Persistent Hemorrhoid Bleeding: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments
What are the main causes of persistent hemorrhoid bleeding. How can you identify the symptoms of bleeding hemorrhoids. Which treatment options are most effective for managing hemorrhoid-related bleeding. When should you seek medical attention for bleeding hemorrhoids.
Understanding Hemorrhoids: What They Are and Why They Bleed
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in and around the anus and rectum. While everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue, it becomes a problem when these blood vessels enlarge and cause discomfort or bleeding. But why do hemorrhoids bleed?
Bleeding typically occurs when there’s increased pressure on these swollen vessels, causing them to rupture. This can happen due to various reasons:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Pregnancy
- Lifting heavy objects
- Formation of blood clots (thrombosed hemorrhoids)
Understanding these causes is crucial for both prevention and treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids.
Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Bleeding Hemorrhoids
Identifying bleeding hemorrhoids early can lead to more effective treatment. What are the telltale signs of this condition?
- Bright red blood on toilet paper after wiping
- Blood in the toilet bowl or on stool
- Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anal area
- Swelling or lumps near the anus
It’s important to note that while bright red blood is typically associated with hemorrhoids, darker blood could indicate a problem higher up in the digestive tract and requires immediate medical attention.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: A Painful Complication
Thrombosed hemorrhoids occur when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid. This condition can be extremely painful and may lead to significant bleeding if the hemorrhoid ruptures. Symptoms of thrombosed hemorrhoids include:
- Severe pain around the anus
- A hard, bluish lump near the anal opening
- Excessive bleeding
- Difficulty sitting or having bowel movements
If you suspect you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and alleviate discomfort.
Home Remedies: Managing Bleeding Hemorrhoids Naturally
For mild cases of bleeding hemorrhoids, several home remedies can provide relief and promote healing. Which natural treatments are most effective?
- Sitz baths: Soaking the affected area in warm water for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day
- Ice packs: Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and numb pain
- Witch hazel: Using witch hazel-soaked pads to soothe irritation
- Aloe vera: Applying pure aloe vera gel for its anti-inflammatory properties
- Dietary changes: Increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated to soften stools
While these remedies can be effective for minor cases, persistent or severe bleeding should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Over-the-Counter Solutions: Effective Non-Prescription Treatments
When home remedies aren’t enough, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments can provide additional relief for bleeding hemorrhoids. What are some effective OTC options?
- Topical creams and ointments containing hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation
- Suppositories to provide internal relief and lubrication
- Bulk-forming fiber supplements to soften stools and reduce straining
- Stool softeners to make bowel movements easier
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort
It’s important to follow the instructions carefully when using OTC treatments and to discontinue use if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week.
The Role of Proper Hygiene in Hemorrhoid Care
Maintaining good hygiene is crucial when dealing with bleeding hemorrhoids. How can proper cleansing practices help?
- Use soft, unscented toilet paper or wet wipes
- Gently clean the area with warm water after each bowel movement
- Pat the area dry instead of rubbing
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear
- Avoid using harsh soaps or scented products in the anal area
These hygiene practices can help prevent irritation and promote healing of bleeding hemorrhoids.
Medical Interventions: When Professional Treatment Is Necessary
In cases where bleeding hemorrhoids don’t respond to home remedies or OTC treatments, medical interventions may be necessary. What are some common procedures used to treat persistent hemorrhoids?
- Rubber band ligation: A small band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid to shrink it
- Infrared coagulation: Heat is used to destroy hemorrhoidal tissue
- Cryotherapy: Freezing techniques are applied to remove hemorrhoids
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of large or severe hemorrhoids
These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis and can provide long-term relief from bleeding hemorrhoids.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: Modern Approaches to Hemorrhoid Treatment
Advancements in medical technology have led to the development of minimally invasive techniques for treating bleeding hemorrhoids. What are some of these innovative approaches?
- Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD): Uses Doppler guidance to locate and tie off hemorrhoidal arteries
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: Uses a stapling device to reposition hemorrhoidal tissue
- Laser therapy: Employs laser technology to shrink hemorrhoids
These techniques often result in less pain and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical methods.
Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk of Hemorrhoid Bleeding
Preventing hemorrhoids from developing or worsening is key to avoiding bleeding episodes. What lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoid-related issues?
- Maintain a high-fiber diet to promote regular bowel movements
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and prevent constipation
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing
- Don’t strain during bowel movements
- Use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing bleeding hemorrhoids.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet in Hemorrhoid Prevention
A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing hemorrhoids and reducing the risk of bleeding. Which foods should you include in your diet to promote digestive health?
- Whole grains: Brown rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat bread
- Fresh fruits: Apples, pears, and berries
- Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds
Incorporating these fiber-rich foods into your diet can help soften stools and reduce strain during bowel movements, thereby lowering the risk of hemorrhoid bleeding.
When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Bleeding Hemorrhoids
While many cases of bleeding hemorrhoids can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare professional?
- Persistent bleeding that doesn’t improve with home treatment
- Severe pain or discomfort that interferes with daily activities
- Large, painful lumps around the anus
- Signs of infection, such as fever or pus discharge
- Anemia symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath
- Changes in bowel habits or stool color
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation to rule out more serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Differential Diagnosis: Other Causes of Rectal Bleeding
While hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding, other conditions can present similar symptoms. What are some other potential causes of rectal bleeding that should be considered?
- Anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Colorectal polyps or cancer: Abnormal growths in the colon or rectum
- Diverticular disease: Small pouches that form in the colon wall
- Proctitis: Inflammation of the rectal lining
A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause of rectal bleeding and ensure appropriate treatment.
Long-Term Management: Living with Chronic Hemorrhoids
For some individuals, hemorrhoids may be a recurring issue. How can you effectively manage chronic hemorrhoids and minimize the risk of bleeding?
- Maintain a consistent bowel routine
- Use a donut cushion when sitting for long periods
- Practice regular pelvic floor exercises
- Consider using a squatting stool during bowel movements
- Keep the anal area clean and dry
- Use OTC treatments at the first sign of symptoms
By adopting these strategies, individuals with chronic hemorrhoids can reduce the frequency and severity of bleeding episodes and improve their overall quality of life.
The Psychological Impact of Chronic Hemorrhoids
Living with chronic hemorrhoids can have a significant psychological impact on individuals. How can you cope with the emotional aspects of this condition?
- Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
- Consider talking to a therapist about any anxiety or depression related to the condition
- Educate yourself about the condition to feel more in control
- Focus on overall health and well-being, not just the hemorrhoid symptoms
Addressing the psychological aspects of chronic hemorrhoids is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Future Perspectives: Emerging Treatments for Bleeding Hemorrhoids
As medical research continues to advance, new treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids are being developed. What are some promising emerging therapies?
- Stem cell therapy: Using stem cells to promote tissue regeneration
- Nanotechnology: Developing targeted drug delivery systems
- Gene therapy: Addressing genetic factors that may contribute to hemorrhoid development
- Advanced imaging techniques: Improving diagnosis and treatment planning
- Personalized medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual genetic profiles
While many of these treatments are still in the research phase, they offer hope for more effective and less invasive options for managing bleeding hemorrhoids in the future.
The Role of Telemedicine in Hemorrhoid Care
Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, including the management of hemorrhoids. How can virtual consultations benefit patients with bleeding hemorrhoids?
- Increased access to healthcare providers, especially for those in remote areas
- Convenience of consultations from the comfort of home
- Reduced embarrassment for patients discussing sensitive symptoms
- Ability to receive quick follow-up care and medication adjustments
- Opportunity for ongoing monitoring and support
While some cases may still require in-person examinations, telemedicine offers a valuable option for initial consultations and follow-up care for many patients with bleeding hemorrhoids.
Causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Passing a small amount of bright red blood with stool is often the only sign that a person has hemorrhoids.
Straining during a bowel movement is the main reason for bleeding hemorrhoids. Other triggers include diarrhea or constipation and sitting or standing for a long time. They can also happen during pregnancy or after lifting a heavy item.
Signs of bleeding hemorrhoids include bright, red blood staining the toilet paper or feces.
Most people can treat hemorrhoids at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
In this article, we look at why hemorrhoids bleed and what symptoms to look for. We also provide information on home remedies, medical treatments, and when to see a doctor.
Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue inside their anal canals. It consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and muscle.
When a person strains, sneezes, or exerts themselves, hemorrhoidal tissue swells to prevent feces from leaving the body. In most cases, the tissue returns to its usual size, but sometimes, it remains enlarged. When this happens, the enlarged tissue can form hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can bleed:
- after a bowel movement, especially if there is straining
- with diarrhea or constipation
- after sitting or standing for a long time
- during pregnancy
- when lifting a heavy object
- if a blood clot blocks the blood supply, leading to ulceration and dead tissue
Hemorrhoids often remain inside the anal canal, but sometimes they bulge outward from the anus and become visible outside of the body. Either type can bleed, but only external ones are painful.
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are the most common cause of bleeding from the rectum.
If hemorrhoids bleed, a person may see traces or streaks of bright, red blood:
- on tissues after wiping
- in the toilet bowl
- in the stool
If the blood is dark red, the person should notify a doctor as this can indicate a problem higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.
Thrombosed hemorrhoid
A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid.
As the swelling increases, pressure from surrounding tissues or stool can cause the hemorrhoid to rupture and bleed, often at the end of a bowel movement. This can lead to significant bleeding. There may also be severe pain.
A person should seek medical help at once if they notice:
- severe pain
- constant bleeding from the hemorrhoid
- more than a few drops of blood in the toilet bowl, perhaps with blood clots
- a bluish lump on the anus, suggesting a thrombosed hemorrhoid
Anyone with severe bleeding should seek medical help at once.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid also needs urgent treatment. Without treatment, thrombosed hemorrhoids can compress and damage the blood vessels in surrounding, healthy tissues.
If a person has symptoms of hemorrhoids that do not improve after 7 days, they should see a doctor.
What are some other causes of blood in the stool?
Medical treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size of the hemorrhoids, and whether the person has already tried other treatment options.
The following are some treatment options that may take place in a doctor’s office:
- Rubber band ligation involves placing a small band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Hemorrhoids will usually fall off around 5–7 days later.
- Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink. Scarring occurs in the blood vessels, stopping blood from flowing through them.
- Cryotherapy freezes the blood vessels, scarring the tissue and blocking the blood flow.
- Infrared photocoagulation uses a laser to damage hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and slough off.
If a person has large or bulky hemorrhoids or other treatments have not helped, more invasive surgery may be necessary, such as:
- Hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then cut the hemorrhoid away. For large hemorrhoids, a person may need general anesthesia.
- Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will staple the hemorrhoids back inside of the anus.
- Hemorrhoid artery ligation: The doctor stitches the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoid, and it shrinks.
All these procedures aim to tie off the bleeding blood vessels so that they no longer bleed.
Learn more about hemorrhoid surgeries here.
OTC treatments include:
- creams or suppositories containing steroids, which reduce inflammation
- bulk-forming agents that work best when a person takes them in the morning and drinks plenty of fluids during the day
- stool softeners, which may contain polyethylene glycol or docusate
- rectal ointments containing witch hazel
Bleeding hemorrhoids often happen when a person strains when passing stool. Maintaining regular bowel movements can help prevent both hemorrhoids and bleeding. Other preventative measures include:
- increasing fiber intake
- drinking plenty of water
- exercising
Most cases of hemorrhoids resolve with conservative treatment, such as home remedies and OTC medications. Internal hemorrhoids have a 10–50% chance of returning in the next 5 years, but less than 5% after surgery. The chance of external hemorrhoids recurring after conservative treatment is over 50%, but only 5–10% after surgery.
Possible complications of both types of hemorrhoids and surgery include:
- infection
- thrombosis, where a blood clot forms
- incontinence
Following surgery, there is also a 30–50% chance of urinary retention.
Bleeding hemorrhoids can cause concern, but they do not always need medical intervention. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, however, or there is severe pain, a person should contact a doctor.
Adopting a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and bleeding.
A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about hemorrhoid symptoms, there is persistent or heavy bleeding, or they notice dark, red blood. The doctor will discuss treatment options with them and may carry out tests to rule out other conditions.
Here are some questions people often ask about bleeding hemorrhoids.
How do you treat a bleeding hemorrhoid?
To relieve discomfort, a person can take a sitz bath or apply ice wrapped in a cloth. OTC options can also help reduce inflammation and soften stool. Consuming plenty of water and fiber can help improve bowel movements and reduce the risk of straining, making hemorrhoids less likely to bleed.
Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?
In most cases, occasional spotting with bright, red blood is not serious. However, if bleeding continues, there is severe pain, or the blood is dark red, a person should see a doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.
Should I go to a doctor for bleeding hemorrhoids?
A person should see a doctor at once if bleeding is persistent or there is a lot of blood, which may include blood clots. They should also seek help if they notice dark, red blood, which can be a sign of problems in the stomach or intestines.
How long does it take for a bleeding hemorrhoid to heal?
This will depend on the individual, but if it persists longer than a week or the person is unsure why it is happening, they should see a doctor.
Read the article in Spanish.
Causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Passing a small amount of bright red blood with stool is often the only sign that a person has hemorrhoids.
Straining during a bowel movement is the main reason for bleeding hemorrhoids. Other triggers include diarrhea or constipation and sitting or standing for a long time. They can also happen during pregnancy or after lifting a heavy item.
Signs of bleeding hemorrhoids include bright, red blood staining the toilet paper or feces.
Most people can treat hemorrhoids at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
In this article, we look at why hemorrhoids bleed and what symptoms to look for. We also provide information on home remedies, medical treatments, and when to see a doctor.
Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue inside their anal canals. It consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and muscle.
When a person strains, sneezes, or exerts themselves, hemorrhoidal tissue swells to prevent feces from leaving the body. In most cases, the tissue returns to its usual size, but sometimes, it remains enlarged. When this happens, the enlarged tissue can form hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can bleed:
- after a bowel movement, especially if there is straining
- with diarrhea or constipation
- after sitting or standing for a long time
- during pregnancy
- when lifting a heavy object
- if a blood clot blocks the blood supply, leading to ulceration and dead tissue
Hemorrhoids often remain inside the anal canal, but sometimes they bulge outward from the anus and become visible outside of the body. Either type can bleed, but only external ones are painful.
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are the most common cause of bleeding from the rectum.
If hemorrhoids bleed, a person may see traces or streaks of bright, red blood:
- on tissues after wiping
- in the toilet bowl
- in the stool
If the blood is dark red, the person should notify a doctor as this can indicate a problem higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.
Thrombosed hemorrhoid
A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid.
As the swelling increases, pressure from surrounding tissues or stool can cause the hemorrhoid to rupture and bleed, often at the end of a bowel movement. This can lead to significant bleeding. There may also be severe pain.
A person should seek medical help at once if they notice:
- severe pain
- constant bleeding from the hemorrhoid
- more than a few drops of blood in the toilet bowl, perhaps with blood clots
- a bluish lump on the anus, suggesting a thrombosed hemorrhoid
Anyone with severe bleeding should seek medical help at once.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid also needs urgent treatment. Without treatment, thrombosed hemorrhoids can compress and damage the blood vessels in surrounding, healthy tissues.
If a person has symptoms of hemorrhoids that do not improve after 7 days, they should see a doctor.
What are some other causes of blood in the stool?
Medical treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size of the hemorrhoids, and whether the person has already tried other treatment options.
The following are some treatment options that may take place in a doctor’s office:
- Rubber band ligation involves placing a small band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Hemorrhoids will usually fall off around 5–7 days later.
- Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink. Scarring occurs in the blood vessels, stopping blood from flowing through them.
- Cryotherapy freezes the blood vessels, scarring the tissue and blocking the blood flow.
- Infrared photocoagulation uses a laser to damage hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and slough off.
If a person has large or bulky hemorrhoids or other treatments have not helped, more invasive surgery may be necessary, such as:
- Hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then cut the hemorrhoid away. For large hemorrhoids, a person may need general anesthesia.
- Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will staple the hemorrhoids back inside of the anus.
- Hemorrhoid artery ligation: The doctor stitches the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoid, and it shrinks.
All these procedures aim to tie off the bleeding blood vessels so that they no longer bleed.
Learn more about hemorrhoid surgeries here.
OTC treatments include:
- creams or suppositories containing steroids, which reduce inflammation
- bulk-forming agents that work best when a person takes them in the morning and drinks plenty of fluids during the day
- stool softeners, which may contain polyethylene glycol or docusate
- rectal ointments containing witch hazel
Bleeding hemorrhoids often happen when a person strains when passing stool. Maintaining regular bowel movements can help prevent both hemorrhoids and bleeding. Other preventative measures include:
- increasing fiber intake
- drinking plenty of water
- exercising
Most cases of hemorrhoids resolve with conservative treatment, such as home remedies and OTC medications. Internal hemorrhoids have a 10–50% chance of returning in the next 5 years, but less than 5% after surgery. The chance of external hemorrhoids recurring after conservative treatment is over 50%, but only 5–10% after surgery.
Possible complications of both types of hemorrhoids and surgery include:
- infection
- thrombosis, where a blood clot forms
- incontinence
Following surgery, there is also a 30–50% chance of urinary retention.
Bleeding hemorrhoids can cause concern, but they do not always need medical intervention. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, however, or there is severe pain, a person should contact a doctor.
Adopting a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and bleeding.
A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about hemorrhoid symptoms, there is persistent or heavy bleeding, or they notice dark, red blood. The doctor will discuss treatment options with them and may carry out tests to rule out other conditions.
Here are some questions people often ask about bleeding hemorrhoids.
How do you treat a bleeding hemorrhoid?
To relieve discomfort, a person can take a sitz bath or apply ice wrapped in a cloth. OTC options can also help reduce inflammation and soften stool. Consuming plenty of water and fiber can help improve bowel movements and reduce the risk of straining, making hemorrhoids less likely to bleed.
Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?
In most cases, occasional spotting with bright, red blood is not serious. However, if bleeding continues, there is severe pain, or the blood is dark red, a person should see a doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.
Should I go to a doctor for bleeding hemorrhoids?
A person should see a doctor at once if bleeding is persistent or there is a lot of blood, which may include blood clots. They should also seek help if they notice dark, red blood, which can be a sign of problems in the stomach or intestines.
How long does it take for a bleeding hemorrhoid to heal?
This will depend on the individual, but if it persists longer than a week or the person is unsure why it is happening, they should see a doctor.
Read the article in Spanish.
Bleeding with hemorrhoids – treatment and advice
Contents
1. Introduction 2. Causes of rectal bleeding 3. What to do if there is bleeding 4. How to treat bleeding from hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a problem that people of both sexes face. Many mistakenly believe that the disease affects mainly elderly patients. However, in recent years, hemorrhoids have rapidly become “younger”, and more and more often this diagnosis is made to young able-bodied people. In many ways, it is a matter of changing the lifestyle and nutrition of a modern person. Most of the population is engaged in sedentary work, hence the lack of movement and problems with blood circulation. Congestion provokes a deterioration in the outflow of blood from the perianal zone, so hemorrhoids are formed and increase in volume. They provoke hemorrhoids and constipation, which affects up to half of people over 45 years old. You can associate problems with peristalsis and digestion with an unbalanced diet. Lack of fiber in the daily menu, as well as non-compliance with the drinking regimen, an abundance of convenience foods and other unhealthy foods lead to difficult and irregular bowel movements. In addition, the root causes of hemorrhoids include heavy physical exertion, such as lifting weights, as well as pregnancy and childbirth.
Why bleeding occurs
The predominant cause of rectal bleeding in patients with hemorrhoids is trauma to the internal nodes with dense feces. To achieve a bowel movement with constipation, a person has to make an effort and strain. The larger the size of the damaged hemorrhoid, the more abundant the bleeding will be. This is usually a trickle of red blood that comes out after a bowel movement, but some people may also find traces of blood on toilet paper, underwear, or directly in the stool. Not only internal nodes can be injured, but also external ones. For example, you can damage them with tight linen or rough toilet paper. Any increased pressure on the rectal area can provoke bleeding. Including a sharp lifting of a heavy object. In pregnant women, bleeding from the anus is a consequence of the fact that the vascular structures are compressed as a result of an increase in the uterus in size. Hemorrhoidal bleeding does not cause pain, however, regular blood loss is dangerous with long-term consequences. Patients with such symptoms may develop anemic conditions up to chronic iron deficiency. This is manifested by general weakness and loss of strength, pallor, decreased immunity, dizziness. Anemia is especially critical for pregnant women. Against the background of progressive hemorrhoids, other pathologies of the rectum often develop, for example, non-healing and painful anal fissures are formed.
What to do if there is blood
Finding traces of blood in hemorrhoids is not a reason to panic, but a reason to seek qualified medical help. Self-treatment can aggravate the condition and provoke complications. Diseases of the rectum are diagnosed and treated by a coloproctologist – it is to him that you need to make an appointment.
An appointment with a doctor of this specialty involves a survey and examination of the patient. The proctologist will listen to complaints, make a symptomatic picture of the patient’s condition, ask questions about the nature of bleeding, their abundance and frequency of occurrence. To accurately determine the cause of the appearance of blood, the doctor will examine the patient’s anus and rectum. To do this, conduct a finger study, as well as instrumental. Among the instrumental methods, anoscopy and sigmoidoscopy are usually sufficient – these procedures can be performed without complex preparation, it is enough to cleanse the intestines through microclysters. If the doctor decides that a more detailed diagnosis is needed, then a colonoscopy will be prescribed – an endoscopic procedure that allows you to examine the large intestine along its entire length.
How to treat bleeding from hemorrhoids
Treatment of hemorrhoids requires an integrated approach to the problem. If the patient wants to forget about this condition and not face its exacerbations, then he must strictly follow the instructions of the attending physician. Therapy consists of conservative and surgical treatment. Conservative methods include lifestyle changes and dietary changes to normalize digestion and stool. If the root cause of hemorrhoids is not eliminated, but only manipulations are carried out to alleviate the symptoms, then the disease and bleeding will return again and again. The best way to prevent this is to include moderate exercise in your schedule, avoid heavy lifting, work on normalizing your body weight, take care of a balanced diet and prevent constipation.
Drug therapy involves the use of systemic and local drugs. If the patient has the initial stage of hemorrhoids, then bleeding and inflammation can be stopped only by local means, for example, suppositories, creams and ointments with hemostatic, vasotonic and anti-inflammatory effects. As a hemostatic component in such preparations, fibrinogen, thrombin, a polysaccharide extracted from brown algae, is most often used.
For patients, conservative therapy is not effective enough, the doctor will decide whether to include minimally invasive procedures or classical radical surgery. Modern proctology successfully uses progressive low-traumatic methods of working with bleeding hemorrhoids, for example, sclerotherapy, dearterization, latex ligation, etc. Using these procedures, it is possible to stop the blood supply to the node, achieve its gradual natural death and exit along with feces. The advantage of such procedures is that the patient does not need to be hospitalized for their implementation, everything is carried out under local anesthesia, there is no wound tissue damage as a result of exposure. This means that rehabilitation takes a minimum of time and does not force the patient to break the usual rhythm of life. Radical removal of hemorrhoids is indicated in those cases. When minimally invasive procedures cannot be performed due to existing contraindications or anatomical features of the patient. Hemorrhoidectomy involves the removal of pathological tissues, which are the source of bleeding. After the operation, the patient is observed in a hospital from 12 hours to a day, then he can go to his home. Full recovery will take up to 5-6 weeks with an open type of operation, and about 3 – with a closed one. As part of the rehabilitation, pain is possible for the first few days, but for their relief, the doctor will prescribe analgesics. In general, hemorrhoidectomy is an operation whose effectiveness has been tested by time.
By contacting our multidisciplinary center, you will receive the most qualified medical care. Call +7 (4842) 20-70-20!
FAQ
If there are no complaints and the next of kin did not have oncological diseases of the rectum, it is recommended to visit a proctologist every 5 years.
If there are complaints and a genetic predisposition, consult a doctor immediately!
Proctological examination is performed with minimal discomfort for the patient. The diagnosis is made by the doctor, based on the testimony of sigmoidoscopy and anoscopy. These are absolutely painless procedures. Colonoscopy in some cases can be done with anesthesia. But it can not be carried out during pregnancy (with rare exceptions, with a direct threat to life and health).
This is the same proctologist, but in a modern interpretation. According to medical doctrine, a coloproctologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the anus, rectum and large intestine.
Most often, complications of hemorrhoids are manifested in the form of hemorrhoidal bleeding and thrombosis of the node. All this is accompanied by intense pain and causing significant discomfort. Frequent heavy bleeding leads to anemia, which may necessitate a blood transfusion procedure.
You don’t need to bring anything with you! The medical center will provide disposable comfortable underwear and other consumable items. Our task is to solve a delicate problem as comfortably as possible for you.
causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatment and prevention
In case of occurrence or exacerbation of both external and internal hemorrhoids, it is important to choose the right methods of treatment, which can be not only conservative, but also minimally invasive.
On an outpatient basis, without requiring general anesthesia, a long period of rehabilitation and pain relief, such minimally invasive methods of surgical treatment.
Non-surgical treatment of hemorrhoids
Conservative therapy can reduce the duration, frequency, severity of exacerbations. Taking drugs of general action normalizes blood flow, increases venous tone and eliminates inflammation, pain, itching, and prevents thrombosis.
Use of dosage forms for the treatment of hemorrhoids:
- For topical treatment – rectal gels, ointments and suppositories (suppositories): eg ultraproct, relief.
- Tablets for the prevention of constipation, increasing the tone of the veins, stimulating blood and lymph flow, restoring microcirculation.
- For constipation – enzymes, emollient and osmotic laxatives: psyllium, lactulose and macrogol.
- Angioprotectors and phlebotropic drugs are recommended to normalize hemodynamics and restore microcirculation. Of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in severe cases, hormonal drugs, for example, fluocortolone, are used.
Bioflavanoids are recommended for thrombosis of hemorrhoids ; to reduce the risk of bleeding – purified microgenized flavonoid fraction (diosmin + flavonoids in terms of hesperidin) (MPFF).
Ligation with latex rings is one of the most popular modern and less traumatic methods of treating internal hemorrhoids. A latex ring is applied to the leg of the hemorrhoid through an anoscope to disrupt blood circulation in the tissues. Due to their compression, the hemorrhoid is rejected after 1-2 weeks.
Sclerotherapy is the most effective procedure only for small hemorrhoids, during which the inner lining of the venous wall is affected with the help of special preparations – sclerosants. They are introduced into the hemorrhoidal node and lead to pathology, followed by gluing of the deformed vein, which dies off without participating in the blood circulation process. The technique does not exclude the risk of recurrence.
Infrared photocoagulation – a method of temperature exposure to the hemorrhoid. The coagulator is applied to the hemorrhoid at 3-5 points so that a 2-3 mm burn appears. After some time, the damaged hemorrhoid disappears. The morbidity of the method is low, on the same day or a day later, patients are ready for work.
Surgical techniques
- Hemorrhoidectomy – surgical removal.
- Laser removal of hemorrhoids.
- Deartherization is a minimally invasive operation aimed at ligation of hemorrhoidal vessels.
In the third and fourth stages of the disease, with bleeding, frequent relapses and thrombosis of hemorrhoids, surgery is resorted to, during the surgical method, the hemorrhoid is excised along with part of the mucous membrane. Surgery and surgical intervention is considered one of the most effective, relapses are minimized.
The essence of the modern, painless and effective method is to cauterize vessels with a laser beam. This operation takes 15 minutes, takes place under local anesthesia and does not require a long stay of the patient in the hospital.
As a result, blood stops flowing to the hemorrhoids, they are deprived of nutrition and disappear. The HAL-RAR technique is highly effective, painless and does not require a long recovery.
The tactics of treatment depends on the clinical manifestations, the stage of the disease and the results of the diagnosis. The best conservative treatment of hemorrhoids, which is recommended in the first and second stages in the form of minimally invasive methods, is sclerotherapy, photocoagulation, ligation, or a combination of them. In the third and fourth stages, surgery is required in most cases.
Preparation for surgery includes:
- three days of diet;
- enema before surgery or taking Fortrans 1 glass every quarter of an hour;
- sometimes – antibiotics.
The period after surgery includes dressings and diet. The first stool occurs after 5-7 days, may be painful, with little bleeding.
If the patient is not provided with timely medical care, then necrosis and ulceration of the mucous membrane occurs. Sometimes purulent paraproctitis develops in adipose tissue, in severe cases – sepsis.