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Introduction Piles or hemorrhoids:
Hemorrhoids or piles, are swollen and inflamed veins located in the rectum and anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, pain and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are divided into two main types:
Piles or hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids:
These are located inside the anus and are usually not visible. They usually cause painless bleeding during bowel movements. However, if the disease prolapses (falls out of the anus), it can be painful and annoying.
External hemorrhoids:
These develop under the skin around the anus and are often painful. They can cause swelling, irritation, and bleeding. If blood clots inside an external hemorrhoid, it can lead to a hard, painful lump.
Reasons:
Caused by increased downward pressure on the anus. Factors contributing to this stress include:
- Prolonged sitting on the toilet
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Low fiber diet
- Heavy lifting
Bleeding & Pain For Piles Or Hemorrhoids.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or stool
- Itching or burning in the rectal area
- Pain or discomfort, especially during bowel movements
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus, which may be tender or painful.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing hemorrhoids typically involves a physical examination and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Your healthcare provider may perform:
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.
- Visual Inspection: A doctor might use a tool called an anoscope to look at the lower part of the rectum and anus. A proctoscope or sigmoidoscope may also be used to examine the rectum and lower colon.
- Colonoscopy: In some cases, especially if there are signs of other gastrointestinal conditions or the patient is over 50, a colonoscopy may be recommended to rule out other causes of symptoms like rectal bleeding.
Treatment:
The treatment for hemorrhoids depends on their severity and symptoms. Options range from conservative home treatments to minimally invasive procedures and, in severe cases, surgery.
Home Treatments and Lifestyle Changes:
- High-Fiber Diet: Increasing fiber intake can soften stools and reduce straining. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber supplements like psyllium husk can also be helpful.
- Adequate Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps keep stools soft and easier to pass.
- Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water several times a day can relieve symptoms.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: These include creams, ointments, and suppositories designed to reduce pain, itching, and swelling. Products containing hydrocortisone can be effective in reducing inflammation.
- Good Hygiene: Keeping the anal area clean and dry can prevent irritation and worsening of symptoms.
- Avoid Straining: Trying not to strain during bowel movements and avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet can help prevent hemorrhoids.
Drink Sufficient Water.
Medicines:
Pain relievers, stool softeners and topical treatments to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Effective methods:
Rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation to shrink or remove hemorrhoids.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
When home treatments are not effective, various minimally invasive procedures can be considered:
- Rubber Band Ligation: A small rubber band is placed around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a few days.
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoidal tissue to shrink it.
- Coagulation Therapy: This involves using infrared light, laser, or heat to shrink the hemorrhoidal tissue.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the hemorrhoid to destroy the tissue.
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of severe or large hemorrhoids.
Surgery:
For severe cases or when other treatments fail, surgery may be necessary:
-
Hemorrhoidectomy: This is the most effective and complete way to treat severe or recurrent hemorrhoids. The procedure involves removing excessive tissue causing bleeding. It’s typically done under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay.
-
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (PPH): This procedure uses a circular stapling device to reposition the hemorrhoid tissue and cut off its blood supply. It is less painful than a traditional hemorrhoidectomy and has a shorter recovery time but may have a higher recurrence rate.
Prevention:
Preventing Piles involves making lifestyle changes that reduce the risk factors:
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Eat a High-Fiber Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet to prevent constipation and straining.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water throughout the day to maintain soft stools.
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Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps keep bowel movements regular.
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Avoid Straining: Try not to strain during bowel movements and avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods.
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Use the Bathroom When Needed: Don’t delay going to the bathroom when you feel the urge, as this can lead to straining.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing body weight can alleviate pressure on the pelvic veins.
Complications:
If left untreated, Piles can lead to complications such as:
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Anemia: Chronic blood loss from hemorrhoids can lead to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness.
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Strangulated Hemorrhoid: If the blood supply to an internal Piles is cut off, it can lead to severe pain and tissue death.
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Infection: Open sores from hemorrhoids can become infected, leading to pain and swelling.
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Prolapsed Hemorrhoids: Internal piles that protrude from the anus can cause significant discomfort and may require manual pushing back into place.
Living with Hemorrhoids:
Managing hemorrhoids involves a combination of treatment and lifestyle changes. Patients can often control symptoms and prevent flare-ups through dietary adjustments, maintaining proper hydration, and practicing good hygiene. Regular medical check-ups can help monitor the condition and provide early intervention when necessary.
Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy:
Pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing fetus on the pelvic veins. Pregnant women should follow preventive measures such as consuming a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing. If hemorrhoids develop, home treatments and safe over-the-counter medications can usually manage symptoms.
Psychological and Social Impact:
While a physical condition, can also have psychological and social impacts. The discomfort and embarrassment associated with hemorrhoids can affect a person’s quality of life, causing anxiety and social withdrawal. Addressing these aspects through supportive counseling and education is crucial for comprehensive care.
When to See a Doctor:
You should see a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe pain: This could indicate a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
- Persistent bleeding: Ongoing or significant rectal bleeding should be evaluated.
- Prolapsed : When internal hemorrhoids protrude outside the anus and cannot be pushed back in.
- Signs of infection: Such as fever, swelling, and redness.
Conclusion:
Hemorrhoids are a common and manageable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the available treatment options are crucial steps in managing and preventing this condition. While hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, they are rarely dangerous. With appropriate care and lifestyle changes, most people can find relief and avoid recurrent issues. If symptoms persist or complications arise, seeking medical advice is essential for effective treatment and to rule out more
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Very important topics, thank you Doctor Mamun khan.
Thanks my friend.
Helpful blog. Thanks dr.
Thanks dear.
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Yes off course. Otherwise it will discomfort to the anus area. And slowly slowly star paining. Its better to have a Surgery. Thanks.