Hemorrhoids and Piles: What’s the Difference?

Hemorrhoids and piles are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but do they refer to the same thing? The short answer is yes, they do. However, the difference lies in the location of the swollen veins. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They can develop internally, inside the rectum, or externally, around the anal opening.

Piles, on the other hand, specifically refer to swollen veins around the anal opening. Both conditions share similar symptoms, such as discomfort, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements, but the treatment may vary depending on the location and severity.

In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the world of hemorrhoids and piles, discussing their causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help you understand the difference and find relief from this common and often uncomfortable condition.

Understanding Hemorrhoids and Their Causes

Hemorrhoids are when the veins in your bottom get swollen and hurt. It happens because of a few reasons. One big reason is pushing too hard to go to the bathroom. If you sit for a long time, like watching TV all day, this can also make hemorrhoids happen.

Eating food that doesn’t have enough fiber can make it hard to go to the bathroom, which can cause hemorrhoids. Being very heavy or having a baby can push on these veins, too. Some people get them because their families have them, which means it can be something that runs in families. So, these are ways people can get hemorrhoids.

Common Symptoms Associated with Hemorrhoids

When someone has hemorrhoids, they might feel some uncomfortable signs. These signs tell us that those swollen veins are causing trouble. One big sign is feeling pain or soreness near the bottom, especially when sitting down. It can feel uncomfortable. Another sign is seeing a little blood on the toilet paper after going to the bathroom. It can be scary, but it’s a common sign of hemorrhoids. Sometimes, it might feel itchy or like something is bothering the bottom.

In some cases, there can be a lump that feels sore near the anus, which is the outside part where poop comes out. These signs help doctors know someone has hemorrhoids. Many people get these signs, so it’s nothing to be too worried about, but talking to a doctor can help improve things.

Diagnosing Hemorrhoids: What to Expect

When you go to the doctor because your bottom hurts or you notice bleeding, they might check to see if you have hemorrhoids. The doctor will ask you how you feel and what signs you’ve noticed. They might look at your bottom area to see the swollen veins.

For internal hemorrhoids, the ones inside, the doctor might use a small, lighted tube to look inside your bottom. It doesn’t hurt, but it might feel a little weird. They do this to make sure they know what’s bothering you. The doctor wants to help you feel better, so they must look carefully. After checking, they will tell you how to help your bottom stop hurting and ensure it doesn’t bother you again.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Hemorrhoids

If you have hemorrhoids, you should know about easy ways to help make them better right at home. You can go to a store and find some creams or ointments that you put on the sore spot. These can help it feel less itchy and hurt less. Wipes and pads are soaked with witch hazel, which you can use after going to the bathroom to help clean gently and reduce itchiness.

Some people like to use a spray that you can put on the sore area without touching it, making it feel better, too. If it feels painful, there are particular cushions called donut cushions that make sitting down not hurt as much. Always remember, if you need help deciding what to use, you can ask your mom, dad, or a grown-up to help pick the right thing.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hemorrhoids

You can do simple things at home to help make hemorrhoids feel better. First, try to eat more foods that are good for you, like fruits and vegetables. They make going to the bathroom more accessible. Drink plenty of water every day. It also helps a lot. Sitting in a warm bath can make your bottom feel better. Do this for 10 to 15 minutes, especially after going to the bathroom.

Moving more is also good. Try not to sit or stand for too long. Taking short walks can help. Don’t wait too long when you need to go to the bathroom; take your time. Go as soon as you feel you need to. It can help stop hemorrhoids from getting worse. Remember, these simple changes can make a big difference.

When to Seek Professional Medical Treatment

Sometimes, even when trying things at home, hemorrhoids can still make you feel terrible. If the pain is too much, it doesn’t go away, or if you see a lot of blood, it’s time to see a doctor. If you try to go to the bathroom and it hurts or nothing comes out, you should tell an adult. These are signs that you need more help from a doctor to improve.

Doctors are good at helping with this and can give you particular medicine or advice on what to do next. They are there to ensure you feel okay again, so don’t be scared to ask for help if your bottom is bothering you.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Hemorrhoids

To keep away from getting hemorrhoids, there are some easy things you can do. Make sure you eat plenty of fruits and veggies. They help you go to the bathroom smoothly without pushing too hard. Drinking lots of water is also super important. It keeps everything moving quickly inside your tummy.

Try to avoid sitting or standing in one place for a long time. Moving around is good for your body and helps stop hemorrhoids from happening. Also, take the time when you need to go to the bathroom. Go as soon as you can. Doing these things can help keep your bottom happy and free from hemorrhoids.

FAQs

 Can kids get hemorrhoids?

Yes, kids can get them, too, just like grown-ups.

·  Does it hurt to treat hemorrhoids?

Most treatments don’t hurt. Things like warm baths or creams can help without any pain.

·  Can play outside stop hemorrhoids?

Yes! Moving and playing helps a lot because sitting too long can worsen them.

·  Do I have to go to the doctor if I think I have hemorrhoids?

If it hurts a lot, keeps hurting, or you see blood, tell an adult and see a doctor.

·  Can eating fruits help?

Yes, fruits and veggies make going to the bathroom more accessible, which can help a lot.

Conclusion

In this blog, we talked a lot about hemorrhoids, which are also called piles. They can hurt your bottom, but many ways can help it feel better. Eating lots of fruits and veggies, drinking water, and not sitting or standing too long are good ways to keep your bottom happy. Warm baths and moving around can help, too.

Talking to a doctor is a brilliant idea if your bottom hurts or keeps hurting. They know how to make you feel better. Many people have this problem, so you’re not alone. Taking care of your body by eating right, drinking water, and staying active can help you avoid piles. Let’s keep our bottoms happy and healthy!