Hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, are a common condition that can cause discomfort. Hemorrhoid banding, also known as rubber band ligation, is a frequently used and effective procedure to treat internal hemorrhoids that cause symptoms such as bleeding, pain, or itching. This minimally invasive treatment addresses hemorrhoids when home remedies are insufficient.
Understanding Hemorrhoid Banding
Hemorrhoid banding involves a healthcare provider placing a small rubber band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid. It is done using an anoscope (a thin, lighted tube) and a ligator instrument. The band works by cutting off the hemorrhoid’s blood supply. Over several days, the deprived tissue shrivels and falls off, usually within one week, and a small scar forms.
Normal Recovery After Banding
Following hemorrhoid banding, some discomfort is common. Patients may feel mild pain or pressure, fullness in the lower abdomen, or a persistent urge to have a bowel movement. Minor bleeding or a non-purulent (non-pus) discharge is also normal, especially when the banded hemorrhoid detaches around 7 to 10 days after the procedure. These symptoms resolve within a few days to a week as the area heals.
Pus After Banding: A Cause for Concern
Pus (a thick, yellowish or greenish discharge) after hemorrhoid banding is not a normal part of healing. This discharge often signals a complication, such as an infection or abscess at the banding site. An abscess forms when bacteria or stool become trapped in a clogged anal gland, creating a painful, pus-filled pocket. While rare, infection is a risk due to the bacterial environment of the rectum.
Recognizing Complications and Seeking Medical Help
Beyond pus, other symptoms after banding require immediate medical attention. These include increasing or severe pain not improving with medication, fever, or chills, which indicate infection. Significant bleeding (heavy, persistent, or with clots) warrants prompt evaluation. Difficulty urinating or a foul-smelling discharge with other symptoms suggests a complication requiring urgent medical care.
Supporting Your Recovery
To support recovery and minimize complications, several steps are helpful. Maintaining good bowel habits is important, achieved through a high-fiber diet and adequate hydration to prevent straining. Stool softeners may be recommended to make passing stool easier. Warm sitz baths for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day soothe discomfort and promote cleanliness. Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities, as advised by a healthcare provider, aids healing.