What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can be a source of discomfort and concern for many. At N.A. Hemorrhoids Centre-Calgary, we prioritize your well-being and offer expert insights as well as personalized treatments for rapid and effective relief.
Hemorrhoids are also known as piles and present as swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They are similar to varicose veins that you might develop on your legs. Many people ignore the discomfort until it becomes unbearable pain.
Types Of Hemorrhoids
Generally, hemorrhoids are classified into two main types – Internal and External.
Some also add other categories, such as mixed or combined hemorrhoids, which form above and beneath the dentate line. In the Guoyi Proctology Therapy system, an even segment division is used based on size and location.
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are found within your rectum and above the dentate. They commonly go unnoticed as the rectum has no nerves that can detect pain. Over time, the hemorrhoids will start to push outside the anus and may prolapse. Internal hemorrhoids may not cause pain unless they become prolapsed. They can range in severity from Grade I to Grade IV. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, anal pain, itching, and irritation.
Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids
This is usually an advanced stage of internal hemorrhoid where the hemorrhoids prolapse below the anal cavity. This happens as the hemorrhoidal tissues become weak. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, anal pain, itching, and irritation.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are characterized by blood clots. The clots form when veins become inflamed and the blood supply is cut off. When this occurs, the hemorrhoids cause clot formation under the skin. This type can be extremely painful. Symptoms include palpable blood clots, rectal bleeding, anal pain, as well as itching.
External Hemorrhoids
Inflamed and swollen veins below the dentate line or skin growth at the anus region. The most common symptoms include difficulty cleaning the anus region after bowel movements as well as pain from the inflammation or blood clots in veins. Symptoms include pain in the anus, enlarged hemorrhoidal nodes, rectal bleeding, and thrombosis.
Circumferential External Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are more commonly described in terms of their size, severity, and number. Circumferential External Hemorrhoids surround the entire circumference of the anal opening, which commonly require surgical removal.
Mixed Hemorrhoids
Mixed hemorrhoids describe inflamed and swollen veins above and below the dentate line. Major symptoms are typically a combination of both internal and external hemorrhoids and can include bright red blood-covered stools, prolapsed hemorrhoids, difficulty in cleaning the anus region after a bowel movement, itchiness, and mucous discharge.
Circumferential Mixed Hemorrhoids
This type of hemorrhoid is a Grade 4 internal hemorrhoid. They are described as circumferential hemorrhoidal prolapse combined with an external component. It is the most challenging type of hemorrhoid for both patients and their healthcare professionals.
Grade of the Hemorrhoids
Grade 1
Grade 1
- Some bleeding with bowel movements
- Some itchiness & discharge
- No prolapse
Grade 2
Grade 2
- Some bleeding with bowel movements
- Some itchiness & discharge
- Extends outside of the anus but resolves spontaneously
Grade 3
Grade 3
- Enlarging hemorrhoid
- Prolapses upon defecation and will not retract spontaneously
Grade 4
Cause of Hemorrhoids and Risk Factors
Hemorrhoids can be caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum.
Common factors include:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- A sedentary lifestyle
When to seek a professional physician?
Hemorrhoids are generally not considered a serious medical condition. However, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out other potential issues.
Symptoms & Signs
The most common signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids regardless of their grade include:
- Itching or irritation
- Pain or discomfort
- Bleeding during bowel movements (e.g., bright red blood)
- Lump or swelling around the anus
Guoyi Proctology therapy –— a unique naturopathic modality that combines both minor-surgical and non-surgical procedures with BZS (Ba Zhi San) series ointment, aiming to resolve anal diseases at their root.
Minor Surgical Procedure
Minor surgical techniques are performed under local anesthesia, allowing for precise incision and excision with minimal discomfort. After the procedure, patients remain in a recovery room for a brief observation period before being safely discharged. This minimally invasive approach is designed for specific anorectal concerns. The procedure typically lasts 10 to 40 minutes and is conducted in an outpatient setting. It is suitable in the following conditions:
- Advanced-Grade Hemorrhoids
- Painful external hemorrhoids
- Thrombosed hemorrhoids.
- External and Mixed Hemorrhoids
Some basics about minor surgical treatment include:
- No fasting is required
- Local anesthesia (No risks of general anesthesia)
- All-in-one solution that manages complex perianal disorders
- Strategic Pain Relief Plan
- Possibility of same-day procedure
- Essential Component of Post-treatment Care
Ba Zhi San Ointment Series
General Function
BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments are cream-based medicines infused with a botanical formula that relieves pain, support bleeding control, reduces inflammation and swelling, detoxifies the nearby tissues, eliminates slough, and promotes wound healing granulation. Each ointment serves a specific function at a specific location. In other words, your healthcare provider will choose the best BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments for you based on your symptoms, the location of the lesions, and previous responses to other types. The BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments restore proper muscle function and connective tissue, which resolves anal conditions.
Personalized Therapy
The application of BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments is designed to address both symptoms and underlying factors, aiming to enhance treatment outcomes and promote long-term relief. Tailored formulations are selected based on diagnosis and symptoms, ensuring an individualized approach for specific conditions. Personalized dosages and application methods optimize the therapeutic process, offering a customized care strategy for each patient
Post-treatment phase of hemorrhoids treatment
Since we understand the importance of post-treatment care, we take a unique approach to this phase. During hemorrhoid and chronic anal fissure post-treatment, we emphasize Stage One, which is a mandatory phase of daily care. This step is essential. Stage One of post-treatment care involves the application of Ba Zhi San Ointment, which supports the drying process of hemorrhoidal tissue. As a result, most patients can resume normal bowel movements from the second day after minor surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure, combined with Ba Zhi San Ointment application, allows for outpatient recovery. Patients can drive to the clinic for follow-up care without significant limitations. The main features of post-treatment are:
- Ba Zhi San anorectal Ointment Focus – A specialized treatment formulated to address the specific needs of anorectal disorders. Its therapeutic properties aid in healing and recovery.
- Professional Application – Each treatment session involves the ointment application by a skilled healthcare provider.
Ba Zhi San Ointment Series
General Function
BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments are cream-based medicines infused with a botanical formula that relieves pain, support bleeding control, reduces inflammation and swelling, detoxifies the nearby tissues, eliminates slough, and promotes wound healing granulation. Each ointment serves a specific function at a specific location. In other words, your healthcare provider will choose the best BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments for you based on your symptoms, the location of the lesions, and previous responses to other types. The BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments restore proper muscle function and connective tissue, which resolves anal conditions.
Personalized Therapy
The application of BZS (Ba Zhi San) ointments is designed to address both symptoms and underlying factors, aiming to enhance treatment outcomes and promote long-term relief. Tailored formulations are selected based on diagnosis and symptoms, ensuring an individualized approach for specific conditions. Personalized dosages and application methods optimize the therapeutic process, offering a customized care strategy for each patient
We can help you
We specialize in anorectal diseases and offer therapies for the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids, anal fistulas, anal fissures, anal abscesses and anal itching caused by anal eczemas.
Fill up the form below and our friendly staff members will get back you you shortly to arrange an appointment that works best for you.
