Hemorrhoids, a more common term for piles, develop in the anus and lower rectum. They occur when the veins in these tissues become swollen or inflamed. Possible causes include straining during bowel movements, pressure from the fetus in pregnancy, chronic diarrhea or constipation and obesity. The Mayo Clinic suggests that aging can increase the risk of hemorrhoids because the tissues in the rectal and anal areas weaken.
Commercial Hemorrhoid Products
Several commercial hemorrhoid products are available. These come in cream, ointment, suppository or pad form. Such treatments help temporarily relieve the itching, pain and swelling associated with the hemorrhoids. The Mayo Clinic lists some of the ingredients that are common in such products, including witch hazel and hydrocortisone. Such products should only be used as directed, which typically means for a short period of time.
Soaking
Keeping the area clean is just one way to reduce irritation. Soaking in a warm bath of Epsom salts, colloidal oatmeal or baking soda can help cleanse and soothe the area. It is important to dry the area following a bath to minimize friction that can increase pain.
Pain Relief
Over-the-counter oral pain medicines, such as ibuprofen, can temporarily relieve pain. Cold packs can also be applied to the area to reduce swelling. Sitting on a pillow or special donut shaped cushion can relieve some of the pressure off the anus. Prolonged standing can also make the discomfort worse. Eating plenty of fiber or taking laxatives can make passing stools easier when a hemorrhoid is present. This can also reduce the likelihood of a recurrence.
Medical Treatment
Persistent hemorrhoids that are extremely painful require medical treatment. One type of treatment is the rubber band ligation. This requires the placement of tiny rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid to stop blood circulation. Within a few days the hemorrhoid will wither and fall off, according to the Mayo Clinic. An injection of a chemical solution, called sclerotherapy, can force the hemorrhoid to shrink. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that hemorrhoid tissues can be burned with a device that emits infrared light, called infrared coagulation.
Hemorrhoidectomy
Large or persistent hemorrhoids may be surgically removed during a procedure called a hemorrhoidectomy. While this procedure is effective, there are many complications associated with it including temporary bladder emptying difficulty causing increased rate of urinary tract infection. The procedure requires the use of a local anesthetic and sedation before the doctor removes the hemorrhoid.
Stapling
Hemorrhoid stapling is less painful than a hemorrhoidectomy. It consists of using medical staples to block the blood flow to the hemorrhoid, preventing it from persisting. The complications with this procedure include an increased risk of recurrence and rectal prolapse. Rectal prolapse occurs when a section of the rectum protrudes from the anus.
