Hemorrhoids are a lot more common than most people think, but that doesn’t make them any less frustrating. Hemorrhoids can be the cause of bleeding, itching, or discomfort, which can get in the way of everyday life. Most people fear surgery or worry that the treatment will be painful, and therefore, they will avoid it. That is where Infrared Coagulation (IRC) comes in. It’s a quick, office procedure that’s really bringing relief with little pain and virtually no downtime.
What Is Infrared Coagulation for Hemorrhoids?
Infrared Coagulation is an outpatient, non-surgical procedure used for treating internal hemorrhoids. A small device delivers a pulse of infrared light lasting a few seconds to the base of the hemorrhoid. The heat cuts off the blood supply, and within several weeks, the hemorrhoid decreases in size. The whole procedure lasts a few minutes and does not require any cuts or stitches or hospitalization.
Does Infrared Coagulation Hurt?
The vast majority of people find IRC tolerable and short. You might have a warmth sensation or slight pressure during the light application, but it usually resolves after a few seconds. A few people then get some slight soreness or minimal spotting for a short time, but it rarely interferes with normal activity. Most patients actually go back to work, household chores, or exercise on the day of treatment.
Benefits of Infrared Coagulation Therapy
Patients choose IRC because it fits all the requirements they are looking for in a treatment:
- Quick: usually 5–15 minutes per visit to the office
- Painless: little or no pain to most patients
- Convenient: no hospitalization, no general anesthetic required
- Low downtime: most daily activities can be resumed immediately
- Effective: works well for small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids
- Safe: very low complication rate when done by an experienced practitioner
What Types of Candidates Make a Good IRC?
IRC is most suited to bleeding or irritating internal hemorrhoids that are not badly prolapsed. Larger, more severe hemorrhoids or those protruding outside may need something else. Your best bet is a consultation to determine if IRC is an option for you.
What to Expect During and After Infrared Coagulation
Before your appointment, you do not need to do anything specific to prepare in most instances.
As the procedure is being done, A small probe emits a short burst of light at the origin of the hemorrhoid. The whole procedure takes less than 15 minutes.
Post-treatment: There may be a little tenderness or minimal bleeding for one or two days. Heavy lifting and exercise should be avoided for a brief period, but routine life continues as before.
Some may get better after a single treatment, while others may need multiple sessions to achieve long-term relief.
Take the Next Step Towards Relief
If hemorrhoids are disrupting your life but you’ve been avoiding treatment because you’re worried about pain or recovery, Infrared Coagulation may be the option you’ve been waiting for. It’s quick, safe, and usually involves little to no downtime.
At the Hemorrhoid Institute, our team is here to get you feeling better in a warm, friendly environment. Contact us to book an appointment and find out if IRC is for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Coagulation
Is infrared coagulation painful?
Most patients experience IRC as only mildly uncomfortable at most. It’s less painful than surgery.
How soon will I improve?
Symptoms like bleeding tend to get better in a matter of days, with ongoing improvement in the weeks that follow.
Will I need more than one treatment?
Occasionally, one is sufficient, but multiple sessions may be recommended if you have more than one hemorrhoid or if symptoms return.
Is infrared coagulation covered by insurance?
In the majority of cases, yes. Our office can confirm your benefits beforehand.
Does infrared coagulation have risks?
Side effects are typically minor, like temporary bleeding or irritation. Complications do not usually occur.