Guide to Understanding Hemorrhoids Treatment, Causes and Symptoms
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur when the blood vessels near the lower rectum or the anus are stretched and get irritated easily when pressured. Several factors contribute to the development of hemorrhoids:
- Chronic Constipation: If one pushes during the bowel movements then the pressure exerted on the veins within the rectum and anus causes hemorrhoids.
- Diarrhea: That is, often defecation can also lead to pathological irritation and inflammation of the anal veins.
- Pregnancy: The expanding uterus also puts pressure on the veins in the rectum thus culminating into development of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
- Obesity: Obesity puts pressure on the rectal veins and this results in formation of hemorrhoids.
- Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Sitting for long periods results in pressure build up in the rectal area and hence one should not sit for long.
- Low-Fiber Diet: Diet with Low fiber content may cause constipation and straining that poses a threat of piles.
- Aging: As one age, the anchoring tissues that hold the blood vessels underlying the rectum and anus can degenerate resulting in hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can cause a range of symptoms, which vary depending on their type and severity:
- Painless Bleeding: Bright red blood may be observed on toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.
- Itching or Irritation: Skin around anus may develop itching or redness of the skin.
- Pain or Discomfort: This type of hemorrhoids can therefore cause various symptoms including pain and swelling especially when defecating.
- Swelling Around the Anus: This means that lumps which may sometimes be described as swelling at the anal region may be arising from external hemorrhoids.
- Mucus Discharge: Some people may experience mucus production after they have defecated and this is perfectly normal.
- A Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation: After defecation there may be a feeling that the colon is not empty.
Hemorrhoids Treatment
Currently anyone who has the symptoms of hemorrhoids should seek medical help for diagnosis. The diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical Examination: An assessment or inspection of the perianal area as a way of looking for the external hemorrhoids.
- Digital Rectal Exam: A doctor may anesthetize the area before putting a gloved finger that is lubricated into the rectum to check for hemorrhoids.
- Anoscopy: There is a hollow, lighted tube used in examining the anus to determine the presence of internal hemorrhoids.
- Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: Sometimes other conditions for example colorectal cancer should be ruled out by carrying out further tests.
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