Students login | Contact Us |
|
What is a hemorrhoid? A hemorrhoid is actually a form of varicose vein. The veins in and around the rectum and anus become swollen. The two forms of hemorrhoids are internal and external. Internal. This form of hemorrhoid is located beneath the lining in the anus. Internal hemorrhoids may or may not cause pain, but are likely to bleed and protrude from the anus during bowel movements. An internal hemorrhoid may prolapse, or extend outside the anus and be quite painful. External. This form of hemorrhoid is located near the anus and feels like a hard lump. They are covered by skin, are very sensitive to touch, and bleed only when ruptured. What are the symptoms? Symptoms of hemorrhoids include: Anal itching Bleeding during bowel movements (often bright red on the paper or outside of the stool) Pain Protrusion during bowel movements Sensitive lumps around the anus What causes hemorrhoids? A variety of reasons may contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Some of these include: Age Chronic constipation Chronic diarrhea Pregnancy Straining during bowel movements Overuse of laxatives How are hemorrhoids diagnosed? Because the symptoms of hemorrhoids are similar to those of fissures, fistulae, or abscesses, it is important to be seen by a physician and be diagnosed. However, many people suffer from their hemorrhoids and treat them with over the counter medications without ever talking to their doctor. Rectal bleeding should always be checked out by a physician, even if it is suspected to be from a hemorrhoid. The physician may need to take a closer look at the area with an anoscope. An anoscope is a small tube with a light that when inserted into the rectum can help the physician see any internal hemorrhoids It is advisable to call your doctor if you have: persistent or heavy rectal bleeding (bleeding from anus) painful or itching piles (hemorrhoids) especially if it interferes with your job performance. abdominal pain. a change in the normal bowel habit lasting more than two weeks. How can I prevent the flare-ups of piles? You can easily prevent the flare-ups by preventing constipation. By bringing about a few modifications in your diet and lifestyle you can make a regular pattern for bowel movements and avoid straining at stool, which usually leads to piles (hemorrhoids). Some important guidelines include: Add more fiber (like beans, bran, broccoli, salads, fruits etc.) to your diet Drink plenty of liquids (8-10 glasses at least) Have a regular exercise schedule (maybe brisk walking for 20 minutes). Lose weight if you are obese. Train yourself for a regular bowel movement Never ignore an urge for bowel movement Keep the anal area clean. Always wash the area after every motion with a very soft or moist toilet paper. Dry the anal opening with a soft towel. Are piles (hemorrhoids) curable? Piles (hemorrhoids) are not curable but can be easily controlled by bringing a few changes in your diet and lifestyle. If you have painful and bleeding piles (hemorrhoids) it is best to consult your doctor as you may require some medication also. In pregnant women, hemorrhoids (occurring just because of pregnancy) are often a temporary problem that usually disappears totally, after childbirth. What is the treatment? Following methods are usually recommended for piles (hemorrhoids) but they should be done only after consulting your doctor. Application of cream or suppositories, soothes itching and pain, and diminishes the swelling and bleeding. If hemorrhoids prolapse (appear as lumps around the back passage) then sitting in a warm bath with some salt in it may help, as the salt helps to draw water out of the painful area, whereas an ordinary bath can actually increase the swelling. Little rubber bands can be tied around the hemorrhoids, which might cause them to shrivel and whither away. Newer Modalities Include: Cryosurgery Infrared Coagulation Radiofrequency Ablation and Ultrasonic Cut and Seal What is strangulation of Piles? Second degree hemorrhoid after prolapse may be cupped by external sphincter after which complication follows. This is accompanied by severe pain. If not reduced promptly, thrombosis follows. What is photocoagulation? Application of infrared coagulation to hemorrhoids that do not prolapse. This is painless and can be done in an out patient department. How can hemorrhoids be prevented? The best way to prevent haemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Increased fibre in the diet helps reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass. Avoid becoming overweight, and lose weight if you are fat. Eat a high fibre diet. Exercise regularly. |