Anyone who has ever suffered with hemorrhoids likely will never forget the experience. Hemorrhoids are caused by bulging veins in the anus. Typical symptoms include pain, swelling, burning, and itching, especially while sitting. A sufferer may notice bright red blood on toilet tissue and feel one or more tender lumps under the skin in the anal area. Hemorrhoids may occur internally, just inside the anus, or externally, when they may actually protrude from the anus.
Cause of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids most commonly result from
- straining during bowel movements, which is most often caused by constipation
- ordinary weakening of the tissue in the anal area that occurs with age
Pregnant women often suffer from hemorrhoids due to constipation as well as increased pressure from the weight of the growing baby.
Usually the symptoms of hemorrhoids clear up on their own within a few days. And some people with hemorrhoids never detect any symptoms at all.
Women and men are equally prone to hemorrhoids. In fact, approximately 50% of all people have experienced hemorrhoids by the time they reach the age of 50, according to the National Institute of Health. While chronic sufferers generally know when their hemorrhoids are acting up, it is always a good idea to have a physician’s examination to rule out the presence of a more serious condition.
Complications from hemorrhoids
While unusual, in extreme cases the blood in the bulging veins can clot, causing the tissues surrounding the hemorrhoid to die. Surgery may be required to remove the clots. Also, in rare cases, prolonged bleeding may occur from some hemorrhoids. In all cases where hemorrhoid symptoms last a long time or are particularly troubling, see a doctor.
|
Hemorrhoid Treatment
The best treatment for hemorrhoids is prevention, as described below. A high-fiber diet is the surest route to healthy digestion and prevention of constipation, which can cause hemorrhoids to develop. Most Americans fall far short of the recommended daily fiber intake, according to the American Dietetic Association.
Other means of easing hemorrhoid symptoms include
- drinking six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day
- getting plenty of exercise, particularly walking
- sitting in a tub of warm water for 10 minutes, many times each day if possible
- using over-the-counter creams to help relieve pain and itching
Tips to prevent hemorrhoids
The main thing you need to do is prevent constipation. Add fresh fruits and vegetables to your everyday eating habits – the fiber contained in these foods helps ensure healthy and regular bowel movements. Adding a fiber supplement such as Konsyl is also an excellent way to obtain adequate fiber intake, especially when a busy lifestyle makes it hard to prepare and eat fresh food and produce every day. |
