Hemorrhoids are swollen, dilated and inflamed veins in the rectum or anus that become itchy and painful; many people suffer from it, both men and women. Only when they begin to swell do you realize their presence; by recognizing the symptoms and causes of this disorder, you are likely to be able to identify and treat it promptly at home, although in some more severe cases medical intervention is required. Read on to learn more.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Identifying Hemorrhoids
Step 1. Look for swollen veins
They all have a cluster of veins inside the anus, around it and in the lower rectum; when they swell or protrude from pressure, they are improperly called hemorrhoids, as the exact term for the disorder is hemorrhoidal disease. They may be internal or external to the anus, and while they are bothersome, they are not a serious problem. usually, the most common symptoms are itching and pain. You may also experience pain in the anal area when you walk or sit down.
Step 2. Pay attention to whether they hurt when you need to evacuate
This is when the symptoms get worse, when the rectum and anus are put under downward pressure. In addition to the pain, many people report an uncomfortable feeling of having to evacuate again soon after, even if the bowel has actually been emptied.
Step 3. Look for blood
One of the most common signs of this disease is painful bleeding, usually when you go to the bathroom; you may see some blood on toilet paper or stool. You may also feel itchy, painful, or have small bumps around the anus.
However, hemorrhoids aren't the only possible cause of these symptoms, so you need to see your doctor to rule out other possible health problems
Step 4. Note the nodules
If you perceive small bumps similar to grapes, know that they could indicate hemorrhoids; these bumps can be of different sizes, but are usually the same color as the surrounding skin. However, if they appear black or purplish / dark red in color, see your doctor immediately as it could be hemorrhoidal thrombosis, a condition that requires medical treatment.
Step 5. Look for swelling
External hemorrhoids cause swelling in the anal area that becomes painful to the touch; However, there are several drugs that can reduce edema, including some over-the-counter called vasoconstrictors that are able to narrow these veins. You can also find medicated ointments and wipes that do not require a prescription, or apply a small ice pack to soothe discomfort and control swelling. Immerse yourself in a tub filled a few centimeters with hot water 2 or 3 times a day or use a specific tub, the "sitz bath", which you can place comfortably on the toilet bowl; when finished, pat dry gently.
Part 2 of 3: Knowing the Risk Factors
Step 1. Examine your habits when you go to the bathroom
The main cause of hemorrhoids is the effort during the evacuation; if you put pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, you can cause irritating swelling that starts to ache. If you tend to suffer from constipation or have difficulty draining, you may create more tension. reflect on these habits of yours and try to understand if they expose you to a greater risk.
- Straining can cause internal hemorrhoids to leak outward through the anus, causing what is known as hemorrhoidal protrusion or prolapse.
- If the hemorrhoids do not recede or return to their normal position with the use of specific creams, it could be an ailment that requires urgent medical intervention.
Step 2. Determine if you are constipated
Constipation causes a feeling of "clogging" that leads to straining during bowel movements. If you have trouble discharging regularly, you may create anal tension when sitting on the toilet in an attempt to get rid of stool faster.
Step 3. Pay attention if you sit for a long time
If you have to sit for long periods throughout the day, put pressure on the anal area potentially causing hemorrhoids. Those who have to drive for many hours, people who work at office desks or who are unable to move for other reasons are particularly at risk of suffering from this disorder. Examine your daily habits to see if a sedentary lifestyle may be the cause of your problem.
Step 4. Be aware that there may be other factors responsible for hemorrhoids
They can be the consequence of different ailments that irritate the anal and rectal area; for example, an anal infection can compromise surrounding tissues and inflame hemorrhoids.
Step 5. Be aware that pregnancy can also lead to this disorder
The increased weight, the pressure on the internal organs, the change in diet and the process of childbirth itself are all factors that contribute to the development of hemorrhoids; if you are suffering from it, consult your gynecologist to find a solution.
Part 3 of 3: Treating Hemorrhoids
Step 1. Try witch hazel
It has astringent properties that help soothe swelling and irritation; dip a cotton ball into the substance and rub it on the affected area, then let it dry for a few moments. If you don't want to use the pure extract of this plant, you can buy a cream that contains it.
Step 2. Apply over-the-counter pain reliever ointment
There are several free for sale that are quite effective for treating hemorrhoids; they allow such good results that, in many cases, the people who use them do not have to go to the doctor. Look for the following types of creams at the pharmacy:
- Corticosteroids, which can reduce itching and swelling
- Lidocaine-based creams, which help reduce pain;
- Vasoconstrictor ointments, creams and suppositories.
Step 3. Use emollients
Since evacuation can be very painful in the presence of hemorrhoids, you can use these products to relieve the discomfort; they are medicines capable of passing stools without exerting additional pressure in the anal and rectal area; Additionally, they can help reverse the tendency of overexertion when you are in the bathroom.
Step 4. Don't use scented toilet paper and other irritating products
The scented, colored or rough and other irritants can greatly aggravate the situation; Instead, use soft white paper or cotton balls if you are particularly sensitive. You may also feel uncomfortable wearing tight pants or tights.
Step 5. Put on comfortable, cotton underwear
In this way, you facilitate the circulation of air in the area, avoiding irritating and making the hemorrhoids painful. Wearing synthetic fabric underpants allows moisture to be trapped close to the body; you should therefore give up on tight underwear or thongs, as they create discomfort and irritation when you suffer from hemorrhoids.
Step 6. Try on the sitz bath
This is a practical way to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by this disorder. Fill the tub with warm (but not boiling) water and soak the affected area for 15 minutes. Do not add soaps and do not take a bubble bath as this may cause additional irritation rather than relieving discomfort. if you wish, you can pour witch hazel into the water, which offers even more comfort.
Step 7. See your doctor if needed
If your symptoms don't improve despite home treatments and don't go away after about a week, you should see your doctor to see if drug therapy is needed to manage the problem. In most cases, this ailment is easily treatable at home, but if your hemorrhoids persist, you shouldn't continue to feel discomfort for too long.
- Also, if the problem is not reduced, it could be an indicator of a more serious condition, such as bleeding that originates in some other area other than the anal or rectal extremity.
- Heat treatments and surgery are often used to cure more severe cases.
Step 8. Change the power supply
Increase your fiber intake, as they help soften the stool and make the evacuation process smoother. These substances are found in foods such as beans, breads and whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables; however, if you can't get adequate amounts of it through your diet, you can also get it from supplements. Gradually add them to your regular diet to avoid bloating and gas formation.
Step 9. Drink plenty of fluids
Keep yourself well hydrated to make the stool softer, so that it comes out more easily from the intestinal tract. water is the best choice, drink plenty of it - as well as other liquids - throughout the day.
Fruit juice is also a natural laxative and can help you achieve your goal
Step 10. Get regular physical activity
Try to exercise every day to keep yourself moving, including your bowels; even a simple 20-30 minute brisk walk each day is invaluable in avoiding constipation.
Advice
- There are countless home remedies you can use, such as mint oil to be diluted in the bath or tea tree oil mixed with olive oil to apply to the painful area to find relief for some time.
- If you believe you have hemorrhoids, you should definitely seek professional opinion from a doctor or nurse so they can provide you with prescription or over-the-counter medications to relieve irritation.
