Source: Freepik
What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. It is also known as piles. It is caused due to the development of lumps around and inside your bottom. Hemorrhoid tissue is a common part of our anatomy. In the normal stage, they serve as cushions that assist with stool control, but in case of enlargement or inflammation, they can lead to a disease.
When to see a doctor
If you have hemorrhoids or if you notice excessive or even mild bleeding during a bowel movement, it is important to see a doctor. If home care is not working for you, even after one week of thorough care, you need to seek professional assistance in this case.
Don’t overlook the rectal bleeding and change in bowel habits, or if you notice a change in stool color or consistency. Neglecting these can worsen your condition. If you live in Rockville, MD, try to consult with the best hemorrhoid doctors in Rockville, MD, for diagnosing and treating your condition professionally.
Treatment of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can generally be treated at home, but if you develop a serious case, the discomfort may require medical assistance. Home remedies are focused on treating discomfort and inflammation. Perhaps your doctor recommends any over-the-counter creams, warm baths, and increased dietary fiber.
If your hemorrhoids develop into symptoms, like a long period of straining during bowel movement, this is when you might require some minor surgery (Rubber Band Ligation of the Hemorrhoid) or simply a Hemorrhoidectomy, or surgical removal, for severe cases. Doctors evaluate your condition and then decide on the treatment process according to your specific needs.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
The hemorrhoids are caused by higher pressure in the lower rectum and muscles and ligaments in the abdominal area. Common causes that increase the abdominal pressure are as follows:
- In a bowel movement, you notice staining
- Sitting on the toilet for a long period
- Diarrhea or chronic constipation
- Pregnancy complications
- Obesity and poor diets with a low fiber level
- Lifting heavy objects
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Each type of hemorrhoid has its own unique and specific symptoms.
External Hemorrhoids:
In case of external hemorrhoids, the common symptoms are as follows:
- Itching in the anal
- Feeling of discomfort
- Anal ache or pain
- Swelling
- Bleeding
Excessive rubbing and cleaning can make your condition worse. This may go within a few days.
Internal Hemorrhoids
In the case of internal hemorrhoids, they are not visible, and they rarely cause discomfort. But you can notice staining while passing the stool, and it can cause:
- During bowel movement, painless bleeding
- Notice blood in your toilet tissue
- hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening
In case of prolapse, it can cause severe pain and discomfort.
Thrombosed hemorrhoids
Blood can pool in an external hemorrhoid and build a clot; this is called a thrombus. This type can lead to:
- inflammation
- a hard lump in anus
- swelling
- severe pain
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last?
There is no fixed period for hemorrhoids. Some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids get better on their own without any medical assistance within a few days. While the person with a major issue can take longer to heal and may require medical assistance and treatments.
