike surgery, HAE does not remove hemorrhoids. Instead, it reduces the blood supply feeding them, allowing them to shrink gradually without incisions or tissue removal.
Is the procedure done under anesthesia?
HAE is usually performed with local anesthesia and light sedation, so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
What is recovery like after HAE?
Recovery is typically quick. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, with far less discomfort than surgical options.
How soon will symptoms improve?
Some patients notice early improvements within days, with continued progress over several weeks as the hemorrhoids shrink.
Does insurance cover HAE?
Coverage varies by provider, but many plans may include HAE when medically appropriate. Our team can help verify your benefits.