Caused by increased pressure due to being overweight, pregnancy and irritable bowel movements, hemorrhoids becoming an ongoing complaint among many adults. According to a survey, by the time someone reaches the age of 50, hemorrhoids become an ongoing complaint. Some of the classical symptoms of hemorrhoids include bleeding, rectal pain and prolapse.
What are hemorrhoids?
Everyone has hemorrhoids or the pillow-like clusters of veins that lie beneath the mucous membranes that line the lowest part of the anus and rectum. The condition that we most fear i.e. hemorrhoids develop when the veins become swollen like varicose veins. The blood vessels that are involved should battle gravity for getting the blood back up to the heart.
What are the two types of hemorrhoids?
Following are the two types of hemorrhoids-
1. Internal hemorrhoids
These occur in the lower rectum. They are typically painless even after producing bleeding. For example- one might stumble across bright red blood on the toilet paper. These hemorrhoids could prolapse or can also extend beyond the anus. It can also cause potential problems. A hemorrhoid can collect small amounts of mucus or tiny particles that end up causing irritation. One should also refrain from trying to wipe as the itching can also worsen the problem.
2. External hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids are the most uncomfortable as they develop under the skin around the anus. In this case, the overlying skin becomes irritated which eventually erodes. If under any circumstance, a blood clot forms inside the external hemorrhoid, the wound can worsen and one might have to deal with excruciating pain. One might also feel a lump around the anus.
What causes hemorrhoids?
According to various surveys and testaments, hemorrhoids are associated with chronic constipation. They can occur during prolonged sitting on the toilet or difficult bowel movements. All this has to do with blood flow to and from the area. This causes it to pool and enlarge the vessels. Thus, hemorrhoids occur during pregnancy when enlarging uterus presses the veins. Studies have also shown that patients with hemorrhoids have a higher resting anal canal tone. This means that the smooth muscle of the anal canal tone is tighter than the average one. On the top of it, constipation adds to these troubles. When straining happens during a bowel movement, it increases pressure in the anal canal. This pushes the hemorrhoids against the sphincter muscle.
Diagnosing hemorrhoids
The ailment can be diagnosed from a prior medical history and physical exam. External hemorrhoids can be apparent when the blood clot has formed. The medical practitioner might also perform a rectal exam for checking the blood in the stool. After checking for potential possibilities with an anoscope, a tiny plastic tube is inserted in the rectum and if there is an evidence of bleeding or blood in the stool, colonoscopy may be performed.
Ayurvedic treatment for hemorrhoids
Some ailments cannot be treated with conventional methods. Ayurvedic medicine addresses the conditions of mind, body and spirit. It brings the body back into balance to alleviate the symptoms of illness. Following are the ayurvedic treatments for hemorrhoids-
1. Kshara sootram
This minimally invasive ayurvedic surgical technique is used for treating piles, fistula-in-ano and internal piles. The technique uses a medicated thread for cutting, curing and heal the tissue that is affected without extensive surgery.
Kshara sutra translates to Alkai Thread and the special herbal coated surgical thread is prepared by smearing and drying the herbal alkali compound on the linen thread.
How does the technique work?
· The Kshara sootram is tied around the base of the mass and the thread cuts off blood supply. This causes the mass to shrink and dry.
· It falls off naturally in 6-7 days.
· The drug kills bacteria and promotes healing of the tissue.
2. Kaidaryadi Kashaya
The herbal decoction is used with shodhana and shaman therapies like Basti, herbal laxatives and Kshara sutra. This ayurvedic medicine addresses various gastrointestinal issues. It is made from a potent blend of herbs such as Patola, Nagara, Haritaki and Kaidarya. The drug helps alleviate various types of common disorders like indigestion, diarrhea, gastric ulcers and constipation.
It is trusted for its effectiveness, it supports one’s overall digestive well-being. It is also a natural remedy for digestive discomforts.
Following are the key ingredients in the drug-
· Nagara- Also known as Zingiber Officinale, it helps stimulate digestion and relieve nausea.
· Kaidarya- It is known for its therapeutic properties and treats several kinds of digestive issues.
· Haritaki- This potent herb aids in detoxification and also promotes bowel regularity.
· Patola- It regulates the digestive system and also cures constipation.
| Treatment | Method | Benefits | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kshara Sootra | Herbal thread ligation | Non-surgical, minimal pain | 5–7 days |
| Agni Karma | Thermal cauterization | Fast bleeding control | 3–5 days |
| Jatyadi Ghrita | External healing | Soothes & heals wounds | Ongoing use |
3. Agni karma
This ancient ayurvedic para-surgical procedure is used to treat various conditions by using therapeutic application of heat also known as thermal cauterization. The agni karma is a minimally invasive treatment. It is used for treating piles, small bleeding hemorrhoids and thrombosed piles.
Overview of the procedure-
· Preparation
Before starting with the procedure, the area is cleaned.
After that, the local anesthesia may be used.
The patient is then placed in a comfortable position.
· Application of heat
Panchaloha is heated until red hot.
Then, it is briefly applied to the base of the pile mass.
Then, the thermal cauterization seals the blood vessels and prevents further bleeding. It also destroys the pile tissue.
· Post-procedure care
The affected area is cooled and then dressed with essential ayurvedic oils. Many doctor also recommend sitz baths and oral medications.
Aftercare
· One should refrain from eating oily and spicy food after this ayurvedic treatment for hemorrhoids.
· One should make use of mild laxatives like Isabgol, triphala and Abhayarishta.
· The recovery time of the treatment is usually 3-7 days.
4. Jatyadi Ghritam
This classical ayurvedic ghee is known for its wound-healing and antimicrobial properties. The ghee is used for external application and sometimes internal. The drug is used for treating piles and fissures.
Following are the ingredients involved in making of the drug-
· Jati- It is antiseptic.
· Neem- This ingredient is antimicrobial.
· Haridra- It is a wound healer.
· Patol- It acts as a cooling agent.
FAQs on Hemorrhoids
Q1. Are hemorrhoids permanent?
No, with the right treatment—whether Ayurvedic or allopathic—most hemorrhoids can be managed or completely cured.
Q2. Can sitting too long cause hemorrhoids?
Yes, especially on the toilet. Prolonged sitting increases pressure on the rectal veins.
Q3. Are hemorrhoids dangerous?
They are usually not dangerous but can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. Severe untreated cases may lead to complications.
Q4. Which foods should I avoid during hemorrhoid treatment?
Avoid oily, spicy, and low-fiber foods. Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
Q5. Can Ayurvedic treatment fully cure piles?
In many mild to moderate cases, Ayurvedic treatments like Kshara Sootra and herbal formulations are very effective, especially when supported by proper diet and lifestyle changes.
| Source |
|---|
| Kshara Sutra - Ayurvedic Treatment for Piles |
| Ayurvedic Remedies for Hemorrhoids |
| Hemorrhoids Causes & Symptoms |
| Agni Karma: A Traditional Approach |
| Jatyadi Ghritam for Wound Healing |