Hemorrhoid Discomfort: What It Is and How to Treat It?
If you have hemorrhoids, you might feel pain, itching, irritation, or even notice some bleeding. Hemorrhoids are very common, and the good news is that they are usually easy to treat. In this article, we'll explain what hemorrhoids are, the different types, how long they last, and what you can do to feel better fast.
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| Hemorrhoid Discomfort: What It Is and How to Treat It? |
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are actually swollen blood vessels around the anus. They are like varicose veins but located at the bottom of your digestive tract.
Most of the time, hemorrhoids don’t cause pain. If they are internal, some people don’t even realize they have them. But when hemorrhoids are external, cause a prolapse (bulging out), or bring discomfort, it’s important to treat them.
What Causes Hemorrhoid Discomfort?
Hemorrhoids become painful when they swell, stretch, and get inflamed. Symptoms may include:
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Pain
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Itching
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Irritation
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Burning
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Bleeding
If you recognize these symptoms, don't worry — you’re not alone. About 80% of Canadians will experience hemorrhoid problems at some point in their lives.
Hemorrhoids are more common in:
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Pregnant women
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Older adults
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People who are overweight
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People who lift heavy objects or sit for long periods at work
Keep reading to learn more about the types of hemorrhoids and how to ease the pain.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum. They are usually not painful unless they start to bleed. Sometimes straining can cause them to pop out (called prolapse), leading to irritation and itching.
External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. They often look like soft, round, purple lumps and can be tender to the touch.
Because of their location, it can be hard to keep the area clean, causing itching. If a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid, the pain can be sudden and intense, especially during a bowel movement.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that stick out of the anus. They can become very painful if a blood clot forms inside them.
It’s important to know if you have prolapsed hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse (a more serious condition that can cause loss of bowel control). Always check with your doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
Thrombosed hemorrhoids happen when blood clots form inside swollen veins, cutting off blood flow. This can cause severe pain and bleeding.
While they usually go away by themselves within a few weeks, you should see a doctor if you have unexpected rectal bleeding.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last?
Here’s the good news: hemorrhoids usually go away!
Most hemorrhoid symptoms improve within a few weeks, even without treatment. However, if your hemorrhoids last more than 7 days after home treatments like Preparation H creams or suppositories, you should see your doctor. You might need a stronger treatment.
How to Treat Hemorrhoids
Treatment depends on the type and severity of your hemorrhoids. If they don’t heal by themselves, you have a few options:
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Home Treatment: Over-the-counter products like Preparation H creams or suppositories can shrink hemorrhoids and ease discomfort.
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Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. It then shrinks and falls off.
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Sclerotherapy: A special liquid is injected into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink.
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Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgery to remove the hemorrhoids.
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Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: Surgery that staples the hemorrhoids back inside the rectum.
Luckily, surgery is rarely needed. Most hemorrhoids heal with simple treatments. If you’re unsure about what to use, ask your pharmacist for advice or talk to your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are a very common and manageable health problem. Whether you have internal, external, prolapsed, or thrombosed hemorrhoids, relief is possible.
Most hemorrhoids get better with home treatments like creams, suppositories, and good bathroom habits. But if your symptoms stick around or get worse, don’t hesitate to see a doctor. Quick treatment can prevent bigger problems and get you back to feeling good again!
