Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that are typically found near the anus or in the lower rectum. By the age of 50, approximately half of all adults suffer hemorrhoid symptoms.
Hemorrhoids can be internal or external in nature. Internal hemorrhoids form within the rectum or anus. External hemorrhoids develop outside the anus. Hemorrhoids are alternatively referred to as piles. External hemorrhoids are the most prevalent and distressing type. Hemorrhoids are characterized by discomfort, acute itching, and trouble sitting. They are, however, curable.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are listed below:
- severe itching in the anal area
- itchiness and discomfort in the area around the anus
- swelling around your anus that may be uncomfortable or painful
- leaking of faeces
- Uncomfortable bowel movements
- Blood in stools or during bowel movement.
Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, but it is not life-threatening. Hemorrhoids usually go away on their own without any medical intervention. However, you should visit your doctor if you experience any bleeding or have black stools. Hemorrhoids aren’t the only thing that can cause bleeding, so it’s important to be checked out if you have any.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids arise when the veins around your anus are under too much pressure, resulting in hemorrhoids. Factors that could come into play include:
- Straining during Bowel movements
- Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
- Chronic Constipation or diarrhea that persists
- being a Overweight
- Experiencing an anal intercourse
- Constantly consuming foods that are poor in fiber
- Regular heavy weight lifting.
- Being pregnant may also cause hemorrhoids
Risk factors
Hemorrhoids can be genetically transferred from parent to kid, so if your parents had hemorrhoids, you’re more likely to acquire them too. Regular heavy lifting, obesity, and other physical stresses can raise hemorrhoids’ risk.
For whatever reason, such as diarrhea or constipation, or sitting on the toilet for an extended period of time, it’s possible that hemorrhoids will form when you’re having or trying to have a bowel movement. Having an anal sex can also cause hemorrhoids.
If you’re pregnant, your chances of getting hemorrhoids go up.. As the uterus grows, it puts pressure on a vein in the colon, causing it to expand.
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed by performing a visual inspection on your anus.
When the diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor may do a separate test to look for any anomalies in your anus.
It is called a digital rectal examination. A greased finger is inserted into your rectum during this examination by your doctor by wearing gloves. An anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy may be ordered by your doctor if your risk factors for gastrointestinal disease indicate that it is necessary.
Your doctor will use a small camera to look for any abnormalities in your anus, rectum, or colon during each of these examinations. Sigmoidoscopy examines the last 40 cm of your colon, while a colonoscopy looks at the entire thing. An anoscopy looks at the inside of your anus.
A small fiber-optic camera is inserted into a small tube and then into your rectum during these examinations. Your doctor will be able to see within your rectum and check the hemorrhoid up close with this procedure.
What are the treatment options for hemorrhoids?
Pain Relief from external hemorrhoids
Spend at least 10 minutes each day soaking in a warm tub of water to reduce pain.
External hemorrhoids can be relieved by sitting on a warm water bottle. Medicated suppositories, ointments, or cream might be used to reduce burning and itching if the discomfort is excruciating. Hemorrhoid suppositories are available over the counter or online.
Fiber Supplements
An over-the-counter fiber supplement might soften your stool if you’re suffering from constipation. Psyllium and methylcellulose are two common fiber supplements.
Home remedies
Hemorrhoids can be relieved with over-the-counter topical remedies like hydrocortisone or hemorrhoid cream. Hemorrhoid cream as well as hydrocortisone cream can be purchased online. Spending 10 to 15 minutes every day soaking your anus in a sitz bath can also assist.
Every day, take a shower or bath and wash your anus with warm water to maintain proper cleanliness. However, avoid using soap, which might make hemorrhoids worse.
When wiping up after a bowel movement, avoid using toilet paper that is too rough or dry.
Reduce hemorrhoid swelling by applying a cold compress to your anus.
Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin are all examples of pain medications that can be used to treat discomfort or relieve pain.
Medical procedures
If home remedies are unsuccessful in treating your hemorrhoids, your doctor may recommend a rubber band ligation. By wrapping a rubber band around the hemorrhoid, the doctor can cut off circulation to it.
This results in the hemorrhoid losing circulation, forcing it to contract. This procedure should be carried out only by a trained medical professional. Do not attempt this on your own.
If rubber band ligation is not a viable option for you, your doctor may recommend injection therapy, also known as sclerotherapy. Your doctor will inject a chemical directly into the blood vessel during this procedure. This results in the hemorrhoid shrinking in size.
Prevention
Avoid straining during a bowel movement to keep hemorrhoids from getting worse or getting worse. Additionally, make an effort to consume more water.It’s possible to prevent stool hardening by drinking enough of water.
Prevent hemorrhoids from forming by using the restroom as soon as you have a bowel movement. To avoid constipation, make sure to get plenty of exercise on a daily basis and avoid sitting for long periods of time on hard surfaces such as cement or tile.
Eating a diet high in dietary fiber can help keep hemorrhoids at bay in the long run.
The following foods are high in dietary fiber:
- whole wheat
- brown rice
- oatmeal
- pears
- carrots
- buckwheat
- bran
Dietary fiber contributes to the formation of bulk in the intestines, resulting in softer stool.
Are there any consequences from hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can cause a variety of complications, however the following are the most common:
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
- Anemia
Conclusion
You’ll probably feel better if you get the right treatment. Following your doctor’s advice and sticking to a routine, which includes regular exercise and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting, can help you feel better.
