Hemorrhoids – A Definition

Many people are not really aware of what a hemorrhoid is - until they get one. Most people also do not know that hemorrhoids already exist within our bodies, within the anal canal.

The anal canal is the channel through which stool matter passes. It makes up the last 4 cm of the "passageway" which leads to the entrance of the anus. Within the anal canal sits tissue matter. This tissue is soft and "cushiony" and provides a comfortable route through which bodily excrement can travel. The clumps of tissue are supplied with blood via blood vessels and are attached to the wall of the anal canal by supporting tissue.

It is only when the hemorrhoid becomes inflamed and enlarged that a person is medically classed as having hemorrhoids (or piles as they are otherwise known).

Hemorrhoid types

Hemorrhoids present themselves in two ways: internal or external.

Internal hemorrhoids can go undetected for some time as often there is little pain but instead pressure is felt within the anal canal. Anal bleeding can be a telltale sign of an internal hemorrhoid. External hemorrhoids can be seen as lumps of tissue which have fallen out of the anal cavity and can be excruciatingly painful.

Hemorrhoids home treatment

Pain, itching, and anal bleeding are just some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids. These can, in the first instance, be greatly relieved just by following some simple natural routines:

Natural ways to help

• Boost fiber intake: if you are not getting enough fiber in your diet, then your stools will not pass through as smoothly as they should and you will end up straining to pass them. Increasing your intake of fiber means that you will soften your stools hopefully removing the straining connected to constipation

• Cleanse gently: make sure that you always keep the affected area clean. Use an unperfumed cleanser or soap and do not rub too hard. After a bowel movement, just gently blot the area dry to avoid further irritation.

Home medicines

Only if hemorrhoids are left untreated and become severe is there any need to look into any type of procedure – be it non-operative or surgical. Most people can control their symptoms by buying over-the-counter drugs, creams, suppositories, ointments, gels and other forms of treatment.

There are all manner of options available nowadays to assist in the fight against hemorrhoids:

• Products such as local anesthetics and analgesics help to alleviate the pain.;

• Anti-inflammatories such as vasoconstrictors and corticosteroids help with reducing swelling;

• Protectants like antiseptics and astringents help to keep the area clean, guard against bacteria and dry the area out.

• Also available are kerolytics which are a kind of supporting medicine allowing other medications to enter the tissue more effectively.

As these are all non-prescription medicines, save time on doctor’s appointments by first checking in with your local pharmacist for information and guidance. As with any medical condition, the sooner you get your symptoms looked at, the easier they can be treated.