Hemorrhoids are the dilation of the rectal or anal veins. This is a prevalent ailment, especially from 30, so it can affect 36% of the population [1]. At first, hemorrhoids do not usually cause symptoms. It is very likely that you have them and do not realize it. However, as the inflammation increases, these symptoms will also increase. But what are these symptoms? How can we know that we have hemorrhoids? Do hemorrhoids itch and bleed? In the following article, we explain it to you. In addition, we give you information about how to eliminate hemorrhoids.
Table of Contents
Causes of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, popularly known as piles, are the swelling and dilation of the veins of the anus in a way similar to varicose veins in the legs. The origin of hemorrhoids is excessive pressure in that area, which causes them to swell and increase in size. Here we explain some of the causes of hemorrhoids, that is, a situation that causes an increase in internal pressure:
- Exerting too much force when evacuating.
- Sitting for very long periods.
- Suffering from constipation
- Have chronic diarrhea.
- The obesity.
- Have anal sex.
- Eat a low fiber diet.
In addition, age is also essential since, over the years, the tissues that line the anus weaken, making it easier for the veins to narrow.
Do hemorrhoids itch and bleed?
The answer is that yes, hemorrhoids itch and bleed, or rather, hemorrhoids can itch and bleed because not everyone has the same symptoms of this problem. Although bleeding is one of the most alarming symptoms, the reality is that most of the time, hemorrhoids bleed and do not hurt, so it is not the most uncomfortable. The opposite happens with itching. Although it is a much more common symptom, few people are alarmed by it. However, it is entirely painful and challenging to carry. Next, we are going to talk about the causes, origin, and consequences of hemorrhoids that bleed without pain or pain:
Hemorrhoids that bleed
As we have explained, bleeding in hemorrhoids does not usually hurt. Despite that, it can be very worrying since if they do not have a precise diagnosis, the person may mistake it for more severe problems, for example, rectal cancer. Or anus.
Generally, hemorrhoids bleed when defecating, so they can appear:
- In the sink water.
- In the feces
- On the toilet paper when you wipe yourself.
Although this bleeding is usually mild and does not cause further problems, there are cases in which hemorrhoids bleed. In these patients, the constant loss of blood can end up causing alterations such as anemia, which is why a visit to the doctor is essential to start the appropriate treatment.
Itchy hemorrhoids
Itching and burning in the anus is the first and most common symptom of hemorrhoids. In addition, it is the one that usually causes the most discomfort for the person suffering from it. This itch is constant and can become unbearable. It is an itch that does not disappear even with scratching – something that can also increase it and should not be done. The only way to alleviate it is through corticosteroid ointments or home remedies that we will explain later.
Other symptoms of hemorrhoids
In addition to itching and bleeding, other symptoms associated with hemorrhoids must be taken into account when making a diagnosis. Here we explain the two most common:
Pain
Not everyone suffers from it. In fact, in the initial stages, it is not usual. However, pain can be a constant for those who suffer from hemorrhoids. This pain can become acute during defecation when the hemorrhoids are subjected to more significant pressure, even more so if the person suffers from constipation and must use a lot of force.
This pain is due to the pressure that the veins of the rectum and anus feel when force is exerted when defecating. That is why it is not advisable to spend a lot of time in the sink and, in addition, it is recommended to defecate with your feet placed in a small step to avoid making the act so tricky.
But not only the act of defecation can cause that pain, but it is also caused by holding the urge. If we do that, the stool will accumulate, and, in addition to the effort that its expulsion will require, an effort will also be made to keep the chair.
Anal swelling
If we consider that hemorrhoids are the inflammation of the veins in the area, it is pretty evident that we will find anal swelling among its symptoms. This will cause sensations such as that something is moving in the anus or that you have something stuck in the anus, something familiar, especially after defecation. In the most severe cases, hemorrhoids can come out of the anus, known as external hemorrhoids.
Bleeding hemorrhoids: natural remedies
Now that we have explained that itching and bleeding can be part of the symptoms of hemorrhoids, the next question is, How can we avoid it? Fortunately, we have at our disposal a wide variety of remedies, both drugs and natural, that can help us alleviate these symptoms. Here are some home remedies to avoid bleeding and itching from hemorrhoids:
- Garlic and olive oil: Garlic has excellent properties for treating various health problems, including hemorrhoids [2]. To do this, you must crush garlic cloves and freeze them in the form of a suppository after combining them with olive oil. You must place them in the anus, in the area of the hemorrhoids, and wait for them to take effect and relieve the symptoms.
- Water baths: cold water baths are another excellent option to reduce the inflammation of hemorrhoids. To do this, you must fill a basin or bidet with cold water and salt and submerge the anus for 15 minutes. Another option is to do it with cold compresses.
- Food: food is fundamental when it comes to preventing hemorrhoids since it can relieve constipation and soften the stool so that it does not cause so much pressure. In this sense, foods rich in fiber should be given priority, and drinking at least 2 liters of water daily.
- Aloe vera: aloe vera is a plant that is one of the most effective plants to reduce inflammation and reduce itching [3]. To use its properties, you just have to cut a leaf of this plant, extract its liquid and apply it to the affected area.
Medications for hemorrhoids
In addition to the natural remedies that we have just explained to you, some drugs can be used to treat hemorrhoids and their symptoms. Here we present the most used:
- Ointments: for example, Ultraproct, Protoacid, or Neobatín. All of them are ointments that must be prescribed by a doctor and that help both reduce the pain and itching of hemorrhoids and the swelling of the area.
- Anti-inflammatories and analgesics: in cases where the pain is acute, always under medical supervision, medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to alleviate these symptoms.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Do hemorrhoids itch and bleed? We recommend that you enter our Digestive System category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.