The History of Hemorrhoid Treatments: From Ancient Remedies to Modern Solutions

Ancient Haemorrhoid Remedies:

Haemorrhoids has been affecting people throughout history. There were several ancient remedies that were developed:

• 1700-1500 BC – Sweet Beer

Between 1700 and 1500 BCE astringent lotions were recommended for symptomatic haemorrhoids. There were many lotions that they recommended and one of them was sweet beer.

• 1st Century AD and 130-200 AD - Leeches

It was suggested by doctors at the time that the management of haemorrhoids should be based on laxatives, leeches, and ointment.

• Middle Ages to the 1700s – Barber-surgeons

During this era there were no significant advancements made for treating haemorrhoids. The methods practised in the earlier periods became popular in Arabia and Europe, but these methods had high rates of mortality and other complications.

Modern Solutions for Haemorrhoids:

If you go to a doctor with certain symptoms of haemorrhoids such as pain in the anus, difficult bowel movements, discomfort, etc he or she will first diagnose you. The diagnosis will include an examination, either digital or visual:

• Digital examination:

Your healthcare provider will insert a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum. This allows him or her to check for any growths.

• Visual inspection:

Internal haemorrhoids are often too soft for a finger to feel them during a rectal exam. Your healthcare provider might examine your colon and rectum with a tool such as an anoscope, a proctoscope or a sigmoidoscope.

There are several solutions that doctors give in the modern era that are superior to ancient remedies:

• Medicines:

If your haemorrhoids only produce mild discomfort, your healthcare provider may suggest creams, ointments, suppositories or pads that can be bought without a prescription. These products contain ingredients like witch hazel, or hydrocortisone and lidocaine, that can provide temporary relief from pain and itchiness.

• Rubber band ligation:

Your doctor ties one or two small rubber bands around the base of an internal haemorrhoid that cuts off its blood flow. The haemorrhoid then shrinks and falls off within the following week.

• Sclerotherapy:

In sclerotherapy, your healthcare provider will inject a chemical solution into the haemorrhoid tissue so that it shrinks. The injection causes is almost painless.

• Coagulation:

Coagulation techniques involve the use of laser, infrared light or heat on the haemorrhoid.  Any of these can cause a small, bleeding internal haemorrhoid to harden and break off.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

In the vast landscape of hemorrhoid treatments, the journey from ancient remedies to modern solutions is a testament to our enduring quest for comfort and relief. As you stand at the crossroads of history and contemporary medicine, you might be wondering, "Which piles treatment is right for me?"

The answer to that question depends on your individual needs and the severity of your hemorrhoids. Ancient remedies like herbal ointments and dietary changes, while intriguing, may not always provide the relief you require, especially for more severe cases. In the modern era, advancements in medical science have given us a wide range of treatments, from minimally invasive procedures to surgical interventions, tailored to address various stages of hemorrhoidal discomfort.

Chennai Laser Gastro stands at the forefront of cutting-edge hemorrhoid treatments, offering personalized care and a spectrum of options to meet your specific needs. Our team of experienced specialists is dedicated to guiding you on the path to relief, ensuring your comfort and well-being.

Remember, the right treatment for you should be based on a thorough consultation with a piles healthcare professional who can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable approach. Don't let the history of hemorrhoid treatments confound you; embrace the modern solutions available to improve your quality of life. At Chennai Laser Gastro, we're here to support you on your journey to a pain-free and hemorrhoid-free future.