Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids (sometimes called piles) are swollen veins in your anus and rectum that can cause pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. They can be either internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are located in the rectum and usually are not seen or felt. External hemorrhoids are on the outer skin of the anus. Hemorrhoids are common. They typically go away in a few weeks on their own, but they can cause mild to severe discomfort.
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Symptoms
- Blood on the tissue after having a bowel movement
- Skin that sticks out of the anus during bowel movements
- Extreme itching around the anus
- Uncomfortable lump(s) or swelling near your anus
- Aches or pain around the anus, especially when sitting
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Causes
- Straining during a bowel movement
- Sitting for a long period of time, especially on the toilet
- Having chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Having a family history of hemorrhoids
- Engaging in consistent heavy lifting or other activities that strain your body
- Having obesity
- Having anal sexual intercourse, which can irritate hemorrhoids
- Being pregnant
- Being over the age of 50
Complications
Complications of Hemorrhoids include:
Bleeding
Thrombosis
Prolapse
Strangulation
Skin tags
Anal fissures
Infection
Chronic discomfort
FAQ
Hemorrhoids are typically diagnosed through a physical examination of the rectal area. In some cases, a doctor may perform a digital rectal examination or use an anoscope or sigmoidoscope to visualize internal hemorrhoids. Diagnostic tests or procedures are usually unnecessary unless complications are suspected.
Non-surgical treatment options for hemorrhoids include lifestyle modifications, topical creams, suppositories, and over-the-counter medications. Surgical options include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, and hemorrhoidectomy. The effectiveness and recovery time vary depending on the treatment method and the individual's condition.
Yes, lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sitting, and practicing good bathroom habits can help alleviate symptoms and prevent hemorrhoids from worsening. Other home remedies include warm baths, ice packs, and over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams.
Yes, hemorrhoids can lead to complications such as bleeding, thrombosis, prolapse, strangulation, anal fissures, infection, and chronic discomfort. Signs or symptoms to watch out for include persistent bleeding, severe pain, swelling, protrusion of hemorrhoids, and signs of infection such as fever or increased redness and warmth in the affected area.
Yes, a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help soften stool and prevent constipation, which may reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. Fiber supplements such as psyllium husk or methylcellulose may also be beneficial.
To prevent hemorrhoids from recurring, it's essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle with a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, staying hydrated, avoiding strain during bowel movements, and practicing good bathroom habits. It's also important to manage any underlying conditions such as constipation or obesity.
Yes, certain health conditions such as liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and pelvic floor dysfunction may exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms or interfere with treatment. Medications such as opioids and anticoagulants may also increase the risk of bleeding and worsen hemorrhoid symptoms. It's important to inform your doctor about any existing health conditions or medications before starting treatment for hemorrhoids.
