Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins around or inside the anus and rectum, leading to symptoms like tenderness, discomfort, and pain when sitting. They are pretty common and can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. Hemorrhoids might be a short-term issue or a recurring problem.
There are several causes of hemorrhoids, including gastrointestinal disorders, pregnancy, aging, and diets low in fiber. Identifying the cause can help you and your healthcare provider decide on the best treatment plan. Healthcare providers typically classify hemorrhoids based on their location: inside or outside the anus or rectum.
Internal hemorrhoids form inside the anus or rectum, under the mucosa, which lines the rectum. Sometimes, they can become prolapsed, which means they start to bulge outward. The degree of prolapse can vary greatly. On the other hand, external hemorrhoids are located just outside the anus and form beneath the skin. These can sometimes develop into blood clots, known as thrombosed hemorrhoids.
The symptoms you experience depend significantly on the location of your hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids usually have milder symptoms compared to external ones. External hemorrhoids often come with more uncomfortable symptoms. Hemorrhoids occur due to increased pressure on the veins in and around the rectum and anus, leading to swelling and inflammation.
Certain factors can boost your risk of getting hemorrhoids, including specific lifestyle habits. If you suspect you have hemorrhoids, it’s a good idea to visit a healthcare provider for assessment. They will inquire about your medical history, your symptoms, and conduct a physical exam, especially if there are external hemorrhoids.
To manage hemorrhoids, the goal is to alleviate current symptoms and prevent new ones from forming. One common treatment is softening your stool, as straining during bowel movements can heighten vein pressure. Your provider might suggest various treatment options to help with this. Besides supplements and dietary adjustments, your provider might also recommend at-home treatments to ease symptoms.
If home remedies and prevention tactics don’t do the trick, there are more advanced treatments available to relieve pain. Preventing hemorrhoids is also important and can be approached with several strategies.
Hemorrhoids are usually not a serious health issue, but ignoring them can lead to complications. Fortunately, most can be managed with at-home remedies and lifestyle changes. If more intervention is needed, help is available through surgical procedures or medications to reduce symptoms and prevent future occurrences. It’s important to seek testing if you suspect you have hemorrhoids since leaving them untreated can worsen your condition. A healthcare provider is the best resource to guide you through the treatment options. While mild external hemorrhoids might resolve on their own, moderate or severe cases can lead to complications such as anemia, infections, or skin tags.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins near your anus and rectum, unlike polyps, which are abnormal growths found in the colon or rectum. Factors such as a low fiber diet, straining during bowel movements, frequent constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, aging, and heavy lifting can trigger hemorrhoid flare-ups. Insurance plans vary, but if your provider shows that hemorrhoid surgery is necessary, your insurance may cover it.
