Piles or hemorrhoids as they are scientifically referred, are inflamed veins in the lower part of the rectum or anus, which can bring pain. They are common ailments that affect millions of people globally and from which patients can normally find a good symptomatic relief.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal Hemorrhoids: These are felt in the rectum and are often asymptomatic. It can lead to frank hemorrhage in the form of hematochezia but are not palpable abdominally.
External Haemorrhoids: These are found around the area of the rectum and situated under the skin, they become extremely uncomfortable when thrombosis occurs.
Causes
Several factors contribute to the development of Haemorrhoids:
Straining During Bowel Movements: Even constipation or diarrhea cause more pressure on the veins because of the straining.
Pregnancy: The enlarging uterus puts pressure on veins found at the rectal region.
Obesity: Overweight and obesity can raise pressure on the pelvic veins.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Immobilization affects blood circulation, and it results in edema.
Aging: The tissues that surround the veins may degenerate and therefore those who are old are more vulnerable to the conditions.
Symptoms
Bleeding: Another obvious symptoms of Haemorrhoids is bright red blood which could be seen in the toilet bowl, on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
Pain and Discomfort: The external hemorrhoids are so painful they cause extreme pain during sitting, during instances of bowel movement, or after a long sitting session.
Itching or Irritation: The skin formation around the anus may become inflamed and may develop itchiness, and can be as a result of the use of hygiene products or too much washing.
Swelling: The external hemorrhoids can lead to swelling around the anus making it painful to sit or even to make any movement.
Lumps or Protrusions: There may be nodules in the region of the anus; these are swollen veins, if touched. If it’s an external hemorrhoid, these may be seen externally.
Mucus Discharge: At times, the hemorrhoids may cause a inflammation that leads to a formation of mucus which may cause irritation on the skin surrounding it.
Difficulty with Bowel Movements: Pushing during defecation can worsen hemorrhoids making the pain or bleeding become worse.
How to Diagnose Hemorrhoids
1. Medical History
The main process of diagnosis involve taking of a detailed history of the patient’s health. Your healthcare provider will ask about:
Symptoms: History of your symptoms; including pain, itching, bleeding and any changes in your bowel habits among others.
Duration: If you have had these symptoms for less than two weeks, without any fever, they can be classified as acute.
Bowel Habits: More than frequency and consistency of bowel movements other factors about your bowel habits.
Lifestyle Factors: Diets, including exercises, or if the expatriate has had shortened or prolonged periodicities of constipation and/or diarrhea.
Family History: If the patient had hemorrhoids or any other conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract in his or her family.
2. Physical Examination
Hemorrhoids may be diagnosed with the help of a physical examination. This typically involves:
Visual Inspection: The doctor will assess the anal area for external hemorrhoids by looking for redness, inflammation or lumps. They may also be searching for signs of skin rash or cracks.
Digital Rectal Exam: In many of the situations, the doctor may administer a digital rectal examination. ((This is done by using a lubricated, gloved finger to probe the rectum in order to feel for internal hemorrhoids or other conditions). Even though it may be uncomfortable, which is rare, it doesn’t usually take long.
3. Further Testing
If the diagnosis is unclear or if there are concerning symptoms (like significant bleeding), further tests may be necessary:
Anoscopy: This procedure requires passing of a small rubber tube called anoscope to view the rectum and anal canal in more detail than during the initial physical examination. It can assist to detect internal conditions such as hemorrhoids, and other related diseases as described above.
Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: If there are signs that it could be something worse (like colon cancer), then sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be advised here. Several of these procedures enable the doctor or surgeon to examine the colon and rectum more effectively.
Treat Hemorrhoids and Prevention Strategies
Main Treatment Ones for Hemorrhoids
1.Home Remedies
Warm Baths: Warm water bath can resolve the pain and swelling within 15-20 minutes as it is one of the best options for treating any forms of injuries. As an extra option you might try adding Epsom salts to boost its effectiveness.
Cold Compresses: We can use ice pack or cold compress on the area of the body that has the painful sensation and this will minimizes oedema and dull the sensation of the pain.
Witch Hazel: This natural astringent is known to provide relief to itching and also has calming effect to inflamed skin. It can be applied directly onto the skin over the infected area using a cotton wool.
Over-the-Counter Creams: Hydrocortisone, witch hazel, creams, and ointments alleviate pain or itching cools the skin and reduces swelling. Avoid being over aggressive with the use of the chemical substances, always remember to strictly follow the package’s instructions.
2.Dietary Changes
Increase Fiber Intake: Ideally, this population should consume high fiber diets to soothe the bowel movement processes and not straining while passing stool. Some of the food’s sources of fiber include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Stay Hydrated: Consumption of water, at least 8-10 glasses per day, assists in regulating of the texture of stool to avoid formation of constipation.
3.Lifestyle Modifications
Regular Exercise: It is important for an individual to be active in a sense that it encourages proper working of the bowels apart from preventing constipation.
Avoid Straining: In the bathroom ensure that you do not strain when using the washroom. In case you feel dizzy try to place your feet on a stool, in order to bring them higher than your heart level as when you are sitting on the toilet.
4.Medical Treatments
Rubber Band Ligation: This is a process of tying a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid in order to stop it’s supply of blood leading to its eventual withering and drop off.
Sclerotherapy: A solution is inserted into the hemorrhoid tissue to cause a blood vessel to constrict.
Infrared Coagulation: A device is employed to shine on the hemorrhoid some infrared light that causes the blood vessel to stand up and reduce in size.
Surgery: In some situations, the surgery may be required and patient might need to undergo hemorrhoidectomy, which is the elimination of hemorrhoids or hemorrhoidopexy, which means that the hemorrhoids will be stapled to their original positio
Prevention Strategies
Maintain Healthy Bowel Habits
Don’t Delay Bowel Movements: Do not resist the need to defecate; respond to it immediately. The benefits include that bowel movements are softened and delaying can cause hard stools and straining.
Avoid Excessive Straining: Constricting of the anus while defecating can cause further hemorrhoids. In the case of some challenges, it is important that you seek medical advice from the right healthcare provider.
Diet and Hydration
High-Fiber Diet: It is recommended that one should intake 25-30 grams of fiber a day. Take fiber supplements, if need be.
Hydrate: To check looseness of the stool drink enough water in the day to help soften the stool.
Regular Exercise
Try getting at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least 5 days per week. This can help one to be able to gain proper weight and also have a well functioning colon.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting
If you work at your desk for several hours a day, make sure to take a break and walk around, stand or stretch. This tends to ease stress on the pelvic region
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are an ordinary pathology that can lead to pain and much discomfort. They therefore require both knowledge in terms of their aetiology, presentation and how best to deal with them. Most people can actually get rid of hemorrhoids and prevent their recurrence by adopting the right measures in matters concerning their lifestyles as well as consult their doctors when the need arises. This should be followed by advice from a medical practitioner to check out for a suitable remedy if the symptoms persist.
