What Are External Hemorrhoids
In their simplest form, external hemorrhoids are bumps or bulges under the skin around the outside of the anus. These bumps and bulges form when too much pressure gets put on the rectal veins, causing the tissue around the anus to become swollen. As time goes on, external hemorrhoids can become more and more irritating, resulting in frequent itching, pain and swelling.
Because external hemorrhoids develop on the outside of the anus, they are often easier to identify than internal hemorrhoids, which are located inside of the anus. Although internal hemorrhoids may prolapse and protrude outside the anus, they can return back inside on their own. Because of this, many people who have internal hemorrhoids think that they have external hemorrhoids. Its best to talk to your doctor to find out which youre experiencing and what treatment option may be right for your hemorrhoids. While external hemorrhoids can be extremely uncomfortable, there are plenty of ways to soothe the symptoms, including at-home solutions and medical procedures. At-home external hemorrhoids treatment options may provide temporary relief. A more definitive treatment like the CRH ORegan System will help get rid of internal hemorrhoids, which can relieve symptoms associated with external hemorrhoids.
Crh Oregan System: May Help Reduce Symptoms For External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are located in an area that contains nerve endings, which means removing them can be an extremely painful process. Because external hemorrhoids are often mistaken for internal hemorrhoids, it is important to see a doctor to receive a proper diagnosis. Nevertheless, it is very rare for someone to have external hemorrhoids without any internal disease. In most cases, many of the symptoms typically associated with external hemorrhoids actually result from internal hemorrhoids. This means treating the internal disease can relieve your symptoms.
While the CRH ORegan System does not treat external hemorrhoids, many patients will see a reduction in external hemorrhoid swelling after undergoing internal banding.
Because external hemorrhoids typically indicate an internal hemorrhoid problem, the CRH ORegan System can painlessly resolve the symptoms of individuals with external hemorrhoids in 90% of cases by banding internal hemorrhoids. This procedure has only a 1% complication rate, involving some pain and bleeding. After addressing the core internal hemorrhoid issue, external hemorrhoid symptoms normally subside.
Internal Hemorrhoids Vs External Hemorrhoids
There are two main types of hemorrhoids:
Internal Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop inside the lower rectum. Internal hemorrhoids usually don’t hurt, but they often bleed painlessly, resulting in bright red blood you might notice when you go to the bathroom and wipe.
Most of the time, internal hemorrhoids are not visible to the naked eye. But in some cases, internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anus, which is known as becoming prolapsed. When this happens, they will usually shrink back inside the rectum on their own. Protruding hemorrhoids can become irritated and itchy, and patients may find it difficult to clean themselves after a bowel movement.
Internal hemorrhoids are categorized by how prolapsed they are, which helps determine how they should be treated.
Grade 1 hemorrhoids means there is no prolapse. A prolapse that goes back in by itself is categorized as grade 2. Prolapse that needs to be pushed back in by the patient is considered grade 3. Grade 4 is when the prolapse cant be pushed back in.
External Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the outside of the anus. They can be itchy or painful, and may feel lumpy.
External hemorrhoids are called thrombosed hemorrhoids when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid. The increased pressure can be very painful, especially within the first 48 hours after it develops.
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When To Call The Doctor
If you notice recurrent bleeding between bowel movements or have a moderate amount of bleeding, you should consult with your doctor.
If you have a family history of colon cancer or are over age 40 you should see your doctor for evaluation of the recurrent rectal bleeding.
If you have prolapsed hemorrhoids that will not go back into the anus, or you have significant anal or rectal pain, you should consult your doctor.
There are numerous other medical causes of rectal bleeding that are much more serious than hemorrhoids. These will require a doctor to further evaluate he cause so that serious conditions such as colon cancer and colitis are not overlooked
Hardening Of Your External Hemorrhoid
If it feels like youre sitting on a stone, your external hemorrhoid may have developed a small blood clot. Blood clots are semi-solid clumps of blood created by the platelets and special proteins in your blood in response to an injury.
The constant stretching of the tissue in your rectum causes the walls of the blood vessels to weaken and thin. Over time, these blood vessels may swell and bulge from pooling blood, which leads to hemorrhoids. When blood gets trapped in the swollen vein, blood clots develop, creating the thrombosed hemorrhoid.
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How To Treat An Infected Hemorrhoid
An antibiotic, such as doxycycline , is used to treat an infected hemorrhoid or infected tissue caused by a procedure to remove a hemorrhoid.
Antibiotics prescribed for peritonitis include cefepime and imipenem . The specific type of antibiotic youre prescribed will depend on the severity of your infection and any problems or allergies you may have with certain medications.
Surgery to remove infected tissue around the hemorrhoid, or tissue within the abdomen , may be necessary in severe cases. This is called debridement and can help the body heal from an infection.
In addition to medications and possible surgical procedures, home remedies may help relieve symptoms. These include:
- ice packs or cold compresses around your anus
- oral pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- pads that contain a numbing agent.
Also, adjusting your diet can lead to less straining during bowel movements. A diet that includes high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help keep your stool soft and add bulk and reduce straining.
Always check with your doctor before trying any type of home treatment. You dont want to risk spreading the infection or interfering with the medical treatment youre receiving.
The best way to prevent an infected hemorrhoid is to avoid getting any kind of hemorrhoid. In addition to a high-fiber diet 20 to 35 grams daily and plenty of fluids, you can help prevent hemorrhoids by:
What Causes Infected Hemorrhoids
In some cases, certain types of hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid treatments can lead to infections.
Hemorrhoids are more likely to become infected when healthy blood flow to the area is restricted. Healthy blood flow to the rectal area means a steady supply of white blood cells and certain proteins that are part of the immune system. This helps lower the risk of infection.
Internal hemorrhoids seldom become infected. An internal hemorrhoid is one that forms in the rectum. This is the portion of the large intestine that ends at the anus.
Sometimes, an internal hemorrhoid may push down from the rectum, which is known as a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid.
A prolapsed internal hemorrhoid can often be gently pushed back up into the wall of the rectum. But its still more likely than other types to become infected.
This is because blood flow to the vein can be cut off. This is known as a strangulated internal hemorrhoid. Without the nutrients, oxygen, and immune-system cells carried in the bloodstream, an infection can quickly form.
You may have a higher risk of a strangulated hemorrhoid and a subsequent infection if you have a condition that reduces healthy circulation to the rectum. Among the conditions that can cause reduced blood flow to the region are:
In addition, having HIV or another condition that weakens the immune system can increase the risk for infected hemorrhoids.
But an infection can bring on other symptoms, too. Signs of infection include:
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Types Of Hemorrhoids: Internal And External
Hemorrhoids are either internal or external.
Internal Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and are not usually visible to the naked eye. Internal hemorrhoids generally don’t hurt, but they often bleed painlessly.
In some cases, internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anus and can be seen, which is known as becoming prolapsed. When this happens, they will usually shrink back inside the rectum on their own or can be pushed back in.
External Hemorrhoids These hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the outside of the anus. These are the most uncomfortable hemorrhoids and can be itchy or painful, and may feel lumpy. When a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid, this is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which can result in severe, ongoing pain. Sometimes clots dissolve on their own, but if they dont, your doctor can remove the clot, a procedure thats most effective if done within 72 hours of the clot forming.
Signs Your Hemorrhoids Warrant A Doctor’s Visit
Your doctor may also check for blood in the stool, examine the muscle tone of your anus, and perform a rectal exam to diagnose internal hemorrhoids. This is done in the doctor’s office with a gloved, lubricated finger and an anoscope . Your doctor may also recommend additional tests to rule out other causes of bleeding, especially if you are over age 40.
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Does Amoxicillin Give You A Headache
Sometimes tablets of Amoxicillin give you a headache. But it usually dissipates quickly after drinking a glass or two of water or taking in some ginger tea. Also, some people are sensitive to this type of medication and cannot handle their side effects. This type of side effect is quite temporary, and you will eventually go back to feeling fine. Most often, if this reaction is a result of another drug, you should avoid that particular drug while you are taking the antibiotic to prevent this from happening again. Talk with your doctor about alternative treatments. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
When Should You See A Doctor For Hemorrhoids
If youre ever concerned about your hemorrhoids or youre not sure whats happening down there, you should call your doctor, Dr. Nelson says, especially if youve had symptoms for more than a week.
Your doctor will likely recommend that you use medication first but, if that doesnt help, there are other treatment options available like:
- Rubber band ligation, where a doctor essentially cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid with a rubber band
- Sclerotherapy, in which a doctor injects a solution into a hemorrhoid, cutting off the blood supply
- Infrared photocoagulation, which uses infrared light to cut off the blood supply
- Electrocoagulation, which uses an electric current to cut off the blood supply
- Surgical removal, in more severe cases
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How Is It Diagnosed
See your doctor if you have pain or itching around your anus, or if you bleed when you have a bowel movement. Its important to see your doctor, because bleeding can also be a sign of cancer in the gastrointestinal tract.
Learn more: What causes GI bleeding? »
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. During the exam, they may insert a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel for any lumps or growths. This is called a digital rectal exam.
If you have signs or are at risk for colon cancer, you may need one of these exams to look deeper inside your colon.
- Sigmoidoscopy: The doctor inserts a thin, flexible scope with a camera at one end to view the bottom part of your colon. The scope allows your doctor to look for precancerous growths called polyps, and other changes in your colon.
- Colonoscopy: The doctor uses a scope to look at the entire length of your colon.
When To Call Your Doctor
Even if you think it’s from hemorrhoids, you should call your doctor about any rectal bleeding. It’s also a symptom of colon polyps, colitis, Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer. Anal fissures can also cause pain and bleeding. So you’ll want to make sure you get the right diagnosis and treatment.
If your hemorrhoids are very painful or aren’t getting better after you’ve tried treating them yourself, let your doctor know.
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What Are Hemorrhoids Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment And Prevention
Hemorrhoids are enlarged and swollen veins around the outside of the anus or in the lower rectum. The rectum is the last part of the bowel and leads to the anus, the opening at the end of the bowel where fecal matter leaves the body.
Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue in this area thats made up of blood vessels, connective tissue, and some muscle. These cushions dont always become enlarged or distended, but as we age, this phenomenon becomes more common causing what we call hemorrhoids, also known as piles.
Hemorrhoids can be caused in a number of ways, most commonly by straining to make a bowel movement. Lifting heavy objects, along with other activities that may cause straining, can also lead to hemorrhoids. Experiencing increased pressure during pregnancy and being overweight are other contributing factors.
Hemorrhoids may be painful and particularly bothersome if they are recurrent, but they’re not dangerous or life-threatening, and symptoms usually go away within a few days. There are plenty of effective ways to treat them, as well as options for the less common types of hemorrhoids that may be more problematic.
How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed
Your healthcare provider diagnoses hemorrhoids based on symptoms and a physical exam. You may also have:
- Digital rectal exam: Your provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for swollen veins.
- Anoscopy: Your provider uses an anoscope to view the lining of the anus and rectum.
- Sigmoidoscopy: Your provider uses a sigmoidoscope to view inside the lower part of the colon and rectum. Procedure types include flexible sigmoidoscopy and rigid sigmoidoscopy .
These tests may be uncomfortable but arent painful. They typically take place in a doctors office or outpatient center without anesthesia. You go home the same day.
Your provider may perform a colonoscopy to confirm findings from other tests or check for signs of colon cancer. This outpatient procedure requires anesthesia.
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When Is It Time To See Your Doctor
While most people think of hemorrhoids as a minor problem, they can be very painful, explains Dr. Buzas. Knowing when to treat conditions such as hemorrhoids on your own and when its better to seek help can help you avoid unnecessary complications.If youre experiencing any of the following situations related to your hemorrhoids, make an appointment to see your doctor:
- You experience rectal bleeding or see bright red blood on your toilet paper.
- You have pain and discomfort in your rectum or anus.
- Youve tried over-the-counter remedies for more than one week without relieving your symptoms.
- You have bowel movements that are maroon or dark like tar in color, which can be a sign of bleeding.
If your rectal bleeding wont stop and you feel dizzy or faint, you should consider it a medical emergency that warrants a trip to the emergency room.When you see your doctor for hemorrhoids, youll first discuss your symptoms. Be sure to answer any questions directly and honestly, to get the best diagnosis. Your doctor will then examine you for external hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids and other potential issues.
Getting your hemorrhoids checked out is no different than and as important as getting a routine colonoscopy, Pap test, mammogram or prostate exam, Dr. Buzas notes. Theres no reason to be reluctant or delay your care.
Easy Ways To Prevent Hemorrhoids
There are a number of easy, healthy ways to incorporate more fiber into your diet. Fiber-filled foods include fruits such as berries, avocados, and pears . Broccoli, artichokes, and Brussels sprouts are among the vegetables that can up your fiber intake. Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal, are also an important source. Legumes, including lentils, various beans, and green peas, are a great way to get fiber. Nuts and seeds make for a great fiber-filled snack, too.
If you’re having trouble getting enough fiber in your regular diet, consider a fiber supplement.
If you experience chronic constipation and suspect that may be contributing to your hemorrhoids, avoid eating too many foods that contain little or no fiber, such as cheese and fast and processed foods.
Drink plenty of water and other fluids. Recommendations for daily water intake vary and depend on the individual, but the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies has set adequate intake levels at 2.7 liters for men and approximately 3.7 liters for women. This can come from beverages and food, but caffeinated beverages and alcohol can be dehydrating and should not be counted in reaching this intake goal.
Exercise regularly. Exercise, especially 20 to 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a day, can help keep bowel movements regular. And regular exercise may help you lose weight, which may be contributing to the formation of hemorrhoids.
Other tips for preventing hemorrhoids include:
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Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms To Watch For
The following signs and symptoms may indicate hemorrhoids:
- Bright red blood on toilet paper, in stool, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement
- Anal itching
- Pain around the anus, especially while sitting
- Pain during bowel movements
- One or more hard, painful lumps around the anus
If you have any symptoms of hemorrhoids, try to avoid excessive straining, rubbing, or cleaning around the anus.
Doing these things can make any irritation and itching worse, and can sometimes lead to bleeding.