Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are a persistent enlargement of the veins in the rectal or anal walls. Hemorrhoidal nodes can become thrombosed, prolapsed, or strangulated, leading to severe pain, bleeding, and necrosis with infection.
Hirudotherapy for Hemorrhoid Treatment in London
Hirudotherapy Application Points for Hemorrhoids
Our London clinic utilizes the practice of hirudotherapy, employing medicinal leeches to alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms effectively. The leeches’ saliva contains the enzyme hirudin, which thins the blood, prevents clot formation, and enhances blood circulation. Another enzyme, destabilase, dissolves existing clots. These substances also expand blood vessels and provide anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and pain-relieving effects.
During the initial session, patients experience immediate pain relief. A complete course of treatments provides long-term relief from discomfort. We apply 3-6 leeches strategically around the sacral and groin areas. The duration of the application is tailored by the physician, typically starting at 15 minutes for the first session and extending up to 30-60 minutes in subsequent sessions. Treatments are conducted no more than twice a week, with a course ranging from 1 to 5 or more procedures, depending on individual needs.
Top Benefits of Leech Therapy for Hemorrhoids
For hirudotherapy treatment, especially for hemorrhoids or similar conditions, recommending a proper session frequency is critical to achieve effective results while allowing the body adequate time to heal and respond.
The points shown in the diagram are effective for hemorrhoid treatment because they target key areas that influence blood circulation and inflammation in the pelvic and rectal regions. Here’s why these specific points are effective:
1. Improving Blood Circulation
- Hemorrhoids occur due to poor blood flow and venous congestion in the rectal and anal area. The application points (such as KP2, KP3, KP6-KP13) correspond to areas near major blood vessels and venous drainage systems in the lower body.
- These points stimulate improved blood flow in the pelvic region, reducing pressure and congestion in the hemorrhoidal veins.
2. Enzymatic Action of Leeches
- Hirudin: Found in leech saliva, this natural anticoagulant prevents blood clotting and improves circulation, which is essential for reducing swollen and thrombosed hemorrhoidal veins.
- Destabilase: This enzyme dissolves existing blood clots, which helps treat thrombosed hemorrhoids.
- Other bioactive compounds in leech saliva reduce inflammation and promote healing.
3. Relieving Venous Pressure
- By placing leeches at these strategic points, the treatment relieves excessive pressure in the veins around the anus and rectum. This not only reduces swelling but also helps prevent further prolapse or complications.
4. Reducing Inflammation
- The points near the sacrum (e.g., KP6-KP13) stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the drainage of inflammatory fluids, reducing swelling and irritation around the hemorrhoidal area.
5. Pain Relief
- Leech saliva contains natural pain-relieving substances, which help alleviate the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. The placement of leeches on these specific points enhances the localized pain relief effect.
6. Balancing Local Circulation
- The sacral points (KP6-KP13) and perineal points (KP2, KP3) are chosen because they are connected to blood and nerve pathways directly affecting the hemorrhoidal plexus. This holistic stimulation balances blood flow and prevents further vein dilation.
Why 1 Hour and Post-Treatment Rest?
- The one-hour session allows leeches enough time to secrete sufficient saliva and draw out stagnated blood from the affected veins. This process reduces swelling and congestion.
- The additional rest period of 30-60 minutes ensures proper stabilization of blood flow and minimizes post-treatment bleeding, optimizing the therapeutic effects.
In summary, these points are effective for hemorrhoid treatment because they address the root causes—poor circulation, venous congestion, inflammation, and clotting—while providing natural pain relief and promoting healing. This holistic approach offers both symptomatic relief and long-term benefits.
Recommended Frequency for Hirudotherapy
- Initial Phase:
- One session every 1-2 weeks.
- This allows enough time for the therapeutic effects of the leeches’ saliva (e.g., reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation) to manifest and for the body to recover from the minor blood loss and healing process at the application points.
- Mid-Treatment Phase (for moderate cases or chronic symptoms):
- Depending on the patient’s response, sessions may continue every 1-2 weeks for a course of 3-6 treatments. This ensures progressive improvement without overloading the system.
- Maintenance Phase (for long-term benefits or recurring issues):
- After completing the initial course, you can recommend 1 session every 4-6 weeks to prevent recurrence, maintain good circulation, and promote overall wellness.
Why this Frequency Works
- Healing Time:
- The minor puncture wounds from the leeches require time to heal properly, and the body needs to replenish the small amount of blood lost.
- The enzymes in the leech saliva, such as hirudin, continue to work for days after the session, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Effectiveness:
- Spacing out sessions every 1-2 weeks ensures optimal results without overwhelming the system or causing excessive blood thinning.
- Monitoring Progress:
- This frequency allows enough time to assess the patient’s response to the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Mobile Hirudotherapy: Convenient In-Home Treatment
We understand that visiting a clinic may not always be convenient for everyone. That’s why we offer mobile hirudotherapy services, bringing the benefits of leech therapy directly to your home. This service is perfect for clients who prefer the comfort and privacy of their own space or have mobility challenges.
Our experienced practitioners ensure the same level of care and professionalism as in our clinic. Each session is conducted in a safe, hygienic, and personalized manner, tailored to your specific needs.