Hemorrhoids
Acupuncture for Hemorrhoids in North Vancouver
Hemorrhoids can cause pain, itching and bleeding, and can be hard to talk about. AcuLife Wellness offers acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine as complementary support, in a private treatment room, alongside care from your physician.
Overview
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and often cause painless bleeding, while external hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and can be itchy, sore or painful, especially if a clot forms. Straining with constipation, sitting for long periods, pregnancy and heavy lifting are common contributors.
Because rectal bleeding can have other causes, a physician should check it, especially the first time. At AcuLife Wellness, we start by learning about your symptoms, bowel habits and any diagnosis before recommending an approach.
Common Symptoms & Experiences
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
- A swelling or lump near the anus
- Straining, constipation or a feeling of incomplete emptying
How Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine May Be Used
Acupuncture for hemorrhoids usually uses points on the legs, lower back and top of the head chosen for your pattern; needles are not placed around the anus. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hemorrhoids are often linked with damp-heat in the lower body or with qi that's too weak to hold things up, and care also looks at digestion and bowel habits. Chinese herbal medicine and dietary suggestions may be offered alongside acupuncture.
Research on acupuncture for hemorrhoids is limited. It's used as complementary care alongside your physician's advice, such as fibre, fluids and topical treatments, and doesn't replace procedures your doctor may recommend.
AcuLife's Approach
Hong Ji, R.TCM.P., is a registered TCM practitioner in both Canada and China with 35 years of clinical experience. She often combines acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine and takes a whole-body view, so your plan considers your digestion, diet and daily routine.
Learn more about Hong JiWhat to Expect
Your first visit includes a private conversation about your symptoms, bowel habits, diet and any diagnosis or treatment, followed by an individualized assessment and treatment. How often you come in is discussed and adjusted as care progresses.
Constipation often plays a part. See our digestive health page for more.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your physician about any rectal bleeding, especially if it's the first time, if you're over 45, or if it comes with a change in bowel habits, dark or tarry stools, unexplained weight loss or tiredness. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, dizziness or fainting, or severe pain with a hard, swollen lump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for Hemorrhoid Support in North Vancouver?
Book an appointment with AcuLife Wellness.