Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, sometimes referred to as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can occur either internally, inside the rectum, or externally, under the skin around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are usually not visible and are often painless, though they can cause bleeding. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are visible and can be quite painful, especially during bowel movements.
Piles may come out of the anus during defecation. These enlarged and stretched veins may cause anal irritation. Piles may some times painful and may bleed. The intensity of bleeding and pain depends upon the size of the hemorrhoids. Hard stool always causes compression on these enlarged vessels and it causes pain and bleeding.
Causes of hemorrhoids
- Constipation-frequent or prolonged straining can put significant pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to hemorrhoids.
- Pregnancy- increased pressure from the growing uterus and the strain of childbirth can lead to hemorrhoids, especially in the third trimester.
- Aging-as people age, the tissue supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely.
- Heavy lifting can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which in turn increase the pressure in the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to hemorrhoids.
- Jobs or activities that require long hours of sitting or standing can contribute to hemorrhoids.
- Low fibre diet, processed foods, can lead to constipation. When stools are hard and dry, it requires more straining to pass them, increasing pressure on the veins in the rectal area and potentially leading to hemorrhoids.
- Overweight can increase pressure on the pelvic veins, can cause hemorrhoids.
Health issues of hemorrhoids
- Pain
- Burning around anus
- Bleeding
- Itching
- Swelling in the anal region
- Difficult bowel movements
- Discomfort while sitting
- Irregular bowels
- Pain during bowel movements
Importance of timely and precise diagnosis
While the symptoms of hemorrhoids are often straightforward, they can also resemble those of more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer, anal fissures, or inflammatory bowel disease. Correct diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential to rule out these conditions and ensure appropriate treatment.
Self-care
Applying ice packs and cold compress may help to reduce the pain and burning.
Sits bath is helpful to relieve the pain and irritation.
Diet rich in fibre is important.
Drink plenty of water
Avoid lifting overweight
Avoid prolonged sitting
Physical activity can improve bowel function and prevent constipation
If your complaints persist even after these methods then you should contact your homeopath. Homeopathic medicines are useful in dealing with conditions of piles. Your homeopath may help you to overcome this irritating problem. Contact your homeopath and start your holistic treatment and start a pain-free journey.