What Are Hemorrhoids

The term ‘hemorrhoids’ refers to a condition in which swelling and inflammation is experienced in the veins around the anus or lower rectum. The condition may result from straining to move stools. Other factors that can result in the occurrence of hemorrhoids include pregnancy, aging, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and anal intercourse. Hemorrhoids can be internal, i.e. when they are inside the anus, and external, i.e. when they are around the anus. The internal hemorrhoids are out of sight and bleeding is their most common symptom. External hemorrhoids, being on the outside of the anus are visible and appear blue in color. In this article, we will help you explore the ailment in detail.

In most of the cases of hemorrhoids, the patients can take some simple measures to alleviate the symptoms and the condition will become better on its own. However, in the more severe cases of hemorrhoids, medicines and even surgery might be recommended by the doctor.  

 

Most of the medicines recommended for hemorrhoids are over-the-counter drugs. They include ointments, pads or suppositories. The active ingredients in them, such as hydrocortisone and witch hazel, are believed to bring relief from itching and pain. However, never ever make use of the same without consulting your doctor. Even in that case, make sure that you do not use them for more than 7 days, unless so recommended by the professional himself.

 

In some cases, the doctor may carry out a simple incision to remove a clot formed around an external hemorrhoid. Usually, simple incisions prove to be effective. However, in case there is continuous bleeding, rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy (injection) or coagulation may be required.

If the patient has not benefited from the simple procedures, surgery is recommended as the final option. It is also recommended in those cases, where the hemorrhoids are very large. In some surgery cases, the patient can directly go home after the procedure, while in others he/she may be hospitalized for a few days. Surgery for hemorrhoids may include hemorrhoidectomy or stapling.

There are some remedies that one can try at home, to get relief from the symptoms of piles. However, these remedies cannot eliminate the problem altogether.