Digestive health

A high percentage of patients who suffer from constipation have a problem with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are larger or smaller nodes of varicose veins in the anorectum (the final part of the colon). Every fourth person has this at least once in life, and every other person is older than 50 years!

The occurrence of hemorrhoids is influenced by many factors, but the most common causes are:

• heritage,
• poor diet,
• sitting and lack of physical activity,
• constipation,
• pregnancy,
• certain diseases of the digestive system.

It is easy to recognize the symptoms

Feeling of pressure in the anal area that lasts, itching, burning, pain, bleeding ... Surely it will not be difficult to recognize the symptoms and problems among those listed. Itching often occurs due to excessive hygiene of the anal region which patients wash several times a day, by using the soap. Consequently, the natural defense mechanisms of the skin and mucous membranes become weaker, and due to the higher sensitivity the occurrence of eczematous changes is possible, which are frequent in use of suppositories and ointments for the treatment of hemorrhoids. Namely, the ointments and the liquids which are applied to the affected area are often changed, which results in increased irritation and itching. The pain occurs due to inflammation of hemorrhoidal nodes that can often become thrombus and trapped. It can be so severe that patients are unable to work for days.

How to distinguish between internal and external hemorrhoids?

External hemorrhoids are located along the outer part of the anus and are covered by very sensitive skin. If one of them develops a clot (thrombus), swelling is formed at the exit of the anal canal, and we feel them as hard and painful bulge. They bleed only if they break.

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the anus. The most common symptoms are painless hemorrhage and protrusion outside the anus during defecation (discharge). If they cannot return to the anal canal, it may cause severe pain. Chronic bleeding (slightly longer period) can cause anemia, which is common in women who are bleeding from the hemorrhoids and also have abundant menstruation.

The question of the causal connection between hemorrhoids and colon cancer arises frequently. It is believed that there is no causal link, although the symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease are similar to symptoms of colorectal cancer. Therefore, patients should visit a doctor to establish the diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible.

Treatment of hemorrhoids

Unpleasant symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease are usually treated by a combination of specific diet and application of anti-hemorrhoidal preparations in the form of ointments and suppositories. Often mild laxatives are included because bowel movements in these patients are very difficult.

Various preparations are used:

• Mild soothing cream, ointment or suppository may ease discomfort. Refer to the specialized pharmacy section which contains our products that can relieve the symptoms caused by hemorrhoids.
• Preparation containing anesthetic is more likely to ease the pain. It should be used for only short periods of time (5-7 days). If used longer, anesthetic can irritate the skin around the anus or make it sensitive.
• The doctor may recommend a preparation containing a steroid if there is a strong inflammation around the hemorrhoids. Steroids reduce inflammation and may help reduce swelling around the hemorrhoids. This may ease the itching and pain. Do not use cream or ointment containing steroids for over a week.
• Very painful hemorrhoids that are placed outside the anus are not very common. The pain can be relieved by placing cold compresses (bags of ice) on the hemorrhoids for 15-30 minutes. You may also need strong analgesics (painkillers).
• Hemorrhoids formed during pregnancy usually subside after childbirth. Treatment is similar to the abovementioned. Preparations which are safe for pregnant women can be found in the part of pharmacy especially intended for them.