Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are one of the most common diseases these days, but now the question appears How long do hemorrhoids last if untreated?
Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins that occur around the anus or rectum and may last for various times, depending on the severity of the problem. Some people’s hemorrhoids may go away on their own after a few days of therapy. They are referred to as “recurrences” when they occur often.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last If Untreated?
Hemorrhoids may be present for an indeterminate amount of time. Small hemorrhoids may go away on their own within a few days without treatment.
Large, external hemorrhoids may take longer to heal, cause significant pain, and suffer throughout the healing process. If your hemorrhoids do not go away within a few days, you should consult a doctor for additional assessment.
Risk factors for severe or recurrent hemorrhoids include:
- Inadequate fiber consumption
- Having a BMI of 30 or above
- Being pregnant, having chronic constipation, having chronic diarrhea, aging muscles, spending too much time in the bathroom, straining while having a bowel movement, having anal intercourse, overusing or abusing enemas or laxatives, overusing or using laxatives
Some of the factors mentioned above may also make it more difficult for hemorrhoids to cure, resulting in the disease lasting for an extended time.
Treatment
Depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids, they may not need treatment and will go away on their own in a few days. While recovering from an injury, a person should rest and avoid activities that strain or push on the affected area.
Some people may benefit from over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Medicated creams, such as phenylephrine gel, may be used to relieve irritation and discomfort (Preparation H). If over-the-counter medicines are inadequate, a doctor may prescribe more potent ointments to treat the disease.
People who regularly suffer from hemorrhoids or have difficulties such as blood in the stool should see a doctor. The doctor may suggest other therapy or testing to rule out underlying concerns. Severe hemorrhoids may need complete treatment, including medical interventions. These procedures may include the following steps:
Rubber band ligation is the most common and least costly non-surgical procedure for hemorrhoid eradication. A doctor will put a thin, tight bandage on hemorrhoid to prevent blood flow to the tissue and allow it to fall off on its own over time.
Sclerotherapy is a process in which a doctor injects a chemical drug into a hemorrhoid to reduce bleeding and the effects of heat, light, and cold. According to doctors, surgical excision is only indicated when hemorrhoids do not respond to at-home or in-office treatment approaches. The procedure is beneficial and prevents the hemorrhoids from reoccurring most of the time.
Recovery
Some dietary and lifestyle changes may be suitable for those who suffer from hemorrhoids regularly, both for healing and prevention.
Diet
Straining during bowel movements is a crucial cause of hemorrhoids, although patients may reduce their need to strain during bowel movements by making dietary adjustments.
Including a variety of fiber-rich foods in one’s diet is generally seen to be beneficial. Plant fibers included in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains help collect water in the stool, softening it and making it easier to move through the digestive system.
Soluble fiber, such as methylcellulose (Citrucel) or psyllium (Metamucil), may ease constipation symptoms. Drinking enough water throughout the day ensures that the body has enough water for efficient digestion, which may also help to alleviate constipation symptoms.
