Many proctologists have had encounters where patients automatically assume that they have hemorrhoids. This is usually after their bottom feels itchy with some lumps down there. Self-diagnosis is not a good thing when it comes to diseases and ailments. It is always essential you go for checkups and examinations to rule out the presence of something else. What may feel like hemorrhoids could be something else like an anal prolapse. The danger with self-diagnosing a disease is that people are susceptible to overthinking. For instance, they may think they have something wrong with them, while there is nothing of significant concern in the real sense. The people then automatically try to reach out for topical creams or medicated wipes to clean up themselves. When this happens, then a person is doing more than good simply because of self-diagnosis. If you suspect you have hemorrhoids, visit a specialist in proctology in Astoria for evaluation and examination.
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Avoid Over Cleaning
You may not realize it, but over-cleaning with creams and wipes can result in even more itchiness. Too much cleaning causes trauma and micro-tears. And the more you clean, the more the skin gets dry, making it work harder to produce more oil. To help reduce skin irritation, you need to avoid soap as much as possible since it is considered an irritant. The best thing is to use plain water instead. Even if you are feeling something down there, there is no need to panic. See a specialist first before you self-diagnose and self-medicate yourself. Otherwise, it could just be a normal, harmless skin flap.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
A person with hemorrhoids will show symptoms such as bright, red blood within the stool. The blood may be seen in the toilet bowl or even toilet paper used to wipe their bottom. A patient may also have pain and irritation around the anus. It is also common for one to experience swelling and a hard lump around the anus. Itching is also a symptom. Each patient’s symptoms may vary, but these are the common ones.
Many people have hemorrhoids at some point in life. You are at risk of hemorrhoids if you sit on the toilet for an extended period, are pregnant, or are obese. If you do things that cause you to strain more, like heavy lifting, you may develop hemorrhoids. People with a family history of hemorrhoids are also likely to have them. Also, chronic constipation or diarrhea are risk factors. The condition affects people mostly between 45 and 65 years.
Why See a Proctologist
Hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels or veins in and around a person’s anus or lower part of the rectum are swollen and irritated. If there is extra pressure being put on these veins, they can swell and irritate. Hemorrhoids occur inside or around the anus, hence being referred to as internal or external. It may feel convenient to get online, research the symptoms you have, and then purchase an over-the-counter medication. While there is a lot of medical information you can find online, unfortunately, you cannot replace the advice and knowledge of a doctor.
Avoid jumping to conclusions whenever you feel something in or around the anus. A proctologist may recommend a minimally invasive treatment like sclerotherapy or rubber band ligation for severe cases of hemorrhoids.