Hemorrhoids, or piles as they're generally referred to, are the inflamed and swollen veins surrounding the anus or the lower part of the rectum.
Piles can be the result of undue pushing to pass out excrement.
Pregnancy, constipation or diarrhea, anal intercourse, and aging can also cause the formation of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can be external or internal.
You can easily mix them up with other anorectal troubles such as fissures, fistula, or abscesses.
Hemorrhoids will not be life threatening and also the problems usually disappear after a short time.
Symptoms: Though many people suffer from hemorrhoids, only a few endure the symptoms.
Internal hemorrhoids A lot of these might neither be seen nor felt.
But whenever a person strains to pass stool, the fragile surface of the hemorrhoid could get damaged and this can make it bleed.
Internal anal membranes don't have pain-sensitive nerve fibres, and so the hemorrhoids don't result in soreness.
If the internal hemorrhoid is pushed through an anal opening because of straining, it can result in pain and tenderness.
External hemorrhoids They are the debilitating hemorrhoids.
If blood pools in the external hemorrhoid, it's referred to as a thrombus.
This forms a clot and leads to serious pain, inflammation and distending.
If the hemorrhoid is disturbed, you can get bleeding and itchiness.
Piles are a very embarrassing problem for many, and are common in both men and women.
Over half the population suffers from this issue by the time they reach 50.
Hemorrhoids are widespread amongst pregnant ladies.
Causes: Elevated pressure in the veins belonging to the lower rectum is what results in hemorrhoids.
Pressure is often raised because of: - Constipation plus the accompanying strain to push out a stool - Continuous expulsion of loose stools by means of diarrhea - Heavy lifting - Standing or sitting for long periods - Being pregnant and giving birth - Inheritance Diagnosis: Rectal bleeding is the most typical indication of internal hemorrhoids.
But, rectal bleeding may be a symptom of digestive problems.
Your doctor will examine the region for swollen blood vessels, which would indicate piles.
In the event that rectal bleeding is accompanied by dizziness, light-headedness or fainting, a doctor must be consulted right away.
External hemorrhoids can be detected just by looking.
To ascertain the existence of an internal hemorrhoid, a doctor may have to do a colonoscope, anoscope or sigmoidoscoope.
Treatment: The first phase of the treatment aims at minimizing symptoms.
Taking a tepid tub bath several times a day in mild, warm water for around 10 minutes can be effectual.
Some hemorrhoidal lotion applied to the affected area also helps.
Continual bleeding or painful hemorrhoids may need more elaborate treatment.
Widespread procedures involve Banding, Sclerotherapy, applying Infrared light, and lastly, surgery.
Prevention: - Eat food that is fiber rich.
It will soften the stool and make it bulky, thus aiding easy passage.
- Drink plenty of water: This also helps and quickens bowel movements.
- Fiber supplements: Fiber supplements may help.
Supplements should be taken with lots of water, or else constipation may be the result.
- Exercising regularly can help enhance the blood circulation and in addition it helps to shed weight.
- Avoid standing or sitting for long stretches as this increases pressure within the veins.
- Use the toilet the minute you experience the urge, otherwise stools become hard and troublesome to pass.
Self-care may be the best care in the event that your hemorrhoids are in their early stages.
You may lower pain and discomfort by: - Using topical remedies like ointments - Keeping the anal area completely neat - Soaking regularly in lukewarm water helps alleviate pain.
- Applying ice packs or cold compresses to decrease swelling and relieve pain.
- Gently pushing a prolapsed hemorrhoid back into the anal canal.
- Using wet toilet paper to prevent friction.