By definition, a hemorrhoid is a swollen tissue of the anus or in the rectum. It is a mass that is made up of dilated veins. Some hemorrhoids can be tolerated and some cannot. It can unexpectedly bleed or if it is within the rectum can get stuck outside. There are some sufferers who claim that when the mass is stuck outside after some form of exertion, it can be manually pushed back in. There are times, however, when there is excessive bleeding or there is intolerable pain which will call for hemorrhoid surgery. Those who qualify in a surgery are generally sufferers who ignored the symptoms for a long period of time. They finally consult a doctor when no other alternative treatments could be applied.
The surgical removal of the hemorrhoidal mass is called hemorrhoidectomy. This is generally performed under general anaesthesia in a hospital. hemorrhoid surgery recovery is generally fast and there is no question that the patient can go home for full recovery within two to three weeks.
Like any other surgery, hemorrhoid surgery recovery would require pain medications, antibiotics, and advice on diet and exercise. Generally, the patient would be too tender to even consider driving, much else get over that groggy feeling left over from the anaesthesia. Some patients may experience difficulty in urination which may be because of the use of the catheter during the surgery. It is quite common to experience difficulty especially when the catheter is removed when the patient is still out of it. New techniques encourage waiting for the urge to be actually felt by the patient before the catheter is actually pulled out. This new technique has actually lowered the incidents of this type of complication.
Hemorrhoid surgery recovery is not risk free either. Remember, this is an invasive procedure and require incision of tissues which subjects it to a whole new world of threats from various points most specifically bacteria. Infection can happen if there is improper care of the affected area. This can be categorically controlled by the use of antibiotics which will have to be prescribed and intake to be properly followed. There may also be constipation after surgery which can be remedied by an increase in fluid intake and high fibre diet.
Some experience bleeding in the affected area which has to be carefully monitored and corrected. Bleeding should wane and finally stop after a day or two. When there is an increase in bleeding, a visit to the surgeon should be done immediately. A more severe complication is when a fistula develops between the anal canal and the vaginal wall. This occurs when an undetected infection inside the canal forms a weakening of the walls and a passageway develops. This type of complication can only be surgically corrected. An even rarer occurrence is that the hemorrhoid may come back.
A change in diet during the hemorrhoid surgery recovery period is advisable. Taking in lots of water and high fibre foods can help ease painful defecation at this time. It is also advisable to refrain from strenuous exercise or movements that may cause tissue dehiscence.