Are you constantly struggling between constipation and diarrhea? Do you find yourself straining every time you use the restroom? What should be a relief may actually be causing you more distress! These issues not only disrupt your daily life with irritation and discomfort around the anus but can also lead to hemorrhoids, a condition you shouldn’t overlook.
Hemorrhoids occur when the cushions of blood vessels in the rectum and anus become swollen and fail to shrink back after bowel movements. This often results in rectal bleeding during defecation.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you might be dealing with hemorrhoids:
Fresh blood in the stool after defecation
A lump near the anus that can be felt by touch
Itching around the anal area
Persistent moisture or irritation around the anus
Pain and swelling, especially if inflammation is present
Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:
Chronic constipation: Excessive straining pushes the anal cushions downward.
Frequent diarrhea: The more you strain, the higher the risk of hemorrhoids.
Habitual straining: Trying too hard to fully empty the bowels.
Prolonged sitting on the toilet: Such as reading or using a phone while on the toilet.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and an enlarged uterus can make bowel movements more difficult.
Hemorrhoids are classified into two main types:
Develop below the dentate line, around the outer anus.
Covered by skin and can cause pain, inflammation, or bleeding.
Occur above the dentate line, inside the rectum.
Covered by mucosal tissue and do not cause pain because they lack pain-sensitive nerves.
Classified into four stages based on severity:
Stage 1: Internal hemorrhoids that remain inside but cause bleeding after bowel movements.
Treatment: High-fiber diet, hemorrhoid medications, or injection therapy to shrink the hemorrhoids.
Stage 2: Hemorrhoids protrude during bowel movements but retract on their own.
Treatment: Rubber band ligation or injection therapy, along with dietary adjustments.
Stage 3: Hemorrhoids protrude and do not retract automatically, requiring manual reinsertion.
Treatment: Surgical removal or rubber band ligation for larger hemorrhoids.
Stage 4: Hemorrhoids remain permanently outside the anus and may become inflamed.
Treatment: Surgery is the only option.
If you experience persistent rectal bleeding, discomfort, or any symptoms of hemorrhoids, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
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