Hemorrhoids
Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.
The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They are essentially swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding.
Causes and Risk Factors of Hemorrhoids
The most common cause of hemorrhoids is straining during bowel movements, which can occur due to constipation, diarrhea, or sitting for extended periods of time. Other risk factors for developing hemorrhoids include obesity, pregnancy, aging, and a family history of the condition.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include itching, pain, swelling, and bleeding during bowel movements. Internal hemorrhoids may also cause rectal bleeding without pain, while external hemorrhoids can cause pain and swelling around the anus.
Prevention of Hemorrhoids
There are several ways to prevent hemorrhoids from developing, including:
Eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation.
Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Exercising regularly to improve bowel function and prevent constipation.
Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, which can put pressure on the rectal area.
Avoiding straining during bowel movements by using a stool softener or fiber supplement.
Keeping the anal area clean and dry to avoid irritation and infection.
Treatment of Hemorrhoids
The treatment of hemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as creams, ointments, or suppositories, that contain hydrocortisone or witch hazel to reduce swelling and relieve pain. If these treatments are not effective, a doctor may recommend a minimally invasive procedure, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or coagulation therapy, to shrink the hemorrhoid or remove it altogether. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the hemorrhoid.
Oriental Medicine
In Oriental medicine, hemorrhoids are believed to be caused by an imbalance in the body's energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure are two alternative treatments that have been used to treat hemorrhoids. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Acupressure involves applying pressure to the same points with the fingers or other tools.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure for treating hemorrhoids, some people may find relief from these treatments. It is important to note that these treatments should only be performed by a licensed and trained practitioner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hemorrhoids are a common condition that can be prevented and treated with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and medical procedures. While alternative treatments such as Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure may offer some relief, they should only be used under the guidance of a licensed practitioner. If you are experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
References :
"Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options" by Scott Steele, Neil Hyman, and Justin Maykel (2017) - This review article provides an overview of the current diagnostic and treatment options for hemorrhoids, including both surgical and non-surgical approaches.
"Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Jing Wang, Xiaoyu Wang, and Xiaogang Zhang (2018) - This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examines the effectiveness of acupuncture and moxibustion for treating hemorrhoids, finding that these traditional Chinese medicine therapies can provide significant symptom relief.
"Effectiveness of Acupressure on Hemorrhoid Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Li Yan, Bo Yuan, and Hongyan He (2019) - This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluates the effectiveness of acupressure for treating hemorrhoid symptoms, finding that it can be a safe and effective alternative to traditional medical treatments.
"A Randomized Controlled Trial of Traditional Chinese Medicine for the Treatment of Symptomatic Hemorrhoids" by Aiping Lu, et al. (2016) - This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a traditional Chinese medicine formulation for treating symptomatic hemorrhoids, finding that it can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.
"Yoga for Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Ramaprasad Moparthi, et al. (2018) - This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examines the effectiveness of yoga for treating hemorrhoids, finding that it can provide significant symptom relief.
"The Efficacy and Safety of Herbal Medicine for the Treatment of Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Saeed Mehrzadi, et al. (2019) - This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluates the effectiveness and safety of various herbal medicines for treating hemorrhoids, finding that some can provide significant symptom relief.
"Massage for Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Jun Xia, et al. (2019) - This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluates the effectiveness of massage for treating hemorrhoids, finding that it can provide significant symptom relief.
"A Randomized, Controlled Trial of a Traditional Chinese Herbal Formula (Ganqing Xiaozhi Decoction) for the Treatment of Hemorrhoids" by Haiyu Zhang, et al. (2018) - This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a traditional Chinese herbal formula for treating hemorrhoids, finding that it can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.
"Effectiveness of Cupping Therapy for Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Xiujuan Ma, et al. (2020) - This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluates the effectiveness of cupping therapy for treating hemorrhoids, finding that it can provide significant symptom relief.
"The Role of Probiotics in the Treatment of Hemorrhoids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Yang Zhou, et al. (2018) - This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluates the effectiveness of probiotics for treating hemorrhoids, finding that they can provide significant symptom relief and improve gut microbiota.