Hemorrhoids: what are we talking about exactly?
First thing to know: everyone has hemorrhoids. These small blood vessels which are found both in the anus duct (these are the internal hemorrhoids, present under the lining of the anal canal) and under the skin around the folds of the anus (these are the external hemorrhoids, just at the level of the orifice) play a role in particular in anal continence.
Yes, but here it is: when the venous pressure increases in the anorectal region, the small blood vessels that make up the hemorrhoidal network dilate abnormally and “lumps” form in the anus (inside or outside). This causes irritation: it is hemorrhoidal disease, commonly called “hemorrhoids”.
To know. In France, around 1 in 2 adults over the age of 50 has already suffered a “hemorrhoidal crisis”. The peak prevalence of “hemorrhoidal disease” is between 45 years and 60 years.
Bleeding hemorrhoids: is it normal?
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease? A “hemorrhoid attack” is characterized by easily recognizable symptoms:
- Sharp pain. This is usually accompanied by a feeling of heat, heaviness and / or swelling in the anus. The pain is aggravated by defecation and exercise; she is relieved by lying down.
- Bleeding. Hemorrhoids are usually accompanied by bleeding through the anus – this is called rectal bleeding. This blood in the stool is visible during (or after) going to the toilet, and is of varying importance: a few red marks on the toilet paper, stains in the underwear, reddish toilet water, splashes of blood in the bowl …
- A prolapse. This phenomenon (which occurs rather when the hemorrhoidal disease is advanced) occurs when the internal hemorrhoids “come out” outside the anus: very concretely, we can then feel a large “ball” (or swelling) in the area. anal. Anal itching can be added to this prolapse.
And also… When the hemorrhoidal disease evolves for several years (it is said that it becomes chronic), we can observe daily pain, frequent bleeding (which can even lead to anemia), permanent prolapse, defecation disorders (“false needs “) or anal discharge (pus …).
To know. While hemorrhoidal disease is more common with age, hemorrhoid attacks are also more likely to affect pregnant women, people who regularly suffer from constipation, people who are very sedentary, and people who are overweight or obese.
Bleeding hemorrhoids: how to cure?
Against hemorrhoids, the general practitioner may prescribe medication (local topicals and venous tonics: Diosmine®, Daflon® …). Warning: anti-inflammatory drugs are strictly contraindicated during pregnancy.
Alternative medicine can also help with painful hemorrhoidal crisis with anal bleeding:
- Homeopathy. In the event of a very painful hemorrhoidal crisis aggravated by a hot application, with bleeding and throbbing sensations: take Lachesis 5 CH, 2 granules 3 times a day until improvement. In the event of a very painful hemorrhoidal crisis improved by a warm application, with anal bleeding: take Lycopodium 5 CH, 2 granules 3 times a day until improvement.
- Aromatherapy. In a bottle, mix 2 drops of peppermint essential oil (vasoconstrictor and anesthetic), 2 drops of pistachio lentisk essential oil (venous decongestant, anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictor), 1 drop of Italian helichrysum essential oil (healing) and 95 drops of calophyllous vegetable oil (healing and protective of blood vessels). Apply locally 4 drops of the mixture, 3 times a day. This synergy is reserved for adults; it is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women, in children, in people suffering from gallbladder disorders, in people on anticoagulant treatment and in women suffering from very heavy periods.
- Phytotherapy. In a pot of 250 mL of cold water, throw 1 handful of finely chopped oak bark (astringent, antiseptic and anesthetic), 2 tbsp. to c. marigold flowers (anti-inflammatory and pain reliever) and 2 tbsp. to s. witch hazel leaves (vasoconstrictor, anti-itching and healing). Infuse over low heat for 15-20 minutes, filter and let cool. Take a sitz bath with this herbal tea for 10 to 15 minutes, once or twice a day. You can also soak compresses with this herbal tea and leave them in place locally for 15 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day.
Thanks to Dr. Sandrine Brugère, gynecologist and member of the National Federation of Colleges of Medical Gynecology (FNCGM).
Sources:
The great book of homeopathy –Dr. Dominique-Jean Sayous, ed. Eyrolles.
The Living Earth guide to natural health – Dr. Christine Cieur, ed. Living Earth
Read also :
⋙ I have a hemorrhoid attack: which doctor to consult?
⋙ Relieve a hemorrhoid attack with homeopathy: instructions for use
⋙ Hemorrhoids: our natural solutions to test in the event of a crisis