The anatomy of the anorectal area of the human body is lined with soft tissues, small nerve endings, and veins that supply the blood that keeps it healthy. As with any other part for the human physiological system, any pressure or injury to these parts may cause discomfort that needs to be attended to. Since the anorectal structure is responsible for the excretion of human wastes, the process that it undergoes involves pressure and a pushing mechanism from the surrounding muscles to initiate movement that will expel body wastes in the form of feces.
As waste products collected following the internal process of digestion, it piles on the rectum which then causes pressure that forces the walls of the anal canal to widen in order to allow the passage of stool towards the anus. Such action also leads to the dilation of the blood vessels in the area, which pumps more blood to compensate the force of the pushing along the anal walls in order to maintain proper blood circulation. However, this body mechanism also threatens the functionality of the anal area as it causes the development of hemorrhoids, which are the enlarged veins caused by the abrupt flow of blood following the dilation of the blood vessels during the process of defecating or when great pressure contracts the anal canal.
Although the presence of hemorrhoids is a common occurrence in the anal tract, and would normally resolve on its own, continuous pressure and stress caused by several factors may lead to an inflamed condition. But prior to identifying these factors, one must ask, what are inflamed hemorrhoids and how are they treated? Described as swollen veins with presence of redness around the anus or lower rectum, the inflammation is usually caused by straining the affected area. The passing of hard stools, prolonged constipation, obesity, long periods of sitting and pregnancy are generally attributed to inflamed hemorrhoids.
The inflammation is also commonly accompanied by the presence of pain during elimination of stools, bruising in the affected area, and streaks of blood, if the hemorrhoids are located inside the anal canal. These symptoms are considered bothersome in an individual’s normal function but knowing what are inflamed hemorrhoids and how are they treated helps in seeking the right methods to immediately alleviate the condition.
Relief from the discomfort caused by inflamed hemorrhoids is usually through the combination of conservative management and medical treatment. Conservative management, also known as natural or home remedies is directed into naturally reducing the swelling and irritation by using non-prescription methods. Conservative treatment includes the application of ice packs, avoiding the use of irritants such as wiping with tissue paper and cleaning with soap, doing a sitz bath, and most importantly changing one’s lifestyle by taking in more fluids and consuming a high fiber diet to facilitate softer stools that is easier to pass in the anal canal, therefore avoiding straining.
Medical treatment for inflamed hemorrhoids on the other hand, entails the use of developed drugs aimed at relieving the discomfort and swelling. The use of hydrocortisone ointments for topical use helps in managing the pain and itching, providing needed comfort. Other medical treatments include outpatient medical procedures and surgery.
Finding and understanding the answer to the question, what are inflamed hemorrhoids and how are they treated, helps facilitate faster treatment. As this problem is classified as a medical condition, it is important for individuals to never take for granted its presence in order to prevent complications. Techniques and the service of health professionals are now widely available to treat hemorrhoids, providing the affected individuals with the necessary relief needed.
Share this:
