External hemorrhoids are a very uncomfortable condition.. They may not be serious, but they must be treated properly. There are several factors that cause them, such as straining during bowel movements, childbirth or the weight gained during pregnancy.
If you suspect you have external hemorrhoids or piles, you should follow some recommendations. In addition, it is important to know the causes, symptoms and solutions to know when to go to the doctor.
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External hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms and solutions
External hemorrhoids usually disappear within two days.. During this time you should avoid standing for long periods of time, and you can soothe the discomfort with ointments and sitz baths.
However, if the discomfort persists, increases or simply does not disappear after 3 days, it is necessary to see a doctor. It is the medical professional who should make a better assessment, and if necessary, the case will be referred to a proctologist.
Causes
External hemorrhoids are caused by dilation of the rectal veins.. This happens when there is an increase in pressure in the rectum unusual pressure, the causes being varied.
On most occasions their recurrence can be prevented. However, it must be understood that once they have appeared for the first time, the chances of their reappearance are high.
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1. Constipation
Constipation is a very common cause of hemorrhoids.. When constipation occurs, the effort to expel stool can be very intense. This easily causes dilation of the veins of the anus.
2. Vascular alterations
Vascular disturbances directly affect the veins located in the rectum.. If there is any related vascular disease or a history of vascular disease in the family, there may be a relationship; blood vessel involvement is more likely.
3. Pregnancy
Hemorrhoids are very common during pregnancy.. Due to weight gain, the veins of the rectum become inflamed, and it is in the lower part of the body that this excess weight falls. On the other hand, during labor a great effort is made that regularly causes the appearance of these external hemorrhoids.
4. Aging
It is normal for the aging of the body to cause hemorrhoids.. When the fibers that support the sphincter of the rectum relax due to the natural aging process, the veins and anus dilate causing piles.
5. Obesity
Obesity is a cause of the appearance of hemorrhoids.. This is due to the fact that when the body carries a notable weight, the lower part of the anus is recently affected, and extra pressure is generated. This pressure squeezes and damages the veins of the rectum and causes external hemorrhoids.
6. Bad habits
Bad eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle are a factor in the development of hemorrhoids.. A diet low in fiber, high in red meat, lack of exercise or standing for a long time are causes of the appearance of piles.
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Symptoms
The symptoms of external hemorrhoids are easy to detect. It can be recognized well before if it is necessary to go to a professional assessment or is a condition that can be treated without further intervention.
At the first discomfort and symptoms should not hesitate to apply some of the most recommended solutions and thus reduce pain and discomfort. It is important to pay attention and not try to ignore this ailment, as it could be prolonged or aggravated.
1. Mild pain in the rectal region
Having pain in the rectal region is one of the clearest symptoms of external hemorrhoids. These pains are aggravated when sitting or having a bowel movement. They are not very intense but annoying, although a very strong pain can appear at any time of the day (which is a symptom of a complication).
2. Presence of blood
The presence of blood in the rectum is an unequivocal symptom of hemorrhoids.. Bleeding occurs after a bowel movement or becomes evident when wiping the anal region with toilet paper. They are small bright red drops that do not cause severe pain.
3. Itching
Itching in the rectum due to hemorrhoids is caused by inflammation of the area.. It can be felt at any time of the day and sometimes becomes intense and therefore very annoying. There are those who feel more than itching, burning or irritation.
4. Presence of a lump near the rectum
The presence of a lump in the rectal area often causes alarm.. It is normal for this strange volume to cause distress if its origin is unknown. It is a nodule that protrudes from the rectum, but usually the tissue returns to its place once the inflammation passes.
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Solutions
There are some simple solutions to treat external hemorrhoids.. They are complicated and help to reduce discomfort, but it is important to perform them properly and pay attention to the evolution in case there is any complication.
In most cases it is enough to take proper care and use some home remedies. Otherwise, it is the proctologist who determines if surgery is necessary. The truth is that between 20% and 30% of hemorrhoids end up requiring surgical treatment.
1. Ice
Applying ice to the rectal area is a simple treatment to reduce discomfort.. Simply place ice around the area for 15 minutes. This helps to deflate and anesthetize a little, causing a momentary relief.
If there is a lump, you can try to gently push it back into place, as long as this does not cause pain.
2. Sitz baths
Sitz baths are a very common home remedy to treat hemorrhoids.. To perform this remedy you should put warm water in a basin and sit on it without underwear.
Cypress, horse chestnut or Epsom salts can be added to help improve circulation. A daily sitz bath is recommended for 5 days.
3. Witch hazel ointment
Witch hazel ointment helps to reduce inflammation.Simply apply it to the rectal area. Witch hazel ointment can be purchased at any pharmacy, although one option is to prepare a homemade ointment.
To prepare it, boil the witch hazel with 60 ml of kerosene. Then strain and add 30 ml of glycerin. It should be applied when the resulting paste is completely cold.
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