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Having Hemorrhoids? Try Acupuncture!
Anyone who has ever experienced hemorrhoids will tell you what a ‘pain in the butt’ it can be. Surgery is only an option in the most extreme cases. So, for all other situations people rely on over-the-counter and prescription medications to provide relief. Unfortunately, the relief tends to last a short period because Western medicine focuses primarily on treating symptoms. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine, which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs, maintains a holistic perspective aimed towards resolving what is causing the hemorrhoids while also providing relief and improving a person’s quality of life.
At Above & Beyond Acupuncture we treat a variety of physical and emotional ailments that can lead to hemorrhoids. We use different treatment methods to promote and increase the healing response of the body, which in turn helps heal the hemorrhoids. It takes a multifaceted approach to alleviate this ailment naturally without the use of Western medication(s). Being that this is a common condition many people suffer with we wanted to explain what hemorrhoids are, list some symptoms, discuss possible causes and explain how acupuncture can provide substantial and long-lasting relief.
What are hemorrhoids?
Before we can go into detail about treating hemorrhoids, it is best to have a basic understanding of what they are. Healthline.com defines hemorrhoids as “swollen veins that are located around the anus or in the lower rectum.” [Link] Healthline.com goes on to mention how there are two different types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids develop within the anus; external hemorrhoids develop outside of the anus. It is important to note that external hemorrhoids are more common and tend to be the most difficult to resolve.
What are some symptoms of hemorrhoids?
There are some key signs and symptoms that hemorrhoids can cause. The Mayo Clinic lists the following as common symptoms: painless bleeding during bowel movements, including bright red blood located in the toilet or on toilet paper; itching/irritation in the anal region; pain or discomfort; swelling around the anus; lump(s) near the anus that can potentially be sensitive/painful; and leakage of feces. [Link]
The severity, frequency and consistency of these symptoms can vary from person to person, as there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. It is important to seek treatment from a medical professional if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
What causes hemorrhoids?
There are a variety of potential causes of hemorrhoids. While it is true that some people have a genetic predisposition to this condition, there are other issues that can be a factor. These causes may include, but are not limited to: rushing to complete bowel movements, obesity, pregnancy, not consuming enough fiber, persistent diarrhea/constipation, sedentary lifestyle, and colon cancer.
Can acupuncture treat hemorrhoids?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbs, has been used by millions of people over thousands of years to treat a wide range of ailments including hemorrhoids. TCM provides patients with a natural and holistic approach towards resolving illness. Thus, patients using this medicine are more likely to avoid the dependency on medication and/or surgery.
Acupuncture has been shown to provide significant and long-lasting relief to people suffering with this condition. When a licensed acupuncturist treats people with hemorrhoids, he or she collects important and relevant information about the patient’s health history and presenting symptoms. The practitioner will use this data and combine it with other information such as tongue and pulse diagnosis. Once this is accomplished, the practitioner will prescribe a TCM diagnosis and treatment plan that can include acupuncture, Chinese herbs, nutritional guidance and other modalities that benefit and expedite the healing process.
From a Traditional Chinese Medical perspective, there are five major patterns that can cause hemorrhoids. These disharmonies range from damp heat, Spleen Qi deficiency, Spleen Qi sinking or not holding the blood in the vessels, blood stasis, intestinal dryness and intestinal wind. A licensed acupuncturist will employ differential diagnosis to ascertain which disharmony is present and then work towards resolving it.
If you, or someone you know, is living with hemorrhoids now is the time to start working with a licensed acupuncturist. There’s no need to suffer any longer; try acupuncture today!
Above & Beyond Acupuncture serves the Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa and Glendale areas. Please give us a call or use the online scheduler to book your appointment.
