There are two types of hemorrhoids:
Internal hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are painful swellings in the rectal canal, often caused by straining and constipation. Internal hemorrhoids are a common ailment, affecting an estimated 22% of adults in the U.S. The condition, also known as piles, is often caused by straining and constipation, but can also be caused by genetics, hemorrhoids, or pregnancy. While the exact cause of internal hemorrhoids is unknown, it is thought that internal hemorrhoids are caused by a buildup of material in the anal canal. The swellings are caused by excessive amounts of stool or gas in the anal canal.
Treatment for internal hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are diagnosed through the examination of a patient’s rectal canal. The doctor will use a sphygmomanometer, an instrument used to measure blood pressure, to check for bleeding. The doctor will also examine the anal canal for swelling. The doctor may also use an anal probe to check for the presence of stools or blood.
If internal hemorrhoids are left untreated, they can become infected and lead to more dangerous diseases, including sepsis and septicemia.
Internal hemorrhoids can be treated with simethicone, senna, or surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Simethicone is a prescription drug that helps reduce painful swelling. It is taken orally (by mouth). It works by softening the stool.
External hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are swellings, or piles, in the anal canal. They are caused by a buildup of hemorrhoid tissue, which can become inflamed. The swellings are most often inflamed and appear red in color. The word “hemorrhoid” is sometimes used to refer to either the swollen area or to the larger veins that feed it.
Treatment for External Hemorrhoids
Treatment for external hemorrhoids includes surgery, medication, and self-care. To treat hemorrhoids, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following:
1. Surgery
Surgery can treat hemorrhoids but is not often necessary. A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure for treating hemorrhoids caused by excessive pressure on the veins of the anus. A hemorrhoidectomy involves the removal of hemorrhoid tissue, including external and internal hemorrhoids. If surgery is necessary, your doctor may insert a tube into the hemorrhoid, removing part of it. The wound is created by using a scalpel to cut away the inflamed veins that are causing the bleeding. Afterward, patients will be able to walk on their own again within two days of the operation.
2. Medication
Medication for external hemorrhoids includes drugs called sulfonamides. Sulfanilamide (trade name) is an over-the-counter topical anti hemorrhoidal preparation that provides relief for minor hemorrhoid symptoms. The active ingredient, sulfanilamide, is produced by the chemical compound para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Sulfanilamide works directly on the external hemorrhoid structures to ease pain and discomfort, itching, and burning.
3. Self-care
To relieve swelling, a person may massage the affected area or take a warm bath. Other ways to relieve symptoms include eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and taking a stool softener.
4. Routine check-ups
The swelling may disappear on its own, but your doctor may recommend routine check-ups to make sure the condition has not returned.
Surgery recommendations can be painful. Surgery does not always work. If surgery does not relieve symptoms, your doctor may have a different treatment. Sometimes hemorrhoids return after surgery.
Medication can have side effects. The sulfonamides, for instance, can cause nausea and vomiting.
