10 Early Symptoms of Hemorrhoids or Piles
According to statistics, almost one-third of the adult population suffers from piles during their lifetime. However, the majority of people do not recognize the very first symptoms until the condition becomes painful or persists for a long time. Here are the signs of piles at their early stages, you should check to get timely treatment.
1. Itching Around the Anus Area
Persistent itching of the anus is the most co-morbid signs of piles. It happens when veins become swollen which irritates the area or when a leak of mucus from the rectum leads to the building up of moisture. Gradually, the skin gets irritated, making it impossible to resist the urge to scratch.
2. Discomfort or Pain While Sitting
Any struggle to sit comfortably for a long time can be a sign that you have piles. The swollen veins in the anus area press against the surface, thus, causing pain or a feeling of heaviness when sitting. People confuse these pains with mere tiredness of the body, however, it may be an indication of the presence of hemorrhoids at the initial stage.
3. Small Lumps or Swelling Near the Anus
Detecting a small lump or swelling around the anal area is one of the signs commonly recognized by people who have external piles. These lumps are mostly soft and may become more apparent after straining during a bowel movement. There can also be situations where they are sensitive or ache if you touch them. Not taking this symptom seriously can result in the enlargement of the area or the development of complications like a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
4. Bleeding During or After Bowel Movements
Finding a small amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper is the most common indication that an individual has piles. The bleeding happens as a result of rubbing or putting pressure on the veins that are inflamed by the stools. In case the bleeding is even slight and without pain, it is not to be neglected. Diagnosis at an early stage aids in differentiating from other causes like fissures or colorectal diseases and also makes sure that the suitable treatment is given on time.
5. Pain While Passing Stools
If you are hurting or feeling a burning sensation during bowel movement, these signs most probably are the beginning of piles. After the fecal matter passes through the inflamed veins, it may bring a sudden sharp pain or a burning sensation. There are some cases where people report the pain to be lasting even after the bowel movement.
6. Mucus Discharge
Sometimes, a viscous or clear discharge from the rectum is indicative of hemorrhoids. The inflamed parts may produce more mucus that can cause the area to become very sensitive and also may stain clothes. People usually go without noticing this sign that is, however, very convincing in pointing to anal passage inflammation. Persistent discharge of mucus can also induce itching and thus, bacterial infections.
7. Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation
People who suffer from hemorrhoids often feel that their bowel movement is not complete even after using the toilet. The reason for this is that the enlarged veins block the usual flow of feces, thus leaving a continuous feeling of pressure or fullness. Eventually, this feeling of incomplete evacuation will cause the patient to increase the frequency of straining and thus deteriorate the condition.
8. Redness and Swelling Around the Anal Region
Hemorrhoids might recede the skin of your anus that looks red, swollen, or even tender. The inflamed areas resulting from the ruptured blood vessels are the ones that cause both redness and tenderness. The redness is frequently accompanied by a slight increase in temperature of the region and burning sensation. The application of cold compresses can give relief for a short period but it is required to see a doctor for permanent relief.
9. Burning Sensation After Passing Stool
Feeling a burn after going to the toilet is also one of the first symptoms of hemorrhoids. The feeling occurs when the inflamed part of the anus is irritated during passing of stool. Some individuals might say that the burning sensation keeps them company for a few minutes after using the toilet. Drinking a good amount of water, consuming fiber-rich foods and keeping off spicy foods may alleviate the condition, however, the surest way is a visit to the doctor.
10. Protrusion or Bulging from the Anus
The abnormally distended veins may protrude outside the anus, especially during defecation. At first, these lumps may retract by themselves, but in the final stages, you might have to push them back gently with your hand or get an operation. Definitely, a symptom like this should not be ignored as it may lead to continuous pain or infection.