The sore bottom is a really unpleasant problem, which is better to solve sooner rather than later. The question here is what causes the discomfort? The most common reasons are anal fissures and hemorrhoids. For more information about the difference between those and how to treat them, read below.
Anal fissures
Hard stools and diarrhea, can cause a tear in the lining of the anus. These tears are called anal fissures. Having inflammatory bowel disease, being elderly or being overweight are other risk factors.
Anal fissures are really painful, especially when passing stool. The pain can last for hours afterward. They can itch a lot, too. You may notice blood in the toilet bowl.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid is a swollen blood vessel that is inflamed. It becomes large and uncomfortable.
Hemorrhoids are two types – internal and external. The external ones are outside of the anal opening. They are painful and usually appear as dark bumps. These can bleed, too.
Internal hemorrhoids are classified into for levels, based on the prolapse.
Hemorrhoids occur when too much pressure is put on the area. It usually happens when you do a lot of straining while passing stool.
If you have hemorrhoid, you may notice blood in the toilet (just like fissures). Also, your bottom may be itchy. You may be able to see or feel the lump with external hemorrhoid.
The difference between hemorrhoids and fissures
Both of these have similar symptoms – pain, itching, and bleeding. It is more likely the condition to be a fissure if you feel pain but there is no external lump. If there is slime leaking from your anus, the issue you have is probably hemorrhoid.
The best way to know what exactly is your problem is to visit a doctor. He or she will perform a rectal examination using anoscope. This way the doctor will be able to rule out other possibilities (including cancer, abscess, or infection).
Treatment
Whatever your problem is – hemorrhoid or a fissure – there are similar treatments and ointments you can find online. A good example is Pranicura – here you can view more. It will relieve the symptoms. Here are some of those plus some additional tips:
- Cortisone creams – for reducing swelling and itching
- Ointments – for reducing muscle spasms
- Use unscented toilet paper after a bowel movement
- Sitz baths are perfect for anal discomfort relief
- Stool softeners
- Botox injection
If these treatments are not enough, surgery may be needed.
Prevention
The best thing to do to prevent these kinds of health issues is to adjust your diet. Add more fiber to it – vegetables, fruits, grains, and nuts. If you can’t get enough fiber from food, take fiber supplements. Drink more water – at least 2 liters per day. Also, exercise regularly. All of this will help your constipation.
Another thing is to be careful when you use the bathroom. Avoid sitting on the toilet for too long and straining too much. Don’t forget to wipe gently.
If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to visit your doctor.