What are the symptoms and causes of hemorrhoids and the fastest treatment to heal them


Some individuals suffer from hemorrhoids, which may cause them to feel anxious and stressed, especially in cases of severe pain. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a specialist doctor immediately to avoid worsening the problem and increasing symptoms. In the following report, Dalili Medical reviews everything related to internal hemorrhoids, according to what was stated on our website.

**What are internal hemorrhoids?**

 

Internal hemorrhoids are bulges and inflammation that occur in the blood vessels located within the lining that covers the lower part of the intestine, including the rectum and anus. Internal hemorrhoids are usually not visible to the naked eye, but in some cases, they may protrude and prolapse outside the anus, in which case they are known as prolapsed hemorrhoids.

**Can the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in men be treated at home?**

 

In mild cases, some home remedies such as sitting in a warm water bath or applying ice to the anal area can help to relieve pain. However, if the patient does not feel better, he should see a doctor immediately.

**Do internal hemorrhoids prevent the exit of gas from the stomach?**

 

This is a misconception, as there is no relationship between internal hemorrhoids and the release of gas from the stomach.

**When are hemorrhoids dangerous?**

 

If the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids worsen, such as bleeding from the anus or noticeable changes in the color and shape of the stool, it is necessary to go to the doctor. Failure to do so may expose the person to serious complications, including rectal or colon cancer.

**What are internal and external hemorrhoids?**

 

Hemorrhoids are a group of swollen veins located at the end of the rectum and anus, which leads to a feeling of discomfort and pain, especially during the bowel movement. Hemorrhoids are divided into two types: internal and external, and the difference between them is as follows:

- **External hemorrhoids**: They are located under the skin surrounding the anus, and cause pain due to the presence of a large number of nerves in this area, which leads to a feeling of severe pain in the event of inflammation.

- **Internal hemorrhoids**: They are located inside the rectum, and usually do not appear unless there is a tumor or swelling, and they do not cause pain to the patient due to the presence of a small number of nerves in that area.

**The difference between internal and external hemorrhoids**

The difference between internal and external hemorrhoids lies mainly in their location and associated symptoms, as follows:

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins at the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids can appear inside the rectum, and this type is called “internal hemorrhoids.” In some cases, they may appear under the skin or around the anus, and are known as “external hemorrhoids.”

Internal hemorrhoids cannot be seen or felt because they are located inside the rectum, and in the early stages they do not cause any pain, unlike external hemorrhoids, which are located under the skin around the anus, which leads to severe pain and discomfort for the patient.

**Stages of internal hemorrhoids**

 

Internal hemorrhoids are usually classified into several stages based on the extent of their prolapse from the anus, and their treatment may vary depending on the stage that the patient suffers from.

The following are the stages of internal hemorrhoids:

1. **First-degree internal hemorrhoids**: They are not prolapsed or prolapsed from the anus.

2. **Second degree internal hemorrhoids**: These represent hemorrhoids protruding from the anus that spontaneously return to the inside.

3. **Third-degree internal hemorrhoids**: These are hemorrhoids hanging from the anus that the patient needs to push to return inside.

4. **Internal hemorrhoids of the fourth degree**: Where the hemorrhoid is permanently prolapsed from the anus and cannot be pushed back inside.

Methods of detecting internal hemorrhoids

 

There are many methods used to detect internal hemorrhoids, the most prominent of which are the following:

1. **Detecting internal hemorrhoids through symptoms**

Internal hemorrhoids usually have no obvious symptoms, but they can be recognized by the following signs:

- **Feeling pain**: Especially during defecation or when constipated, which leads to excessive pressure on the rectum.

- **Itching in the affected area**: Internal hemorrhoids may cause a feeling of itching and discomfort in the affected area.

- **The appearance of blood**: Bleeding can occur as a result of intense pressure on the hemorrhoids.

**Prolapsed hemorrhoids**: In advanced cases, hemorrhoids may begin to prolapse and appear from the anus, and they are called prolapsed hemorrhoids.

2. **Medical examinations**:

- **Finger examination**: where the doctor inserts his finger into the rectal area after wearing gloves.

- **Visual examination**: This is done using an anoscope, rectoscope, or sigmoidoscope.

- **Colonoscopy**: In some cases, colon examination can be performed using colonoscopy.

**Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids**

1. **General symptoms of internal hemorrhoids**

After a bowel movement, you may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. This bleeding occurs as a result of irritation from swollen hemorrhoids, and is often accompanied by bowel movements.

2. **Painless bleeding during bowel movements**

Bleeding from internal hemorrhoids is one of the most common signs. After defecation, you may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet. Irritation of swollen hemorrhoids causes this bleeding.

3. **Swelling of tissue outside the anus**

Sometimes, internal hemorrhoids may prolapse or bulge outside the anus, which often happens during bowel movements, but may also happen while sitting or straining. These prolapsed hemorrhoids may retract spontaneously or need to be reinserted manually.

**Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in women**

 

After learning what hemorrhoids are, what hemorrhoids look like, etcAllergy in women. Let us discuss the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in women before talking about the best treatments for inflamed hemorrhoids. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in women include:

- Feeling of inflammation, itching and discomfort in the anal area.

- A feeling of constant swelling in the anal area.

- Notice small traces of blood in the stool.

Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in women are often mild, but in advanced cases additional symptoms may appear, including:

- Severe pain in the anal area, which makes sitting difficult.

- Drops of bright red blood appear on the toilet paper or in the toilet.

- Feeling of itching and irritation in the anal area and inside the rectum.

- Mucus secretions.

- The feeling of more stool in the rectum even after defecation.

- Difficulty in completely cleaning the anal area.

**Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in men**

 

Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in men include severe pain during defecation. Many people also suffer from discomfort while sitting, which is also a common symptom. Another noticeable symptom is blood during defecation, which can be easily seen. Hemorrhoids appear after defecation, but come back in, and can be manually reinserted if they do not come back spontaneously. The patient feels severe pain if the internal hemorrhoids protrude outside the anus. In addition, irritation and itching in the anal area are common symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in men.

**What are the causes of hemorrhoids?**

 

There are seven main causes of hemorrhoids and how to avoid them. The primary cause is increased pressure in the lower part of the rectum. Hemorrhoids can form as a result of increased pressure in the veins of the rectum and anus. Factors that contribute to increasing this pressure include:

 **Straining during bowel movements**

Excessive straining during bowel movements can put pressure on the blood vessels inside the rectum, causing hemorrhoids.

for. **Sitting for long periods on the toilet**

Especially during stress or reading, as pressure in the rectal area can increase and lead to the development of hemorrhoids.

. **Chronic diarrhea or constipation**

Both can cause rectal strain. Constipation leads to straining during defecation, while diarrhea can cause frequent straining.

. **Obesity**

Being overweight or obese increases pressure on the rectal veins, making hemorrhoids more likely.

. **Pregnancy**

Pregnancy puts additional pressure on the veins in the pelvic area due to an enlarged uterus, and hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause many of the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids.

**Anal intercourse**

Friction and pressure from anal intercourse can aggravate the rectum and contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.

**Low-fiber diet**

A diet lacking in fiber may cause constipation and difficulty defecating, leading to straining during bowel movements and worsening hemorrhoids.

**Lift weights frequently**

Lifting weights frequently can increase intra-abdominal pressure, straining the veins in the rectal area and leading to hemorrhoids.

**Causes of internal hemorrhoids in men**

 

The causes of hemorrhoids, whether internal or external, are very common among men. The most prominent of these reasons are:

1. **Genetic factors**: Heredity is considered one of the most important factors, as if a family member suffers from hemorrhoids, the likelihood of developing them increases.

2. **Respiratory system diseases**: Such as persistent cough, which can contribute to the occurrence of hemorrhoids.

3. **Aging**: As we age, the tissues that support the veins in the anus and rectum area weaken.

4. **Sitting for long periods**: Lack of movement and sitting for long periods are among the main causes of internal hemorrhoids, as they can lead to constipation, which is considered one of the factors contributing to the appearance of hemorrhoids. Lack of movement also leads to blood pooling in the rectal area, causing congestion.

5. **Pressure during defecation**: Constant pressure on the anal area during defecation can lead to strain on the rectum and internal tissues, which contributes to the appearance of hemorrhoids.

6. **Lifting heavy weights**: Frequently lifting weights is considered an important cause of hemorrhoids, as it leads to increased pressure on the rectal veins.

7. **Weight gain**: Weight gain is one of the most prominent factors leading to hemorrhoids, whether internal or external, as it increases pressure on the area surrounding the rectum, and excess weight is often associated with an unhealthy diet.

**What are the complications of hemorrhoids?**

 

Complications of hemorrhoids are rare, but can occur in some cases. Among the potential difficulties:

1. **Clotting**

A blood clot can form inside an external hemorrhoid, causing it to swell and making it painful and uncomfortable. This condition is known as thrombosed hemorrhoids, and may require medical care to relieve the pain.

2. **choking**

In rare cases, internal hemorrhoids may protrude outside the anus and cannot return to their place. Strangulation occurs when a prolapsed hemorrhoid becomes trapped, cutting off its blood supply, causing severe pain, swelling and tissue death. This condition requires urgent medical treatment.

3. **Anemia**

Chronic or severe bleeding from hemorrhoids can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a low red blood cell count or hemoglobin level. As a result, a person may experience fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms due to the reduced ability of the blood to transport oxygen.

**The best treatment for internal hemorrhoids**

 

**Medical treatment of internal hemorrhoids**

There are several medical options that can be considered to treat internal hemorrhoids:

- **Medicines**: They are used to relieve the symptoms of internal hemorrhoids, and they include:

 - **Laxatives** Such as docusate sodium, which helps increase the water and fat content of the stool to facilitate its passage.

 **Suppositories and creams** contain low doses of steroids such as hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation.

 **Creams and suppositories** contain a local anesthetic such as lidocaine to relieve pain.

 **Vasoconstrictor medications** such as phenylephrine or ephedrine, but diabetics should consult a doctor before using them, as they can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels.

 **Creams containing zinc oxide**, which help reduce irritation and itching in the area.

**Techniques for treating internal hemorrhoids without surgery**

There are several medical procedures aimed at treating internal hemorrhoids without the need for surgery. The most prominent of these procedures are:

1. **Vein sclerotherapy**: The vein containing the internal hemorrhoid is injected with substances that destroy it.

2. **Hemorrhoid ligation**: Rubber bands are used to cut off blood flow to the hemorrhoid, leading to the death of its tissue.

3. **Cauterization of internal hemorrhoids**: Techniques such as infrared radiation, cryotherapy, electrocautery, or laser can be used.

**Surgical treatment of internal hemorrhoids**

 

If the previous procedures do not succeed in treating second- or third-degree internal hemorrhoids, or in the case of fourth-degree internal hemorrhoids, doctors resort to hemorrhoidectomy to remove the swollen hemorrhoids. Methods of removing internal hemorrhoids include:

1. **Surgical hemorrhoidectomy** using a scalpel.

2. **Hemorrhoidectomy with staples**.

3. **Laser hemorrhoidectomy**.

**Treatment of internal hemorrhoids at home**

 

The pain and itching caused by internal hemorrhoids can be relieved at home by following the following methods:

1. **Warm water baths**: It is recommended to use them two or three times a day after defecation.

2. **Washing the anal area**: It is preferable to use unscented soap.

3. **Drying the anus**: The area should be dried gently using patting rather than rubbing.

4. **Using hemorrhoid treatment creams**: Creams containing witch hazel, which are available without a prescription, can be used to relieve itching.

5. **Use ice**: Ice can be applied to the area several times daily to relieve pain and swelling for short periods.

6. **Wear loose cotton underwear**: It helps with ventilation and reduces moisture that may increase the discomfort of hemorrhoids.

7. **Avoid straining during defecation**: especially in cases of constipation.

8. **Going to the toilet when needed**: You should not postpone going, as waiting may increase pressure on the hemorrhoid and intestines.

Trying a squatting position or bending your knees while using the toilet can help reduce pressure on the anus. It is recommended to sit in warm water for at least 10 minutes daily to relieve hemorrhoid pain.

Eating fiber is important to avoid constipation, which may lead to hemorrhoids, as fiber is found in a variety of vegetables and fruits.

The anal area should be cleaned well with warm water while showering, avoiding using soap, which may further irritate hemorrhoids. It is also preferable not to scrub vigorously with toilet paper.

Applying cold compresses to the anal area can help reduce the swelling of hemorrhoids and act as a natural pain reliever.

Drinking adequate amounts of water and fluids helps soften the stool and reduces the risk of constipation, and eating warm herbs such as chamomile, anise, and mint can improve bowel movement.

Exercising daily is also an important factor in avoiding constipation and facilitating bowel movement.

You should go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need to defecate, as delaying this may make the process more difficult.

Avoiding sitting for long periods reduces the possibility of developing internal hemorrhoids. If work requires sitting for long periods in front of the computer, it is recommended to take a 10-minute break every hour to move.

The aloe vera plant, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has historically been used to treat hemorrhoids and other skin problems. It is best to use pure aloe vera gel topically, waiting 24 to 48 hours after use to ensure that no allergic reaction occurs.

Coconut oil is considered a natural moisturizer that helps relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids and reduces the need to scratch the anal area, which reduces irritation and swelling.

Using ice packs or cold water on hemorrhoids can help relieve pain and inflammation. It is preferable to wrap the ice in a small towel to avoid skin damage, and leave it for 15 minutes on the hemorrhoid area, repeating this every hour until the swelling goes away.