WHAT IS HEMORROHID?
Hemorrhoids or Piles are Swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause anal discomfort or anal swelling and sometimes bleeding. The inflamed veins can develop internally or externally and are quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Hemorrhoids can develop inside the rectum, called internal hemorrhoids. They also can develop under the skin around the anus, called external hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum. You usually can’t see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort. But straining or irritation when passing stool can cause:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements. You might notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet.
- A hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening called a prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid. This may result in pain and irritation.
External hemorrhoids
These are under the skin around the anus. Symptoms might include:
- Itching or irritation in the anal region.
- Pain or discomfort.
- Swelling around the anus.
- Bleeding.
HEMORRHOID SYMPTOMS
Discomfort is a common symptom, especially during bowel movements or when sitting. Other symptoms include itching and bleeding.
Piles or hemorrhoids Symptoms
- bright red blood after you poo.
- an itchy anus.
- feeling like you still need to poo after going to the toilet.
- mucus in your underwear or on toilet paper after wiping your bottom.
- lumps around your anus.
- pain around your anus
CAUSES OF HEMORRHOIDS OR PILES
The exact cause of hemorrhoids is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to their development:
- Straining during bowel movements: Chronic constipation or diarrhea can lead to straining during bowel movements, which puts pressure on the veins in the rectal area, potentially causing hemorrhoids.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the pressure on the veins in the rectal area, making hemorrhoids more likely to develop.
- Pregnancy: Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy due to increased pressure on the pelvic blood vessels and hormonal changes that can weaken the muscles supporting the veins.
- Aging: As people age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectal area may weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely to occur.
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation: Both conditions can irritate the rectal area and increase the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids.
- Sitting or standing for long periods: Prolonged sitting or standing can increase pressure on the veins in the rectal area, potentially leading to hemorrhoids.
- Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects can strain the muscles in the abdomen and pelvic area, increasing pressure on the veins in the rectal area.
- Anal intercourse: Rough anal intercourse can cause trauma to the rectal area, potentially leading to hemorrhoids.
- Poor diet: Diets low in fiber can lead to constipation, which can increase the risk of hemorrhoids. Fiber helps soften stool and promote regular bowel movements, reducing the likelihood of straining during bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids Treatment
Hemorrhoids almost always get better on their own. You can usually get relief from the itching, swelling, and pain with some simple lifestyle changes that help keep you from getting constipated, such as eating more fiber and drinking more water.
Treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the severity of symptoms. Here are some common treatment options:
Over-the-counter remedies: There are various over-the-counter products available, such as creams, ointments, suppositories, and pads, which can help relieve symptoms like itching, pain, and swelling. These typically contain ingredients like hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine.
Topical treatments: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Sitz baths, where you sit in warm water for 10-15 minutes, can also provide relief. Additionally, witch hazel pads or aloe vera gel applied to the affected area may help reduce irritation.
Increasing fiber intake: Consuming more fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help soften stool and make bowel movements easier, reducing the risk of further irritation or damage to hemorrhoids.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation and maintain soft stools, which can reduce strain during bowel movements and alleviate symptoms.
Stool softeners: If increasing fiber intake alone doesn’t improve symptoms, over-the-counter stool softeners may be recommended to help ease bowel movements and reduce straining.
Medications: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications such as oral pain relievers, topical steroids, or prescription-strength creams to help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Minimally invasive procedures: If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation to shrink or remove hemorrhoids.
Surgery: In severe cases or if other treatments haven’t been successful, surgical procedures like hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal of hemorrhoids) may be necessary.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen, especially if you have severe or persistent symptoms. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and medical history.
Have you ever had hemorrhoid or currently have hemorrhoid kindly share your experiences and solutions.
