What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids are swollen veins usually located around the anus or one’s lower rectum. Also known as piles, haemorrhoids are of two broad types - internal (those that develop on the inside of one’s anus or rectum) or external (those that are formed on the outside of the anus). External haemorrhoids are commonly found and usually the more troublesome ones.
Haemorrhoids can lead to severe itching and make it difficult for one to sit. Luckily, they are treatable and you can search for the best sexologist near me and connect with them with the help of expert health advisors of mojocare.
What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?
These include:
- Faecal leakage
- Extreme itching around the anus
- A painful or itchy lump or swelling near the anus
- Painful bowel movements
- Blood discharge after a bowel movement
Haemorrhoids aren’t life-threatening. But they are painful. Often they heal on their own without any treatment. One might develop anaemia due to this condition due to the loss of blood, but this is rare.
What leads to the development of haemorrhoids?
It’s difficult to pinpoint a single root cause of the condition. But here are a few possible explanations:
- Complications resulting from chronic constipation
- Genetic history of haemorrhoids
- Sitting on one’s toilet for a prolonged period
- Straining during bowel movement
- Consistent anal intercourse
- Pregnancy
How does a medical practitioner diagnose haemorrhoids?
Just a visual examination can confirm the diagnosis of the condition. To double-check, the practitioner might recommend a digital rectal exam. In this exam, they insert a finger covered with a glove and lubricated into your rectum. If they feel anything abnormal, they might advise another test called a sigmoidoscopy. In this procedure, a small fibre-optic camera called the sigmoidoscope, which fits into a tiny tube is inserted into your rectum to detect any abnormal structures. Using this camera, the practitioner can get a clear view of the rectum and analyse the haemorrhoid up close.
What are the treatment options for haemorrhoids?
Treatment can occur at a doctor’s office or home.
Pain Relief
To reduce your pain, soak your body from the waist down in warm water for at least 10 minutes a day. You could also try sitting on a warm heat pad/water bottle. These methods work for external haemorrhoids. If the pain becomes unbearable, you could purchase over-the-counter rectal suppositories, ointments or creams to get some respite from the burning and itching. These medications are available online, as well.
Fibre Supplements
If you are suffering from constipation, then purchasing some fibre supplements that soften your stool might help.
Homemade Remedies
Practice healthy hygiene by cleaning your anus with warm water every day. Do not use soaps because they can aggravate the condition. Also, keep away from any rough toilet paper to wipe yourself after a bowel movement.
If you wish to reduce the swelling of your haemorrhoid, a cold compress might be of some help. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can also help.
Medical Procedure
If no home remedies work, you might have to go in for a rubber band ligation, wherein the doctor cuts off the circulation to the haemorrhoid, forcing it to shrink.
Conclusion
Haemorrhoids can be managed if you follow treatment, follow proper hygiene and avoid sitting for prolonged periods.
