Hemorrhoids also referred to as piles, results from dilation or swelling of veins around the anus and the rectum. They are classified into internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the anal canal. External hemorrhoids are usually visible around the anal opening.
Piles can lead to bleeding due to rupture of the veins, but may go undetected for several years in absence of bleeding. Anal fissures on the other hand refer to tears along the mucosal lining of the anus.
Causes Of Anal Fissure And Hemorrhoid
Hemorrhoids are typically caused due to repeated pressure on the anal veins.
Individuals with obstinate constipation or tendency to strain during stools are more likely to develop piles. Piles can also occur as a result on obesity, pregnancy or loss of muscular tone associated with advancing age.
Anal fissures are caused due to injury to the anal linings either due to inflammatory bowel disorders or infection. Other causes include rectal surgery or episiotomy, anal intercourse, colon malignancy and alcoholism with cirrhosis. Anal fissures are also common in individuals suffering from immune-compromised conditions like HIV or tuberculosis.
Hemorrhoid Vs Anal Fissure Symptoms
Both these conditions tend to have certain common symptoms which include burning and irritation around the anus, which is usually aggravated while passing stools.
Internal piles may be associated with blood stained streaks in the stools. External piles may be associated fresh bleeding before or after the passage of stools.
Anal fissures are often associated with streaks of blood along with the stools with severe burning. Pain is uncommon in case of piles, but fissures are associated with throbbing pain while passing stools.
Diagnosis can be confirmed after a careful evaluation of the anal area by a surgeon. Occasionally sigmoidoscopy may be required to confirm the presence of internal piles or fissures.
Home Remedies For Hemorrhoid And Anal Fissure
Here are some simple home remedies and natural treatment options that can help deal with both the conditions,
- Local application of ice packs around the anal area can help alleviate pain and bleeding. Ice results in vasoconstriction and slows down the inflammatory response. It also has a soothing effect on the mucosal lining.
- Ensure that you drink a lot of water. Water helps soften the stools which in turn reduces the irritation as they pass through the anus. This in turn reduces the severity of pain and bleeding.
- Increase the intake of dietary fiber. Whole wheat, whole grains, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables and beans are loaded with dietary fiber, which help deal with obstinate constipation.
- Homeopathic drugs like Bryonia can be beneficial in treating constipation, which in turn alleviates the symptoms associated with piles and fissures.
- Avoid straining during stools. Straining will only aggravate the symptoms. Alternatively have a fixed schedule each day, which helps promote gastric motility.
- Sitz bath is recommended. Fill the tub with warm water and add a few drops of an antiseptic to it. Sit in the tub for about 15 to 20 minutes, twice a day. This helps in preventing secondary infections and hastens the healing process.
- Obesity also increases the chances of anal fissures and piles. Lose weight with a healthy dietary regimen. Exercise regularly. Exercising can help improve gastric motility and also strengthen the anal muscles and prevent piles.
Conservative measures can help deal with 80 to 90% of these cases. However, if your symptoms persist it is important to take medical advice.
