What Are Hemorrhoids?
When the blood veins which are located in lower rectum, or within the anus become swollen and engorged and start itching and causing pain, the diagnoses is often hemorrhoids. This condition of swollen painful veins can be either internal, or external, causing the vein to protrude from the anus. On occasion, both types will occur at the same time for some unlucky sufferers.
Hemorrhoid tissue is caused by excessive pressure on the delicate anal and rectal veins and often this pressure is caused by straining during bowel movements due to constipation. Because it is such a common problem, hemorrhoids occur all too often in many people. Frequent diarrhea can be a culprit in the appearance of hemorrhoids as well as frequent constipation. Hence, diets, which are lacking in the fiber found in fruits, nuts, vegetables and whole grains, are likely to contribute to a problem with hemorrhoids. Other common denominators are an insufficient intake of fluid, and a lack of exercise. Jobs that keep people seated for extended amounts of time are also guilty of adding to the likelihood of hemorrhoids. The increased blood volume associated with pregnancy, and the strain put on the veins during the pushing stage of labor and delivery make hemorrhoids a recurrent problem in women of childbearing age. Overweight people who live sedentary lives are also appreciably at risk.
The symptoms of having hemorrhoids, either internal or external, usually include one or more of the following; itching in the anal area, pain in the anus particularly when seated, pain during bowel movements, the presence of fresh blood following a bowel movement, and uneven lumps in the vicinity of the anus. The presence of hemorrhoids can usually be diagnosed by a simple physical examination of the anal and rectal areas.
Being diagnosed with hemorrhoids is not the end of the world, as they seldom pose a serious health problem. However, on occasions that are thankfully rare, hemorrhoids can become severe and cause extreme pain or substantial bleeding. It must be noted that any bleeding from the rectum needs to be discussed with of a physician as there are more serious diseases, such as colon or rectal cancer, for which rectal bleeding is often a symptom.
The most common treatment for a case of hemorrhoids is often the use of medicated pads and over-the-counter creams, which temporarily reduce the symptoms. It should be noted that these ought to be considered for short-term use only. Sitz baths, witch hazel, or using suppositories to softener the stool can help to ease symptoms. The more persistent or severe cases might indicate that surgery is in order. Surgical intervention is invasive and usually considered only when other remedies have failed and the problem is significant enough to warrant the use of invasive procedure. This option usually entails removal of the involved portion of vein or stapling off a section to block the blood flow. Chemical injections are another option used to shrink swelling tissue, and there is also a procedure in which a rubber band with which the involved section of vein is tied off so that it will wither and shrink. Lasers utilize infrared light or heat to harden a hemorrhoid until it shrivels and dies.
While hemorrhoids are seldom a significant health concern, they can be painful and uncomfortable, so if possible, prevention is always preferable to treatment. However, if hemorrhoids are already part of your life, there are simple ways to treat them, and simple ways to reduce the risk of having them return.
As with any medical condition, be sure to see a doctor before you begin any hemroid treatment option. For more information about coping with hemroids, visit Hemroid Treatment
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