Hemorrhoids in women: causes and approaches to treatment

Hemorrhoids in women: causes and approaches to treatment

Hemorrhoids are a common disease characterized by the expansion and inflammation of hemorrhoidal veins in the anus and rectum. Although hemorrhoids can occur among representatives of both sexes, in women it has a number of specific features associated with physiological processes, pregnancy and childbirth. In this article, we will examine in detail the causes of hemorrhoids in women, features of the clinical picture, diagnostic methods and modern approaches to treatment.

I. Anatomy and physiology of hemorrhoidal veins

Before talking about pathology, it is necessary to understand the normal structure and function of hemorrhoidal veins. In the area of ​​the anal canal and rectum, there are two main venous plexuses: internal and external.

• Inner hemorrhoids plexus It is located under the mucous membrane of the rectum, above the gear line (Hilton line). These veins do not have pain receptors, therefore, with the development of internal hemorrhoids in the early stages, the pain is usually absent. Internal hemorrhoidal nodes perform an important function: they help maintain the tightness of the anal canal and participate in the act of defecation.
• External hemorrhoidal plexus It is located under the skin around the anus, below the gear line. The veins of this plexus contain pain receptors, so inflammation or thrombosis of external hemorrhoidal nodes is accompanied by severe pain.

The normal functioning of hemorrhoidal veins is ensured by the elasticity of their walls, as well as the tone of the muscles that support venous plexuses. However, under the influence of various factors, these veins can expand, become thinner and lose elasticity, which leads to the formation of hemorrhoids.

II. Causes of hemorrhoids in women: complex analysis

The reasons for the development of hemorrhoids in women are diverse and include both general risk factors and specific, associated with female physiology.

• Pregnancy: Pregnancy is one of the main risk factors for the development of hemorrhoids in women. During pregnancy in the body of a woman, significant hormonal changes occur, in particular, the level of progesterone increases. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles, including the walls of hemorrhoidal veins, which contributes to their expansion. In addition, the growing uterus exerts pressure on the pelvic organs, making it difficult to outflow of blood from hemorrhoidal veins and causing their overflow. Construction, which often accompany pregnancy, also increase the risk of hemorrhoids.

• Birth: The process of childbirth, especially the attentive period, exerts tremendous pressure on the pelvis and perineum. Strong attempts can lead to a sharp increase in pressure in hemorrhoidal veins, causing their stretching and the formation of hemorrhoids. The risk of developing hemorrhoids after childbirth is especially high in women who already had signs of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

• Constipation: Chronic constipation is one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids in both women and men. With constipation, straining occurs during defecation, which increases pressure in hemorrhoidal veins. A hard chair injures the mucous membrane of the rectum and anal canal, causing inflammation and bleeding. The lack of fiber in the diet, a sedentary lifestyle and insufficient fluid intake contribute to the development of constipation.

• Inal meals: An unbalanced diet with a lack of fiber and an excess of fatty, spicy and salty foods can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. The fiber contained in vegetables, fruits and whole grain products increases the volume of feces, facilitates defecation and prevents constipation. Acute and salty food can irritate the mucous membrane of the rectum and cause inflammation.

• Sedentary lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, especially the work associated with a long stay in a sitting position, worsens blood circulation in the pelvic organs and promotes blood stagnation in hemorrhoidal veins. The lack of physical activity also contributes to the development of constipation.

• Genetic predisposition: The hereditary weakness of the walls of hemorrhoidal veins can be predisposed to the development of hemorrhoids. If close relatives (parents, brothers, sisters) had hemorrhoids, then the risk of developing the disease is increasing.

• Anal sex: Anal sex can injure the mucous membrane of the rectum and anal canal, causing inflammation and bleeding. Repeated injuries can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.

• Inflammatory intestinal diseases: Inflammatory diseases of the intestine, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause chronic inflammation in the rectum and anal canal, which contributes to the development of hemorrhoids.

• Balloon tumors: The pelvic tumors can put pressure on hemorrhoidal veins, complicating the outflow of blood and causing their expansion.

• Hard physical labor: The lifting of weights and other types of heavy physical labor associated with straining can increase pressure in hemorrhoidal veins and contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.

• Obesity: Excessive weight creates an additional load on the pelvic organs and promotes blood stagnation in hemorrhoidal veins.

• Aging: With age, the walls of hemorrhoidal veins lose their elasticity, which increases the risk of hemorrhoids.

III. Classification of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are classified according to various criteria, including the localization of hemorrhoidal nodes and the stage of development of the disease.

• By localization:

  • Inner hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, above the toothed line.
  • External hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are located outside the anus, below the gear line.
  • Combined hemorrhoids: There are both internal and external hemorrhoids.

• At the stage of development (for internal hemorrhoids):

  • Stage I: The nodes are slightly enlarged and can fall out during defecation, but they are adjusted independently. The main symptom is periodic bleeding.
  • Stage II: The nodes fall out during defecation and require manual reduction. Bleeding becomes more frequent and abundant.
  • Stage III: The nodes fall out at the slightest voltage (cough, sneezing, weight lifting) and require manual reduction.
  • Stage IV: The nodes constantly fall out and do not get better.

IV. Symptoms of hemorrhoids in women: recognition of the problem

Symptoms of hemorrhoids in women can vary depending on the type of hemorrhoids, the stage of development of the disease and the individual characteristics of the body.

• Bleeding: Bleeding from the anal canal is one of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids. Blood usually appears during or after defecation and can be in the form of drops on toilet paper, in the toilet or on feces. Bleeding with hemorrhoids is usually painless, but anemia can develop with abundant bleeding.

• Pain and discomfort: The pain in the anal canal can be of various intensity and character. With external hemorrhoids, the pain is usually acute and intense, especially with thrombosis of the hemorrhoid node. With internal hemorrhoids, the pain may be insignificant or absent, but can be intensified during defecation or when the nodes fall out. Many women also experience itching, burning and feeling of discomfort in the anal canal.

• Gemorroid nodes loss: The loss of hemorrhoidal nodes is a characteristic symptom of internal hemorrhoids. In the early stages, nodes fall out only during defecation and settled independently. As the disease progresses, the nodes fall out at the slightest voltage and require manual reduction. In the later stages, the nodes constantly fall out and do not get better.

• Itching and burning: Itching and burning in the anal canal can be caused by irritation of the skin around the anus due to inflammation of the hemorrhoidal nodes, the release of mucus or fecal incontinence.

• Foreign body sensation: Many women with hemorrhoids have a feeling of a foreign body in the anal canal.

• Hemorrhoid thrombosis: Thrombosis of the hemorrhoidal node is an acute state characterized by the formation of a blood clot in the lumen of the hemorrhoidal vein. Thrombosis is accompanied by sharp pain, edema and seal in the anus.

• Grounding of mucus: With hemorrhoids, the release of mucus from the anal canal can be observed, which can cause skin irritation around the anus and itching.

It is important to note that the symptoms of hemorrhoids can be similar to the symptoms of other diseases of the rectum and anal canal, such as anal cracks, paraproctitis, polyps and cancer of the rectum. Therefore, when any symptoms appear, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and exclude other diseases.

V. Diagnosis of hemorrhoids in women: integrated approach

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids in women includes an anamnesis collection, physical examination and instrumental research methods.

• A history of history: The doctor asks the patient about the symptoms, their duration and intensity, as well as the factors that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids (pregnancy, childbirth, constipation, malnutrition, sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition).

• Physical inspection: Physical inspection includes examination of the area of ​​the anal opening and a finger examination of the rectum. On examination, the doctor assesses the condition of the skin around the anus, the presence of external hemorrhoidal nodes, signs of inflammation and bleeding. A finger examination of the rectum allows you to assess the condition of the internal hemorrhoidal nodes, to identify the presence of tumors and other pathological formations.

• Instrumental research methods:

  • Anoscopy: Anoscopy is a research method in which a doctor examines the mucous membrane of the anal canal using a special tool (anoscope). Anoscopy allows you to identify internal hemorrhoidal nodes, anal cracks, polyps and other pathological changes.
  • Rexoroscopy: Sectoroscopy is a research method in which a doctor with the help of a special tool (stomamonoscope) examines the mucous membrane of the rectum to a depth of 20-30 cm. Rectoroscopy allows you to detect inflammatory diseases of the intestine, polyps and tumors of the rectum.
  • Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is a research method in which a doctor with the help of a special tool (colonoscope) examines the mucous membrane of the colon throughout. Colonoscopy allows you to identify inflammatory diseases of the intestines, polyps and tumors of the colon. Colonoscopy is usually prescribed in cases when other diseases of the colon are necessary, especially in patients over 50 years old.

In some cases, additional research methods can be prescribed, such as the analysis of feces for hidden blood and irrigoscopy.

VI. Approaches to the treatment of hemorrhoids in women: complex therapy

Treatment of hemorrhoids in women should be complex and individual, taking into account the stage of development of the disease, the presence of concomitant diseases and individual characteristics of the body. Treatment may include conservative methods, minimally invasive procedures and surgery.

• Conservative treatment: Conservative treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms of hemorrhoids, preventing the progression of the disease and improving the quality of life of the patient.

  • Diet: Diet plays an important role in the treatment of hemorrhoids. It is recommended to eat foods rich in fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grain products) to increase the volume of feces and facilitate defecation. It is also necessary to use a sufficient amount of liquid (at least 1.5-2 liters per day) to prevent constipation. The use of spicy, salty, fatty and fried foods, as well as alcohol, should be avoided, as they can irritate the mucous membrane of the rectum and cause inflammation.

  • Mode: It is recommended to lead an active lifestyle, regularly engage in physical exercises to improve blood circulation in the pelvic organs and prevent constipation. A long -term stay in a sitting position and weight lifting should be avoided.

  • Hygiene: It is important to observe the hygiene of the area of ​​the anal hole. After each defecation, it is recommended to wash with cool water or use wet wipes. The use of hard toilet paper should be avoided, as it can irritate the skin around the anus.

  • Medication: Drug treatment includes the use of various drugs to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms.

    • Local drugs: Local drugs (ointments, creams, gels, suppositories) are used to relieve pain, itching, inflammation and bleeding. They contain various components, such as anesthetics (lidocaine, benzocaine), corticosteroids (hydrocortisone, prednisone), anticoagulants (heparin), venotonics (Troxerutin, diosmine), antiseptics and healing components. Examples of local drugs: Proctosan, Relief, Hepatrombin G, Posterizan, Aurobin.
    • Venotons: Venotonics (diosmine, gesperidine, troxerutin) strengthen the walls of hemorrhoidal veins, improve blood microcirculation and reduce inflammation. They are used to treat chronic hemorrhoids for the prevention of its exacerbations.
    • Laxatives: Laxatives are used to treat constipation. It is recommended to use soft laxatives, such as lactulose, macrogol, senna, which do not cause addiction and do not irritate the intestines.
    • Anesthesia: Anesthesia (paracetamol, ibuprofen) are used to relieve pain in acute hemorrhoids or with thrombosis of the hemorrhoid node.
    • Anti -inflammatory drugs: Anti -inflammatory drugs (diclofenac, nimesulide) are used to reduce inflammation in acute hemorrhoids or with thrombosis of the hemorrhoid node.

• Small -invasive procedures: Small-invasive procedures are used to treat I-III hemorrhoids when conservative treatment is ineffective.

  • Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy is a treatment method in which a sclerosing drug is introduced into the hemorrhoid node, which causes its gluing and reduction in size. Sclerotherapy is usually used to treat bleeding hemorrhoidal nodes of the I-II stage.
  • Ligating with latex rings: Ligating with latex rings is a treatment method in which a latex ring is applied to the base of the hemorrhoidal node, which squeezes the blood supply to the node. A few days later, the knot dies and disappears with the ring. Ligating with latex rings is usually used to treat hemorrhoidal nodes of the II-III stage.
  • Infrared photocoagulation: Infrared photocoagulation is a treatment method in which the hemorrhoidal node is cauterized using infrared radiation. Infrared photocoagulation is usually used to treat bleeding hemorrhoidal nodes of the I-II stage.
  • Radio frequency ablation: Radio frequency ablation is a treatment method in which the hemorrhoid node is destroyed using radio frequency energy. Radio frequency ablation is an effective and safe method for treating hemorrhoids, which avoids surgical intervention.
  • Lasersnaya coagulation: Laser coagulation is a treatment method in which the hemorrhoidal node is cauterized using laser radiation. Laser coagulation is an effective and painless method of treating hemorrhoids.

• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment is used to treat hemorrhoids of the IV stage when conservative treatment and minimally invasive procedures are ineffective.

  • Hemorrhoidctomy: Hemorrhoidctomy is the surgical removal of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidctomy is an effective method of treating hemorrhoids, but it is accompanied by severe pain in the postoperative period and requires prolonged recovery.
  • Longo operation: Longo operation is a surgical operation in which a section of the rectum mucosa is removed above the hemorrhoidal nodes. This leads to a decrease in blood flow to the nodes and their reduction in size. Longo operation is less painful than hemorrhoidctomy, and requires a shorter recovery period.
  • Transanal dearteria of hemorrhoids (ThD): ThD is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which arteries that feed hemorrhoidal nodes are bandaged. This leads to a decrease in blood flow to the nodes and their reduction in size. Thd is less painful than hemorrhoidctomy, and requires a shorter recovery period.

The choice of the method of treating hemorrhoids depends on the stage of development of the disease, the presence of concomitant diseases and individual characteristics of the body. It is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and determine the optimal treatment plan.

VII. Hemorrhoids during pregnancy and after childbirth: Features of treatment

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy and after childbirth requires a special approach to treatment, since some treatment methods are contraindicated during this period.

• Conservative treatment: Conservative treatment is the main method of treating hemorrhoids during pregnancy and after childbirth. It is recommended to observe a diet rich in fiber, use a sufficient amount of fluid, lead an active lifestyle and observe hygiene of the area of ​​the anus. Local drugs (ointments, creams, suppositories) containing natural components (sea buckthorn oil, calendula, propolis) can be used to relieve pain, itching and inflammation. Venotonics and laxatives should be used only as prescribed by a doctor.

• Small -invasive procedures: Small -invasive procedures, such as sclerotherapy and leagging with latex rings, are usually not recommended during pregnancy.

• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment of hemorrhoids during pregnancy is carried out only in extreme cases, when conservative treatment is ineffective and the condition of the woman worsens. After childbirth, surgical treatment can be carried out after a few months, after the restoration of the body.

VIII. Hemorrhoid prevention in women: preventing the problem

Prevention of hemorrhoids in women includes compliance with simple rules that will help prevent the development of the disease.

• Diet: Use products rich in fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grain products), and a sufficient amount of liquid (at least 1.5-2 liters per day). Avoid the use of spicy, salty, fatty and fried food, as well as alcohol.
• Mode: Lead an active lifestyle, regularly engage in physical exercises. Avoid a long stay in a sitting position and weight lifting.
• Hygiene: Follow the hygiene of the anus. After each defecation, wash yourself with cool water or use wet wipes.
• Regular bowel movements: Try to empty the intestines regularly, do not allow constipation.
• Avoid straining: Avoid strong straining during defecation.
• Timely treatment: Timely treat diseases that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids (constipation, inflammatory intestinal diseases).
• Consultation with a doctor: If any symptoms appear that indicate hemorrhoids, consult a doctor for diagnosis and prescribing treatment.
• Preventive examinations: Regularly undergo preventive examinations with a professional doctor, especially if you have risk factors for the development of hemorrhoids.

Compliance with these simple rules will help prevent the development of hemorrhoids and maintain health.

IX. Psychological aspects of hemorrhoids in women

Hemorrhoids, like any other disease, can influence the psychological state of a woman. Symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as pain, bleeding, itching and discomfort, can cause anxiety, depression and a decrease in self -esteem. Many women are embarrassed to see a doctor about hemorrhoids, which can lead to a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. It is important to remember that hemorrhoids are a common disease that is successfully treated. Feel free to see a doctor for help and support. The doctor will help you cope with the symptoms of hemorrhoids and improve the quality of life.

X. Modern trends in the treatment of hemorrhoids

In recent years, there has been a tendency to use minimally invasive methods of treating hemorrhoids that avoid surgical intervention and reduce the recovery period. New drugs and treatment methods are being developed, which are aimed at alleviating the symptoms of hemorrhoids and improving the quality of life of patients. Much attention is paid to the prevention of hemorrhoids, especially in women during pregnancy and after childbirth.

XI. Alternative methods for treating hemorrhoids (with caution)

Some women resort to alternative methods for treating hemorrhoids, such as herbal medicine, homeopathy and acupuncture. However, the effectiveness of these methods is not scientifically proven, and their use can be unsafe. Before using alternative methods of treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

XII. Life with hemorrhoids: adaptation and support

Life with hemorrhoids can be complex, but with the right approach you can adapt to the disease and preserve the quality of life. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations, lead a healthy lifestyle and maintain a positive attitude. Communication with other women suffering from hemorrhoids can help cope with a sense of loneliness and get support.

XIII. Hemorrhoids and quality of life: restoration of comfort

Hemorrhoids can significantly reduce the quality of life of a woman, causing pain, discomfort and restriction in everyday activity. However, with the help of proper treatment and prevention, you can restore comfort and return to a full life. It is important to remember that hemorrhoids are not a sentence, but a disease that can be controlled.

XIV. Myths and errors about hemorrhoids

There are many myths and misconceptions about hemorrhoids. It is important to know the truth about the disease in order to avoid unnecessary fears and make the right decision on treatment.

• Myth: Hemorrhoids are a sign of old age.
  • Reality: Hemorrhoids can occur at any age, although with age the risk of developing the disease increases.
• Myth: Hemorrhoids are an infectious disease.
  • Reality: Hemorrhoids are not an infectious disease.
• Myth: Hemorrhoids can only be cured surgically.
  • Reality: Hemorrhoids can be treated with conservative methods, minimally invasive procedures and surgically. The choice of treatment method depends on the stage of development of the disease.
• Myth: Bleeding from the anal canal is always a sign of hemorrhoids.
  • Reality: Bleeding from the anal canal can be caused by various diseases, such as anal cracks, polyps and rectal cancer. Therefore, when bleeding occurs, consult a doctor for diagnosis.

XV. The future treatment of hemorrhoids

In the future, we can expect the development of new, more effective and less invasive methods of treating hemorrhoids. The development of genetic therapy and targeted therapy can allow you to influence the causes of hemorrhoids and prevent its progression. You can also expect the appearance of new drugs that will more effectively relieve hemorrhoids symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients.

XVI. Practical tips for women with hemorrhoids

• Wear free underwear made of natural fabrics.
• Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet.
• Do not pursue during defecation.
• Use soft toilet paper or wet wipes.
• Make warm sitting baths.
• Use local drugs as prescribed by a doctor.
• Lead a healthy lifestyle.

XVII. Hemorrhoids and intimate life: how to preserve intimacy

Hemorrhoids can affect the intimate life of a woman, causing pain, discomfort and decrease in libido. However, with the help of the correct approach, you can maintain intimacy and satisfaction in intimate relationships. It is important to frankly talk with a partner about your feelings and needs. You can experiment with various postures to find the most comfortable. You can also use local drugs to relieve pain and discomfort.

XVIII. Hemorrhoids and sports: how to combine physical activity and health

Physical activity is important for health, but with hemorrhoids it is necessary to choose sports that do not exert excessive pressure on the pelvic organs. Swimming, walking, yoga and Pilates are recommended. Heavy weights, running and other sports associated with straining should be avoided.

XIX. The role of a nurse in the treatment of hemorrhoids

The nurse plays an important role in the treatment of hemorrhoids. It helps the doctor in conducting diagnostics, teaches the patient the rules of diet and hygiene, controls the use of drugs and cares for the wound after surgery. The nurse also provides psychological support to the patient and helps her cope with a sense of anxiety and fear.

XX. Legal aspects of hemorrhoid treatment

Hemorrhoid treatment should be carried out in accordance with applicable law and medical standards. The patient has the right to receive complete and reliable information about her disease, treatment methods and possible risks. She also has the right to choose a doctor and a medical institution. In case of violation of the rights of the patient, she can go to court.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of hemorrhoids in women, covering various aspects from anatomy and causes to treatment options and preventive measures. The detailed information presented is designed to educate and empower women to take control of their health and seek appropriate medical care. The absence of a concluding summary allows the reader to independently process and integrate the vast amount of information provided.