Piles, or hemorrhoids, are veins near the rectum or anus that bulge because of pressure. The pressure may be caused by straining to pass bowel movements or by conditions such as pregnancy, being overweight, heavy lifting or standing for long periods. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, about half of all Americans have hemorrhoids by age 50.
External and Internal
Hemorrhoids may be external or internal. An external hemorrhoid is near the anus and may itch or feel like a painful swelling or hard lump. An internal hemorrhoid may not become obvious until it bleeds --- blood on the toilet paper is a common sign --- or unless it passes through the anus to the outside, a condition known as prolapse.
Self Help
See your doctor if you have bloody stools because bleeding could signal a serious health problem. However, if you suspect hemorrhoids because of pain or itching near your anus, certain home remedies may help resolve your symptoms.
To relieve pain, sit in a warm bath several times a day. Applying ice packs to the area also helps relieve pain and shrinks swelling.
After bowel movements, clean your anus with a moistened towelette or toilet paper and gently dry the area.
To protect against irritation, The American Gastroenterological Association recommends applying zinc oxide paste or powder or medicated suppositories or creams.
Prevent constipation by getting plenty of fiber in your diet and drinking six to eight glasses of water a day. If you need additional help, your doctor may recommend a medication to soften your stool.
Getting a Diagnosis
If hemorrhoids continue to cause discomfort despite home remedies, see your doctor. If you have external hemorrhoids, the doctor should be able to see and feel them. To detect internal hemorrhoids, he may place a gloved finger in your rectum or pass a tube with a light and a small camera there.
Medical Treatments
The following treatments are available to treat hemorrhoids that continue to bleed and cause discomfort:
Placing a rubber band around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off the circulation and cause it to fall off.
Sclerotherapy --- injecting a chemical into the hemorrhoid to shrink it.
Use of infrared light, laser heat or freezing to destroy the hemorrhoid.
Surgery to remove the hemorrhoid.
Keys to Prevention
Taking steps to prevent hemorrhoids can help you avoid their pain and discomfort altogether. The American Gastroenterological Association recommends these prevention techniques: avoid straining, get plenty of fiber and fluids to keep your stools soft, exercise regularly to help move stools through your body, and respond as soon as possible when you get the urge to move your bowels.
