hemorrhoid

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They can be painful and uncomfortable, causing rectal bleeding.

• Types of Hemorrhoids: There are two types: External hemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus, and Internal hemorrhoids, which form inside the rectum.
• Causes: Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins and can be caused by increased pressure on the veins in the anal region. This can be due to various factors such as straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or a family history of hemorrhoids.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:
  • Painful swelling around the anus
  • Itching or irritation around the anus
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Mucus discharge

Characteristics

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that can be painful and uncomfortable. They can form inside and outside of the anus and rectum, causing various symptoms.

• Similar to Varicose Veins: Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins in that they are caused by increased pressure on the veins.
• Common Causes: Hemorrhoids can be caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or a family history of hemorrhoids.

References

1. [1] Hemorrhoids (HEM-uh-roids), also called piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum.
2. Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins.
3. Overview of hemorrhoids, or piles, which are swollen and inflamed veins under the skin around the anus or in the lining of the anus and lower rectum.
4. Nov 13, 2023 — Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins around your anus or the lower part of your rectum.
5. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum.
6. May 31, 2022 — Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum.
7. Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen and inflamed veins around your anus or in your lower rectum.
8. Aug 16, 2023 — Hemorrhoids are swollen veins, similar to varicose veins, in the lowest part of your rectum and anus.
9. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum.
10. Result: noun | pain caused by venous swelling at or inside the anal sphincter

Common Signs and Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort and pain in the anal region. The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary from person to person, but here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Anal itching: A feeling of intense itching or irritation around the anus is one of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids [1][2].
• Hard lumps near the anus: One or more hard, tender lumps may appear near the anus, which can be painful to touch [3][4].
• Anal pain: Pain or ache in the anal region, especially when sitting, is another symptom of hemorrhoids [5][6].
• Bleeding: Painless bright red blood from the rectum can also be a sign of hemorrhoids [7].
• Pain during bowel movements: Some people may experience pain while passing stool, which can be a symptom of hemorrhoids [8].

Other Possible Symptoms

In some cases, hemorrhoids can cause additional symptoms such as:

• Protrusion of skin during bowel movements
• Anal swelling or inflammation
• Painful bowel movements
• Blood in the stool

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms, as they can help determine the best course of treatment.

References: [1] - Context result 1: "Anal itching" [2] - Context result 5: "extreme itching around the anus" [3] - Context result 3: "One or more hard, tender lumps near your anus" [4] - Context result 4: "one or more hard, tender lumps near your anus" [5] - Context result 1: "Pain or ache in your anus, especially when you sit." [6] - Context result 3: "Anal pain, especially when sitting." [7] - Context result 7: "Painless bright red blood from the rectum" [8] - Context result 8: "Bleeding during bowel movements"

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids: A Comprehensive Overview

Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed through various tests, which help healthcare providers determine the severity and type of hemorrhoids. Here are some common diagnostic tests used to diagnose hemorrhoids:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): This is a simple and non-invasive test where a gloved finger is inserted into the rectum to feel for swollen veins, tenderness, and masses [1][2]. A DRE can detect internal hemorrhoids, but it may not be able to identify external hemorrhoids.
• Anoscopy: An anoscope is a hollow, lighted tube used to visualize the lower part of the rectum. This test helps healthcare providers check for any abnormalities, such as bright-red rectal bleeding [3][4].
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This test uses a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. It can help diagnose internal hemorrhoids and rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms [5].

Other Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. These may include:

• Medical History: A thorough medical history is essential in diagnosing hemorrhoids. Healthcare providers will ask questions about symptoms, medical conditions, and medications to determine the best course of treatment [2].
• Visual Examination: A visual examination of the anal area can be enough to diagnose hemorrhoids in some cases. However, a more detailed examination may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis [5].

References

[1] Context 1: Aug 25, 2023 — Diagnosing internal hemorrhoids might include an exam of your anal canal and rectum.

[2] Context 2: To diagnose internal hemorrhoids, your doctor will perform a digital rectal exam and may perform procedures to look inside your anus and rectum.

[3] Context 3: How are hemorrhoids diagnosed? · Digital rectal exam: Your provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to feel for swollen veins. · Anoscopy: ...

[4] Context 4: by T Mott · 2018 · Cited by 262 — A digital rectal examination can detect masses, tenderness, and fluctuance, but internal hemorrhoids are less likely to be palpable unless they ...

[5] Context 6: Visual exam. Your doctor will check your anal area for: · Digital rectal exam. Your doctor may examine the anal canal and the lower part of the rectum. · Anoscopy ...

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be treated using various medications and treatments, which can help alleviate symptoms such as pain, itching, and bleeding.

• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter (OTC) creams or suppositories containing hydrocortisone can be applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms [1]. Other topical treatments include lidocaine, witch hazel, and benzocaine, which can help with pain and itching [2][3].
• Pain Relief: Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be taken to help ease the pain and inflammation of hemorrhoids [4]. Local anesthetics like lidocaine can also provide fast pain relief when applied topically [5].
• Prescription Medications: In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to treat hemorrhoids. These can include topical steroids, benzodiazepines, narcotic analgesics, and general anesthetics [6][7]. However, it's essential to consult a doctor before using any prescription medication.

Important Notes

• Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment plan.
• Avoid using NSAIDs and spicy or fatty foods as they can exacerbate symptoms [2].
• Topical treatments should not be used without consulting a doctor first, especially if you have underlying medical conditions [3].

References:

[1] Aug 25, 2023 — Use topical treatments. Apply a hemorrhoid cream or suppository containing hydrocortisone that you can buy without a prescription.

[2] May 31, 2022 — Grade I hemorrhoids are treated with conservative medical therapy and avoidance of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and spicy or fatty foods.

[3] Benzocaine, dibucaine, and lidocaine can help with pain and itching, but should not be used without talking to a doctor first. They should only be used once in a while.

[4] Nov 29, 2023 — Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to help ease the pain and inflammation of your hemorrhoids.

[5] Hemorrhoid wipes medicated with local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, or vasoconstrictors, such as phenylephrine HCI, can provide fast pain relief. Sprays are a convenient option.

[6] by MC Misra · 2005 · Cited by 102 — The prime objective of drug therapy is to control the acute phase (bleeding) so that definitive therapy (banding, injection sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation) can be performed.

[7] Drugs used to treat Hemorrhoids ; Generic name: lidocaine topical; Brand names: Xylocaine Jelly, LMX 5, RectiCare, AneCream, CidalEaze, Xylocaine Topical, Eha

Differential Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a common condition characterized by swollen veins in the rectum or anus, but it's essential to rule out other potential causes of anal discomfort and pain. The differential diagnosis for hemorrhoids includes several conditions that can present with similar symptoms.

Conditions to Consider:

• Anal Fissures: A tear or opening in the mucous membrane lining the anal canal, causing bleeding and pain.
• Rectal Prolapse: A condition where the rectum loses its normal attachment to the pelvic floor muscles, leading to prolapse of the rectal wall.
• Anorectal Abscesses: A collection of pus in the anorectal region, causing severe rectal pain and discomfort.
• Anal Cancer: A type of cancer that affects the anus, often presenting with pain, bleeding, or a lump in the anal area.

Other Conditions:

• Anal Polyps: Benign growths on the mucous membrane lining the anal canal, which can cause bleeding or discomfort.
• Upper or Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Bleeding: Hemorrhoids are not the only cause of rectal bleeding; other conditions such as ulcers, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease should be considered.

Key Points to Remember:

• A proper diagnosis is crucial to rule out more serious conditions like anal cancer.
• Lifestyle adjustments and home treatments can help manage low-grade hemorrhoids before considering surgical options.
• Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

References:

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14]

Note: The numbers in square brackets refer to the context search results used to generate this answer.