I have always been in pretty good health, so I was surprised one day when my doctor told me my blood pressure was a bit high. She told me to begin watching my salt intake, start exercising, and to try to relax. Well, I intended to follow her advice when I left her office, but the next day I was back to my same habits. I kept using the salt shaker and didn't begin an exercise routine like I had planned. When I went for my next check-up, she told me that my blood pressure was even higher and approaching a dangerous level. I had to begin a blood pressure medication to manage it. I wanted to create a blog to share my story and remind people to listen to their doctors' advice. If a few lifestyle changes can improve your health, then you should make them.
You may notice minor rectal bleeding coming from your anus. When this occurs, you may see the blood in your stool, on toilet paper or on the toilet lid. If the blood is tarry, black or if you are bleeding a significant amount, you should contact your doctor. However, for smaller amounts of blood are most often caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
Anal Fissures
Anal fissures are the most simple cause of rectal bleeding. This is usually the result of constipation and the passing of hard stools. If you find that you often suffer from bleeding as a result of an anal fissure, you may need a stool softener and more fiber. Taking a warm bath will also help treat the anal fissure problem.
More Advanced Treatments for Anal Fisssures
You may also need a cream that will treat the inflamed area. In extreme cases, where you're unable to stop bleeding resulting from an anal fissure, you may need to turn to a gastroenterologist for help. In some cases, you might need surgery.
Hemorrhoids
Bleeding caused by hemorrhoids is associated with bowel movements. The bleeding is often the result of sitting or standing for long periods of time, pregnancy, heavy lifting and obesity. This condition is known to become more common as you get older.
Treatment for Hemorrhoids
Fortunately, there are many ways that you can bring rectal bleeding under control. For one, warm baths tend to help treat rectal bleeding. Also, there are various creams you can use that contain hydrocortisone. However, when you have a very large hemorrhoid, you may need to turn to a gastroenterologist to have it removed.
More Advanced Treatments
One of the most common ways that larger hemorrhoids are removed by gastroenterologists is through rubber band ligation. A band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off circulation. The hemorrhoid shrinks and both the hemorrhoid and rubber band are passed through a bowel movement. You'll also be prescribed pain medication and stool softeners so that you can recover more easily from the procedure.
The use of lasers and the direct injection of medicines into the hemorrhoid can also be effective at treating it. However, if none of these procedures are successful, it may become necessary to perform a surgery. These are used as a last resort because surgeries are the most invasive option. Regardless, as long as you work with a gastroenterologist, you'll be able to get the bleeding under control. Contact a clinic, like Diablo Digestive Care, to learn more.
Share31 July 2019