I PM'd the OP @Winniebagelton to ask about the Exroid procedure she mentioned and she generously replied with details. I've suffered for years with internal piles (job related, try to figure that one!) but this last year has been hell - constant pain and discomfort. Of course I could have gone to my GP and asked for help but frankly, was held back by my own embarrassment.
In short, I booked, had it and am so pleased with the results. OP asked me to update her afterwards, then suggested I tell you all. So here goes, I'll cut'n'paste my messages here in the hope it gives confidence to others to address this lumpy issue. Pun intended.
"Hi. So, the update...
I had the Exroid procedure midday yesterday in <clinic>. The doctor was a consultant colorectal surgeon, very professional, very approachable and clearly held my interests first, rather than just wanting to go ahead and be paid. Embarrassment wasn't an issue at all, he talks through the entire procedure and the possibilities and was very clear about consent. It took 50 minutes overall and a nurse was in attendance throughout.
I can only describe my experience, but here goes. I had three grade 3 internal haemorrhoids that prolapsed every day. I was in significant discomfort all day, every day beforehand. The procedure was uncomfortable but not painful overall, apart from two sharp pain jabs. The surgeon was able to apply full current to all three piles without having to back down because of my discomfort.
Afterwards, he clearly talked through exactly what he found and had done. I could tell someone had been in my ass 😂 but comfort levels certainly weren't any worse than before.
Here's the bottom line: this morning I can barely feel them and it has clearly had a marked effect, quickly. The expectation is for significant improvement and symptoms over the next 7 to 10 days. They will call in a month to check and to book me in for a further procedure if needed (he did say he expected another would be require). Overall, it was easily doable, although not exactly pleasant, and I'm delighted with the results so far.
Feel free to ask any questions; I've no embarrassment now!!"
and the follow up:
"Hey, yes, a massive improvement and it's got better every day. For the first time in years, decades, I'm actually comfortable and pain-free. I couldn't recommend it enough. I asked for a discount on the phone when I was booking and they gave 10% without quibbling, so it cost £1075. I'm pretty sure I'll need one more treatment in about 3 to 4 months and that is £750ish. Frankly, I would've paid 10 times that for the results."