Hemorrhoids: Information and Treatment Options
Hemorrhoids are among the most common of ailments, These swollen, inflamed veins are found internally, in the rectum, and externally, under the skin of the anal region.
Symptoms of hemorrhoids are: Bloody, though painless, bowel movements, irritation, pain and itching of the anal region, hemorrhoids that protrude from the anus, swelling or a sensitive lump around the anal region, and leakage of feces.
The veins in the anal region stretch when under pressure, causing swelling and bulging. Straining during the passage of stools, sitting too long on a toilet, pregnancy, diarrhea or constipation that is considered chronic, or anal intercourse – these are all causes of this increased pressure. The tendency towards hemorrhoids can be hereditary. In addition, the tissues that support the veins become weaker with age. This is why hemorrhoids become more common as people age.
There are many hemorrhoid treatments available that can relieve symptoms, though they cannot make hemorrhoids go away. For those experiencing mild discomfort, there are many ointments, creams, suppositories and pads available without prescription. The common ingredients in these products are hydrocortisone or witch hazel, which are effective in the temporary relief of pain and itching. Be aware that the use of these products for longer periods than recommended can cause skin rashes, thinning, and/or inflammation. Bathe the anal area daily with warm water and without soap, which can cause further irritation. Drying the area with a hair dryer reduces moisture, which is helpful. Warm baths, several a day, can also be helpful. Applying cold compresses or ice to the anus will reduce swelling. Moist wipes or wet toilet tissue that is perfume and alcohol-free are preferable to dry toilet paper. Finally, a sitz bath, available at pharmacies and medical supply stores, can give relief.
If over-the-counter products do not give you adequate results, or if hemorrhoids are causing frequent and/or excessive bleeding, or if you are experiencing more than mild pain, you should seek medical attention. Also if you are passing maroon, black or tarry stools, or if there are blood or blood clots visible in the stool, you must seek the advice of a physician, for these symptoms can signal further bleeding in the digestive tract. A physician’s attention is also necessary if hemorrhoid symptoms appear in concurrence with significant changes in one’s bowel habits. In-office procedures may be necessary to relieve more serious hemorrhoid symptoms. Blood clots that can form in external hemorrhoids can easily be removed with a small incision by a physician. There are other minimally invasive outpatient procedures to relieve hemorrhoids that are causing pain and excessive bleeding. If these more minimal procedures are not successful, or if the hemorrhoid is large, a surgical procedure, such as a hemorrhoidectomy, which can involve an overnight stay in a hospital, may be necessary.
Prevention is, of course, the preferred remedy. It is best to try to prevent hemorrhoids with a high-fiber diet consisting of more fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. Also drink a lot of fluid. Eight glasses of non-alcoholic liquids a day are recommended. Lastly, it is best not to sit or stand for extended periods, and to exercise regularly. Following these tips will cause the stools to soften, give the veins a relief from pressure, thus eliminating the most common causes of hemorrhoids.
This author writes on a variety of health subjects and is especially interested in natural and homeopathic remedies for common ailments such as hemroids. The author would like readers to know that many problems facing Americans such as obesity, heart disease and even ordinary problems such as hemorrhoids can be controlled or perhaps even seriously decreased with simple life style changes.
