Home : Technology & Computing : Traditional Phones Vs VoIP Services – Which Is The Best

Traditional phones vs VoIP services – Which is the best

The Internet has changed various aspects of how a business is run, ever since the advent of this technology. Technology and the Internet have enabled advancing business operations with a new wave of convenience and efficiency. The communication system is one of the most important aspects that has witnessed a change, mainly in the number of options available.

Traditional phones vs VoIP services – Which is the best
For communication over calls, businesses can now choose between traditional phones and VoIP services, based on their needs and budget. Here’s a guide to understanding these systems, their differences, and a brief comparison that’ll help your business.

What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol and is the technology that lets one make calls over the Internet. The phone service can be delivered through high-speed Internet and ample bandwidth. The voice calls are transmitted by converting analog phone signals to digital ones to be able to convey it over the Internet. VoIP services let you make calls to other VoIP numbers and traditional phones depending on the features one has opted for with their service provider.

In a VoIP call, the voice signals are converted into data packets, which are then transmitted over the Internet to the VoIP provider. The service provider routes the call to the VoIP phone or traditional number using a cloud-based private branch exchange (PBX). Once the data is relayed to the destination, the same is converted back to voice signals for completing the communication process.

What is a landline?
Landlines are the traditional phone systems that have been used for decades by businesses to communicate. This system uses a solid core and twisted copper wire and needs to be plugged into a two or four-pin wall jack. The communication happens with the help of analog technology. This involves the exchange of signals through physical switch boxes. Traditional phone systems use physical wire connections to make communication happen. A connection from one phone to another happens through the switching of it at regional, national, and international levels, depending on the location of the person making and receiving the call.

Landlines convert voice signals to electrical signals which are transmitted via cable to the terminal. This electrical signal is then sent from a tandem office to a central office, which is further routed to the appropriate terminal. The terminal transmits the electrical signal to the phone number to which the call is being made and is converted back to voice signal.

Comparing traditional phones and VoIP services
Let us look at the various differences in the working and usage of these two systems. This comparison can help you make an informed decision for your business.

  • Features
    When the features offered by traditional and VoIP services are compared, the latter seems to shine with more features. Landline service providers offer a limited range of features that are basic and may not contribute to adding to productivity. The sole purpose of such systems is communications, and the features may revolve around just that.

When it comes to VoIP services, users can get a lot more in this communication system. Businesses can get virtual assistant services, call forwarding, call ID, voice to text transcriptions, three-digit dialing, automatic call-forwarding, superior conferencing abilities, and much more. VoIP systems also make more sense for businesses that are expanding to multiple locations and a growing number of people working remotely as these services are not limited to a single location and can be used with the cloud.

  • Technology
    Although there is a difference in technology in how both these systems work, it is important to note that both may not be upgraded with the same vigor. While the copper wire and exchange infrastructure are not yet dying, it may be useful to know that most traditional phone service providers may not be keen on updating the technology behind the legacy systems, owing to the growing popularity of digital systems. There has been a decline in the users of traditional phones over the years, which may lead to the legacy systems becoming out-dated sooner or later.

With VoIP services, one does not have to worry about this aspect. VoIP service providers are continually upgrading themselves to evolve as digital communication systems do. Telecom companies are investing heavily in VoIP systems and technologies.

  • Reliability
    When it comes to the reliability factor, landline services found an edge over the VoIP services initially. Landline users do not have to worry about their communications getting affected due to broadband connectivity or power issues. Power outages were not an issue with the legacy systems (unless the devices were cordless and needed electricity to run). VoIP services could go dead the moment there was a power outage and can be affected even if there is a drop in broadband speed or bandwidth. However, broadband companies and VoIP service providers have been continually advancing in their offerings to tackle these problems. For example, several service providers can forward VoIP calls to non-VoIP connections, if the Internet is down. However, if the VoIP system you are using or can afford to use does not have such features, you may be better off with a traditional phone system.
  • Costing
    There is a huge difference in the workings of traditional and VoIP services when it comes to the costs incurred. Overall, the difference in these costs is anywhere between 40% and 80%, with VoIP services being cheaper than traditional systems. For businesses using multiple lines, VoIP is a cheaper option. Even when it comes to the hardware and software requirements, VoIP services prove to be easier on the pocket. While VoIP requires a single set up that are mostly plug-n-play and does not require anything additional for multiple devices, a landline service may warrant you to install expensive hardware for the same. A PBX is required for offices with multiple landlines. This piece of equipment that is required on-premises may alone cost thousands of dollars. The difference in installation and maintenance costs for landline and VoIP services is also significant. Landline requires elaborate wiring work for setting up, and the maintenance of PBX is extensive. VoIP services also require a PBX, but the PBX for VoIP is cloud-based.
  • Versatility
    Another huge difference between the landline and VoIP services is in the versatility of the devices that can be used to access such facilities. The number or kind of devices that one can use for landlines is limited to one category of devices, whereas VoIP services do not have such limitations. With VoIP, calls can be taken or made from a variety of devices as it offers excellent soft-touch phone capabilities.
  • Scalability
    This is an important area that should not be ignored while comparing traditional and VoIP services. Adding or eliminating lines from legacy systems can be cumbersome as, in some cases, it may require additional set up whereas, in the case of opting for VoIP services, these processes can be done easily using the existing VoIP infrastructure.
  • Security
    If we are to compare how secure each of these services is then you may find landline services to be more secure. VoIP services run on the Internet and may not be all that secure as compared to traditional landline systems. If the service provider does not have adequate features like end-to-end encryption, then, businesses using such services are always at the risk of a security lapse.
  • Content of communication
    VoIP services also show versatility in the type of content that can be exchanged. With landlines, one can only make calls but with VoIP services, businesses can share other kinds of digital media using the connection.

How to get a VoIP connection?
If you are a business using landline systems, you may want to switch to VoIP services to enjoy better reliability and save costs. There are certain prerequisites for getting a VoIP system, irrespective of whether you are setting up a new office or making a switch from legacy systems.

  • Choose an Internet provider
    The first one is a reliable Internet service provider offering high-speed broadband connection. Choose an Internet service provider that offers upload and download speeds that match industry standards. 100 Kbps per device is an ideal speed. Calculate the speed you need keeping in mind the number of devices you would be using. Choose an Internet plan that works without any hiccups even when the broadband and VoIP services are used at maximum capacity.
  • SIP devices
    The second piece of equipment that is a prerequisite for making VoIP services run is a Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) enabled device. SIP-enabled phones can help your employees leverage all the benefits that VoIP has to offer. You may either choose to buy new devices or convert existing phones in the office to SIP-enabled devices with the help of an ATA adapter. Another option is to opt for a softphone that helps any smart device to morph itself into a phone to make and receive VoIP calls.

Tips for choosing the right VoIP provider
Here are some tips you can keep in mind while choosing a VoIP provider:

  • If VoIP is going to be the main communication system used by your business, you’ll have to ensure that your VoIP provider has an excellent customer service team. You may need help during the initial set up processes and sudden breakdowns in the future. Reliable customer service can help you ensure seamless communication in such scenarios.
  • Find out whether the VoIP service provider you are choosing offers all the required security features. Some specific features you may want to look for include end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure data access capabilities.
  • When browsing through various VoIP services, look for providers that will let you customize a plan. Obtain a quote for a package exclusive for your specific needs rather than comparing prices for plans that are already predefined. This is ideal if the budget is not a constraint. If you are not sure if a particular plan is worth the price, request for a free trial period to ascertain the same. Most VoIP service providers should be able to provide you with this feature.
  • Understand all the terms of the plan before signing on any documents. Make sure you thoroughly understand the difference in pricing for fixed-term and flexible rolling contracts. If you plan to upgrade with the same service providers or add additional services later, make sure you know how these changes can impact your service contract terms.
  • It is also useful to find out if the service provider you intend to work with offers any training for employees of your business. This may be an important factor for businesses that have employees who are not tech-savvy or have been using legacy systems for a long time.

Switching to VoIP from legacy systems is like shifting to newer technologies in other aspects of professional lives, like transitioning from a typewriter to a computer or a laptop. With legacy systems holding a chance of becoming obsolete, it is always good to switch to VoIP services sooner, also allowing employees to work with a rapidly evolving communication technology. If you are worried about the transition owing to the absence of a dedicated IT team in your firm, you can always choose to hire independent consultants to help you in the process of migrating from legacy systems to VoIP. With broadband being an integral utility provided by offices, switching to VoIP would not be an elaborate set up for most businesses.

Disclaimer:
The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.

Must Read

View All
An Overview Of Colon Polyps
Health & Wellness

An Overview Of Colon Polyps

An overview of colon polyps Colon polyps are small clumps of cells formed on the lining of the colon. The majority of these polyps tend to be harmless, but with time, there are certain polyps that can easily grow into colon cancer. This is a serious condition, especially when found in the later stages. Almost any individual can develop colon polyps. People who are over 50 years of age are at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Even smokers and overweight individuals or people with a family or personal history of colon polyps might be at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Colon polyps – causes are slightly known, but this condition rarely causes any symptoms. Therefore, for individuals who are at risk of developing the condition, it is important to have screening tests on a regular basis. These will include a colonoscopy. Polyps found in the early stages can conveniently be removed. They can be removed completely in a very safe manner. Regular screening is the best step for the prevention of colon polyps. What are the colon polyps – causes? Doctors do not exactly know the causes of colon polyps, but they are of the view that polyps are a result of abnormal tissue growth. The human body develops healthy cells in a periodic manner, thus replacing the old cells that tend to be damaged or are no longer required. The division and growth of these new cells is regulated. However, there are cases when the new cells develop and then divide before they are actually needed. It is this excessive growth that results in polyps. Packaged red meat is also one of the most common colon polyps – causes. Fiber deficiency in the body. High-fat diet taken in excessive amounts. Smoking cigarettes. Obesity is also one of the major colon polyps – causes. Inherited conditions such as Gardener syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome might also put an individual at an increased risk of having colon polyps. What signs and symptoms do colon polyps show? Majority of the individuals suffering from colon polyps do not show any symptoms. They are actually unaware of the fact that they have polyps, because they feel very well. Bleeding from the rectum is one of the most common symptoms of colon polyps. Blood in the stool can also be a sign of colon polyps. Blood might make stool look black, or there can be red streaks in stool. A feeling of tiredness due to anemia and not having sufficient iron in the body are common symptoms. It is the bleeding from the polyps that can result in an iron deficiency and anemia. Several other health issues might also result in these signs. Nevertheless, if rectum bleeding or blood in the stool are everyday phenomena, a consultation with a doctor is vital. How can colon polyps be prevented? Knowing the colon polyps – causes can help prevent the condition. However, there are other important steps that can be followed in trying to prevent this condition. They are as listed: Regular screenings. Lifestyle changes can also be of help in doing away with the colon polyps – causes, and, consequently, prevent them. Adopting healthy habits such as eating fruits, whole grains, and vegetables and reducing fat intake can help in the prevention of colon polyps. Limiting the intake of alcohol and quitting tobacco. Staying active physically and maintaining a healthy body weight is also important. When should one see a doctor? A general physician must be consulted in case of the following: Blood in the stool Abdominal pain Changes in bowel habits for more than a week It is important for one to have a word with their physician regarding their intake of vitamin D and calcium. This is because studies have proved that increasing the intake of food items rich in vitamin D and calcium can help prevent the recurrence of polyps. However, this is not completely clear. It is important to consider all the options, especially if one is at a very high risk of suffering from colon polyps.
The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention
Health & Wellness

The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention

The types of colon polyps and their prevention Growths that occur on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and usually protrude into the colon are known as colon polyps. They form when the genetic material within the cells that line the colon changes and becomes abnormal. Under normal circumstances, the immature cells that line the colon multiply, mature, and then die in a timely fashion. On the other hand, the genetic changes in the lining cells prevent the cells from maturing, and they don’t die. Resultantly, immature and genetically abnormal cells start accumulating in the colon, eventually resulting in the formation of polyps. This article intends to raise awareness about colon polyps, its types, symptoms, diagnosis, the colon polyps – causes, and more. What are the types of colon polyps? Inflammatory colon polyps : Also known as false polyps, it is mostly found in people who have inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These polyps are inflammatory manifestations of IBD, are benign, and are unlikely to become cancerous. Adenomatous colon polyps : Also known as adenomas, this type of colon polyps make up about 70% of all polyps found in the colon. They can become cancerous, but the process takes years. Hyperplastic colon polyps : The term hyperplasia means fast growth, which indicates an abnormal increase in the number of cells resulting in the gross enlargement of the colon polyp. Despite the rapid growth, hyperplastic polyps have a low risk of turning cancerous. Villous adenoma : This type of colon polyp has a greater potential of becoming cancerous. It is estimated that approximately 30 percent of villous adenomas develop into a malignancy. These polyps require surgery for the removal of their cauliflower-like protrusions. What are the causes of colon polyps? Experts are not sure about the colon polyps – causes. However, the causes are believed to be a mix of environmental and genetic factors that result in an abnormal tissue growth. What are the known risk factors of colon polyps? Age : The risk of developing colon polyps tends to increase with age. Family history : A close relative with colon cancer or polyps raises the risk. Sex : Men have a slightly higher chance of developing polyps. Race : Black men and women have a higher risk. Alcohol : Alcohol consumption is closely linked to colon cancer risk and is known as one of the colon polyps – causes. Red meat : If not had in moderation, red meat can serve as one of the colon polyps – causes. Having too much red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer as well. Lack of dietary fiber : A good intake of fiber has many benefits, including colon benefits. It decreases the risk of colon cancer. Smoking : Smoking increases the risk of all types of cancers, and colon polyps or cancer is no exception. Obesity : Obese people are at higher risk of developing colon polyps and cancer. How are colonic polyps diagnosed? The following tests help diagnose colon polyps: Colonoscopy Sigmoidoscopy Barium enema CT colonography Stool test What are the symptoms of colon polyps? Change in stool color Rectal bleeding Iron deficiency Anemia Change in bowel habits Abdominal pain Blood in the stool Fatigue How common are colon polyps? They are very common. They increase in prevalence as people age. If one has colon polyps, they are more likely to develop polyps elsewhere in the colon later. Only a small proportion of polyps cause symptoms or signs, which usually are the result of bleeding from the polyp. How can colon polyps be prevented? Adopt healthy habits : Adopt healthy habits and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit fat intake, alcohol consumption, and quit tobacco. Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid all the estimated colon polyps – causes. Seek advice if at high risk : If there’s a family history of colon polyps or its other risk factors affect one, seeking prompt medical advice and counseling is important. With regular colonoscopies, one can prevent the colon polyps – causes from developing, and hence preventing the colon from developing.
Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy
Health & Wellness

Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy

Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors – Prognosis and life expectancy The neuroendocrine system is a complex regulatory mechanism comprised of cells spread throughout several organ systems, including our lungs and digestive system. As they have characteristics of both nerves and endocrine cells, they are called neuroendocrine cells. The nerve cells transmit signals using electrical impulses, whereas endocrine cells make thyroid and insulin-secreting glands. This article intends to discuss the carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor that starts in these cells in detail. What is a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? A carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor starts in the cells of the hormone-producing organs in our body. A carcinoid tumor is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that most commonly arises in the gastrointestinal system, which includes intestines, stomach, and esophagus. Carcinoid tumors account for about 1% to 2% of lung cancers. As carcinoid tumors originate from tissue that produces hormones, the main side effect of the condition is the inappropriate release of various hormones in the bloodstream. Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor can arise in a number of locations categorized into three areas: the foregut, midgut, and hindgut. Lungs and stomach form the foregut area. The midgut comprises of the small intestine, colon, and appendix. The hindgut includes the end of the large bowel, the rectum, and genitourinary tract organs (ovaries and testes). What factors raise a person’s risk of developing a carcinoid tumor? A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 : This hereditary condition increases an individual’s risk of developing tumors in the pituitary gland, pancreas, and parathyroid gland. Age : Age seems to be a major factor that plays an integral role, as children rarely develop carcinoid tumors; the average diagnosis age is 55 to 65 years for this condition. Race and gender : Carcinoid tumors are more common among black people than white people, and black men have a higher risk than black women. White men and women have the same risk levels, and after treatment, women tend to live longer. Other medical conditions : Some medical conditions that damage the stomach and reduce acid production increase the risk of developing a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor. What are the symptoms of a carcinoid tumor? Signs and symptoms of a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor depend on where the tumor develops: Carcinoid tumors in the lungs : The symptoms of a tumor in the lungs are chest pain, wheezing, diarrhea, shortness of breath, skin flushing (redness and a feeling of warmth on the face and neck), weight gain, particularly around the midsection and back, and pink or purple marks on the skin, which look like stretch marks. Carcinoid tumors in the digestive tract : The symptoms, in this case, are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, intestinal blockage, causing an inability to pass stool, rectal bleeding and pain, and skin flushing. What are some effective management tips for the symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Facial flushing : Avoid stress and ask your doctor about specific foods that cause facial flushing so that you can avoid them. Diarrhea : Ask your doctor for anti-diarrheal medication. Wheezing : Ask for medication that relaxes muscles in the lungs to make breathing easier. Heart problems : Discuss your heart issues with your doctor so that they can prescribe diuretics, which lower the blood pressure. Carcinoid syndrome : Use octreotide on prescription, which is the most effective medication to treat carcinoid syndrome. What is the prognosis for carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign carcinoid tumors are small and can be removed completely. They don’t come back and don’t spread to other parts of the body. They don’t produce any symptoms as well. Malignant carcinoid tumors are large, and their cells can invade and damage the surrounding tissues and organs. Additionally, malignant cells can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and can even form new tumors in other parts of the body. Lymph nodes, lungs, bone liver, and skin are the common sites for carcinoid metastases. Carcinoid tumors grow slowly in comparison to other cancers, such as lung, colon, pancreas, or liver cancer. Patients with larger malignant carcinoid tumors (with or without metastasis) can survive and have a good quality of life after proper treatment. Adenocarcinoids, a rare form of carcinoid tumors, are more aggressive than the typical malignant carcinoid tumors.
What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage
Health & Wellness

What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage

Liver damage – What are the first signs? On the right side of the abdomen, below your rib cage, is an organ called the liver. It is the size of a football and is one of the most important organs in the human body. The liver aids in the digestion of the food we eat and also helps in flushing out the toxins from our body. When there is any kind of disturbance in the normal liver functioning, then it can cause a significant damage to the human body. Once you start exhibiting the signs of liver damage, it is important to get the exact diagnosis and take the next steps accordingly. What are the causes of liver damage? There can be a number of causes for liver damage: Liver infection is one of the most common causes of liver damage. Viruses and parasites can cause infections that affect the normal functioning of the liver. Hepatitis is the most common liver infection, which includes Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Some diseases will affect your immune system thereby damaging your liver too. This is called autoimmune hepatitis. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis are of the same kind. If you have inherited an abnormal gene from any of your parents or family members, it can lead to a build up of various substances in the body and hence can damage the liver. Build up of liver cancer can be a cause. A person who is an alcohol addict is more prone to liver damage. What are the first signs of liver damage? There can be several signs of a liver damage. Here are 10 signs of liver damage that you need to pay attention to: Your eyes and skin turning yellow, which is usually a sign of jaundice. Abdominal swelling and pain are also symptoms of liver damage that you should watch out. Your ankles and legs begin to swell.. Your urine becomes dark yellow in color. There can be many reasons for dark yellow urine, but it can also be a sign of liver damage. Excessively itchy skin is also a symptom of liver damage. Loss of appetite. Getting bruises easily as your liver fails to create proteins needed for blood clotting. Vomiting and nausea for no reason. Blood in the stool or pale stool. Chronic fatigue. How is liver damage diagnosed? In order to get started with the liver damage treatment, it is very important to diagnose the symptoms of liver damage correctly. In order to start the diagnoses, your doctor will start with a physical examination, followed by requesting details of your health history. Liver function tests, which are blood tests will be done at the initial stage. MRI Scan and CT scan kind of image tests are done. Tissue analysis is also done to get an accurate idea of the problem . How is liver damage treated? The treatment for the liver damage depends on the type and severity of damage. Some stages can be treated with just slight modifications to the diet and lifestyle like weight reduction, no smoking or alcohol. Further stages will require medication and severe condition will need a surgery. If your liver has failed completely, then you will have to go for a liver transplant, which is an expensive and time consuming process. How can liver damage be prevented? Certain changes in your lifestyle can prevent liver damage. You need to stop drinking alcohol or only drink a moderate amount to decrease pressure on your liver. Get vaccinated to prevent getting hepatitis infections. When you are spraying insecticides or other aerosol sprays, make sure that you cover your nose and also make sure to protect your skin. You need to maintain a healthy weight as there are chances of fatty liver damage as well. You should take only medicine that is prescribed to you and make sure that you do not take any medicine in excess or without talking to your doctor.
What Are The Causes And Symptoms Of External Hemorroids
Health & Wellness

What Are The Causes And Symptoms Of External Hemorroids

What are the causes and symptoms of external Hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids, popularly known as ‘Piles,’ are enlarged or swollen blood vessels near the lower part of the rectum or anus. The inflamed veins are caused due to excessive pressure on the veins or extra strain during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are very common in men as well as women in their middle age. There are no major hemorrhoids – symptoms however these can be very painful and may cause severe itching and bleeding. What are the types of Hemorrhoids? There are various types of hemorrhoids that are classified based on the way they are caused: Internal hemorrhoids – In this type of condition, the swelling of the blood vessels is inside the rectum area. It may not cause discomfort however it may get painful during bowel movements and may cause bleeding. It may also at time protrude outside the anal opening and cause irritation. External hemorrhoids: In this condition, the swelling is around the skin of the anal area or the lower rectum area. It usually causes painful bowel movements and irritation due to itching. Thrombosed hemorrhoids: In this type of a situation there is generally a blood clot formation inside the hemorrhoid which is very distressing. What are the symptoms of external hemorrhoids? The external hemorrhoids – symptoms are: The bowel movements may not be very painful but contain blood every time you pass stool. It may even stain the tissue paper or undergarments. Severe and uncontrollable itching around the anal area. Intolerable pain in the rectum area during and after bowel movements. Discomfort while sitting or walking, along with pain and itching. Swelling of blood vessels in or around the anal fissure which may even protrude sometimes outside the anal opening. Lump in and around the anal area which is often sensitive, tender and painful may be a symptom of a thrombosed hemorrhoid. How is it caused? Every single person has hemorrhoids, it is only when they have swelling or inflammation it becomes troublesome and painful. The exact and precise cause for hemorrhoids is still not known. The increase in the pressure around the lower part of the rectum can cause swelling and inflammation in the blood vessels which may cause hemorrhoids and its symptoms. There are many other causes that lead to recurrent hemorrhoids which are: Strain or injury during bowel movements: This may happen due to constipation or pressure to pass the bowels. Diarrhea: It is also one of the causes of hemorrhoids. Chronic Constipation: The pressure put by the patient during constipation may lead to the swelling of the blood vessels. Injury to the spinal cord can also strain the veins leading to hemorrhoid formation. Pregnancy: Can lead to hemorrhoids as it tends to put pressure on the veins in the lower rectum area due to the enlarged uterus thereby causing swelling or inflammation. Sitting for prolonged periods in a place, plane, car or bus journey may put pressure on the lower rectum or anal area which may cause the blood vessels to get enlarged or swell thus leading to hemorrhoids. Irregular bowel movements: Can cause hemorrhoids due to strain or pressure during the bowel movements. Obesity can cause hemorrhoids Low fiber diet: Fiber in diet enables the smooth functioning of the digestive tract however low fiber may affect the smooth functioning of the digestive system which may lead to piles and enlarged veins in the rectum area. Inappropriate posture: Due to various reasons can lead to hemorrhoids as it may put pressure on the lower area of the rectum and anal opening. Family history: Many a times hemorrhoids are caused due to genetics as the person may have inherited it from his/her family. What are the treatment options? In most of cases of hemorrhoids, you can opt for self-treatment or home remedies as these aid in the problem going away. However, in the severe cases, medical intervention such as surgical procedures or medicines may be required for the person to recover fully. A medical intervention is the best way to manage the symptoms of hemorrhoids and nip the condition in the bud as soon as possible.
Home Remedies To Relieve Pain And Discomfort Due To Hemorrhoids
Health & Wellness

Home Remedies To Relieve Pain And Discomfort Due To Hemorrhoids

Home remedies to relieve pain and discomfort due to hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids are also known as “piles” as they are swollen or inflamed veins in and around the anus region of the body that cause severe pain, along with distress and bleeding. The swelling is caused due to increased pressure around the area or due to an injury during a bowel movement. It is a very common condition that may occur in the middle ages for both men and women. However, there are numerous options available to treat it. Many people can get relief from hemorrhoids by following major lifestyle changes and precautions; in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. Who is at risk of hemorrhoids? People in their 50s are generally likely to get hemorrhoids; otherwise, people who can be at risk are as follows: Pregnant women Obese people Constipation Those sitting for long periods on the toilet seat Those who have low fiber intake in their regular diet Those with an injury caused by a bowel movement What are the symptoms? The various symptoms of hemorrhoids are these: Painless bleeding during bowel movements Severe itching around the anus Discomfort and unbearable pain while sitting Swelling or inflammation around the anal region How is hemorrhoids diagnosed? Hemorrhoids are generally diagnosed by looking at it visually. The other ways to test and detect hemorrhoids include those listed here: Digital rectal examination : In this test, the doctor will first check the anus canal and rectum visually and then decide to go for the digital rectal examination. The doctor will use their finger with gloves and insert it in the rectum to feel any abnormalities or growths for identification of hemorrhoids. Sigmoidoscopy : It is a test done by the doctor when the internal hemorrhoids are difficult to diagnose as they are often soft to be felt during the rectal exam. Sigmoidoscopy is done using a small camera around the anal canal area or the lower part of the rectum. Colonoscopy : This is done by the doctor to detect hemorrhoids in cases when the patient is detected with some other digestive disorders, when there is a risk of colorectal cancer, or when the patient has been through colonoscopy recently. In this test, the patient is given medicines before the test to feel drowsy and relaxed. The doctor inserts the camera with a tube into the lower end of the rectum right up to the other end to be able to see the internal parts in the camera for a specific examination. What are some prevention measures for hemorrhoids? There are various ways to avoid getting hemorrhoids, which include these: Sufficient amount of water intake Regular exercise Fiber included in the diet Active life Avoiding constipation Eating moderate food that is easy to digest What are the home remedies to treat hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoid cures and treatment can also be done using popular home remedies, which are as mentioned: Eating fiber-rich food : The regular diet should include fruits, vegetables, grains, and lots of liquids. This will help avoid acidity and will help in smooth digestion. This will also help avoid any injury to the blood vessels in the rectum area. Aloe vera : This is an incredible natural product that is beneficial to mankind in numerous ways, and it is also helpful in treating hemorrhoids. Application of aloe vera will help in reducing the irritation and itching in the rectum area. Sitz bath : This treatment is advised by the doctor to help the patient with hemorrhoids. It involves sitting in warm water for 15-20 minutes for 3-4 times a day to get relief from pain. Cleanliness : The physical practitioner will also give directives to keep the area clean and dry to avoid any further infections. Avoid perfumed or chemical-based products and keep the area dry as much as possible. Soothing wipes : Soft wet wipes can be used to clean and soothe the area from swelling. Stool softeners : In the form of liquids or tablets, these can be advised by the doctor to avoid constipation and help in easy and quick bowel movements, which will help in getting relief from pain. Cold compress : Ice packs or cold compresses to the rectum or anal area will help in relieving swelling and inflammation of the blood vessels. Witch hazel : This can be applied directly to the affected area to help reduce pain and itching.