Hemorrhoids

What it is and how we cure it

Hemorrhoids, also spelled haemorrhoids, are vascular structures in the anal canal

The signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids depend on the type present.[4] Internal hemorrhoids often result in painless, bright red rectal bleeding when defecating.[3][4] External hemorrhoids often result in pain and swelling in the area of the anus.[4] If bleeding occurs it is usually darker.[4] Symptoms frequently get better after a few days.[3] A skin tag may remain after the healing of an external hemorrhoid.[4]

Why Do They Appear?

There can be many reasons for the formation of hemorrhoids. Most often, a weakness in the connective tissue supporting veins in the anal canal is responsible for swelling of the veins. A fuller list of possible causes appears below:

• A family history of hemorrhoids.
• A diet low in fiber.
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
• Exerting force or straining during bowel movements.
• An age-related weakening of the connective tissue in the anal canal.
• Pregnancy.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Lifting heavy weights over prolonged periods of time.
• Anal intercourse over extended periods of time.
• Bad posture.
• Spending long periods of time sitting.

Are There Different Types of Hemorrhoids?

Depending on their location, hemorrhoids can be of two main types.

• Internal hemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids can develop within the anal canal or the rectal region. The patient will observe bleeding along with stools although this bleeding will be painless. This is because there are no pain receptors within the upper portion of the anal canal. However, internal hemorrhoid can bulge and stretch to such an extent that it protrudes out through the anus. This is called a prolapse and prolapsed hemorrhoids can not only be painful, they also tend to cause severe itching. Prolapse might occur temporarily while passing motions and retract soon afterward. Yet, in severe cases, the prolapse may remain, with a mass permanently protruding through the anal orifice. Upon performing sigmoidoscopy, external hemorrhoids are seen as purplish-blue dilated veins. Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids are visible externally as glistening, dark pinkish masses.
• External hemorrhoids: External hemorrhoids are those that appear within the lowermost portion of the anal canal. These tend to be painful because of the abundant presence of nerves in that region. Sometimes, blood clots can form within the engorged veins. This condition is known as thrombosis and when this is present, external hemorrhoids will generally have a purplish hue.

Some patients have both kinds or ‘mixed’ hemorrhoids.

What Are The Signs?

In mild cases, patients may not notice any symptoms at all and the condition will even go away in a few days, all on its own.

The most obvious noticeable sign of a case of hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding during bowel movements.
This occurs when the stools pushing past the distended veins damage their surfaces and cause them to leak blood.

The list below includes symptoms associated with both internal and external type hemorrhoids:

• Bright red blood in the stools.
• Pain while passing stools.
• Mucous discharge.
• Tender, swollen masses protruding out of the anus or at the rim of the anus.
• Itching.
• Changes in bowel movements.
• Discomfort while sitting.
• Leakage of stools.

What Are The Possible Complications?

There are a number of complications that can potentially develop in severe instances of hemorrhoids:

• It is possible for an abnormal passage or a fistula to form linking the hemorrhoid mass to the skin of the anal region.
• The patient could also develop anemia on account of the excessive loss of blood, although this is very uncommon.
• The swollen vein could lose its blood supply or become ‘strangulated’. This condition is very painful.
• The swollen mass could become infected.
• The patient could also develop fecal incontinence as a result of severe or untreated hemorrhoids.

What Tests Are Needed To Diagnose Them?

Symptoms such as rectal bleeding are also caused by conditions such as inflammatory bowel disorders and colorectal cancer. These alternative diagnoses must be ruled out in order to establish a case of hemorrhoids. A preliminary visual inspection of the anal region often helps to detect hemorrhoids. The following tests are also helpful in making a diagnosis:

• Physical examination. This procedure includes abdominal examination and digital rectal examination. Usually, this is sufficient to identify hemorrhoids, both internal and external.
• Medical history: The patient may have a history of chronic constipation that could have a bearing on the formation of the hemorrhoids.
• Sigmoidoscopy: This involves inserting a flexible endoscope into the anal canal and rectal passage to view its interior and locate any abnormalities.
• Colonoscopy: This procedure helps to rule out alternative possibilities such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Barium enema X-ray: This is a specialized imaging technique that enables the technician to obtain a visual of the colon.

Treatment & Prevention

There are various methods to treat hemorrhoids. The most effective ones include:

• Home remedies: Eat high fiber foods such as whole grains and psyllium. Add fiber to your diet gradually to decrease gas problems. Consume probiotics such as yogurt. Eat fresh fruits and vegetable high in dietary fibers.
• Topical ointments: Hemorrhoid creams with hydrocortisone can help relieve the pain. Many of these are available over-the-counter.
• Sitz baths: Soak your anal area in warm water 10-15 minutes (preferably before and after bowel movements) to speed up healing.
• Medicines: Painkillers can be taken to numb the pain. Applying ice packs also helps.

Final Words

• Avoid over-straining during bowel movements.
• Avoid leading a largely sedentary lifestyle. Have a healthy physical fitness routine.
• Don’t eat a low-fiber diet.
• Don’t delay treatment for constipation.

References