Hemorrhoids are a condition in which veins located within lower regions of the rectum, or around the anus become inflamed and swollen and cause itching and burning. Hemorrhoids take two forms, external or internal, although both occasionally occur at the same time for some unfortunate hemorrhoid 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.
There is no denying that having hemorrhoids is not fun, but fortunately, they seldom pose a serious problem to health. On rare occasions, they can become severe enough to cause extreme pain or considerable bleeding. Any rectal bleeding should be brought to the attention of one’s physician, as there are more serious diseases for which that can be a symptom. Treating the first stages of hemorrhoids usually involves an over-the-counter cream, or the use of medicated pads. These treatments are only used to temporarily reduce the symptoms and should not be considered for long-term use. Some helpful home remedies include sitz baths, wiping the irritated area with cotton soaked in witch hazel, or using stool softeners to ease any constipation. Stubborn cases that fail to respond to simple home remedies can indicate that surgery should be considered, though surgical intervention is usually a last resort. Hemorrhoidectomy, and stapling to block blood flow to the inflamed tissue are invasive procedures that are used only when other remedies have failed. A chemical injection may be considered to shrink swelling tissue, and rubber band ligation, or laser light/heat may be used in the treatment of hemorrhoids.
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.
Hemorrhoids may not be a major concern in your overall health, but they are both uncomfortable and undesirable. As with all things health related, prevention is always preferable to seeking a cure, but if one is already dealing with hemorrhoids, there is relief in sight. There are several simple ways to treat hemorrhoids, as well as many ways to reduce the risk of having them return once they are effectively treated.
For most people hemroids are an easily managed condition. Although it can be embarrasing to talk about, a doctor’s exam is always necessary to ensure that your symptoms aren’t being caused by something more serious. Hemroids are quite common and the sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner you can start a hemroid treatment option.
