How Are Hemorrhoids Treated?

There is nothing to be ashamed about having hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are actually very common and any one can have them. Despite these though, many people are still too embarrassed to seek medical treatment for them. Read on to learn why seeking medical help for treating hemorrhoids is helpful.

Hemorrhoids are inflamed blood vessels in the rectum. Sometimes the term is used to refer to both the normal and abnormal structure of these blood vessels. These blood vessels are rich in vascular supply and are easily engorged because of their location. When they swell, prolapse or protrude, bothersome symptoms can occur.  These symptoms can range from pruritus, to pain, and even rectal bleeding. Rectal bleeding is quite concerning and it is important to determine its cause. Seeking medical consultation will help rule out other gastrointestinal problems, especially if you also experience changes in your bowel habits.

Usually, with rectal bleeding, the blood is bright red indicating an external source for the bleeding. The blood may appear on the toilet paper, on your underwear and may even drip on the toilet bowl. If the blood is darker, it might indicate that you might have another gastrointestinal problem that needs medical help. The same goes for bloody stools.

Another common symptom experienced with hemorrhoid is the appearance of a painful mass or protrusion at the rectal area. The pain usually peaks two to three days since the appearance of the mass and will begin to subside on the fourth day. If pain is present with the absence of a mass, immediate medical consultation is recommended as the pain can indicate a more serious problem.

Hemorrhoid treatment will depend on the severity and location of the hemorrhoid. Physicians use a grading system to gauge the severity of internal hemorrhoids. Grade I hemorrhoids are located in the anal canal. Bleeding may be present, but they usually do not prolapse. A diet rich in fiber and fluid intake along with the avoidance of straining during defecation, use of NSAIDs and spicy foods is usually enough to relieve it. The same is required for Grade II hemorrhoids with the addition of medications for relieving its symptoms. This type of hemorrhoids usually protrude during defecation and it is important to avoid straining to allow them to return to their normal anatomical position.

Grade III hemorrhoids may protrude on its own, even without straining. It does not return to its original position. It has to be pushed back for it to return back to the anal canal.  Grade IV hemorrhoids are chronically protruded and cannot be manually pushed back. They may also involve both internal and external areas of the rectum. When the blood supply to the protruded area is diminished, that area will start to become rotten. For Grade III and Grade IV hemorrhoids that are very symptomatic or bothersome, surgical hemorrhoidectomy is required. If the tissue is already gangrenous and rotten, then immediate surgery is a must. External hemorrhoids also require surgical intervention.

Having hemorrhoids is no laughing matter. In order for you to receive the right hemorrhoid treatment, medical consultation is important so that the doctor can determine it severity and rule out other underlying problems for your symptoms. While mild hemorrhoids can be easily treated and avoided with a diet rich in fiber and fluids, more severe ones require prompt surgical intervention. Do not wait until the symptoms you feel become unbearable. Remember that seeking early medical treatment always leads to a better prognosis.