Hemorrhoids - Symptoms and causes

 

Haemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, also pronounced "HEM-uh-roids," are enlarged veins located in the lower rectum and anus. Varicose veins and hemorrhoids are comparable. Internal hemorrhoids are hemorrhoids that occur inside the rectum. They can also form external hemorrhoids, which are under the skin around the anus.

Treatment options for hemorrhoids are numerous. A lot of people find relief with lifestyle modifications and at-home therapies.

Symptoms

The type of hemorrhoid usually determines the symptoms.

Internal hemorrhoids

Inside the rectum are internal hemorrhoids. They rarely cause discomfort and are typically invisible or felt. However, when passing stool, straining or irritation might result in:

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements. You might notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet.

• A hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening, called a prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid. This may result in pain and irritation.

External hemorrhoids

These are under the skin around the anus. Symptoms might include:

• Itching or irritation in the anal region.

• Pain or discomfort.

• Swelling around the anus.

• Bleeding.

Thrombosed hemorrhoids

An external hemorrhoid may collect blood, which might clot into a thrombus. Following a thrombosed hemorrhoid:

• Severe pain.

• Swelling.

• Inflammation.

• A hard, discolored lump near the anus.

When to see a doctor

Speak with your healthcare professional if you experience bleeding after bowel movements or if your hemorrhoids don't get better after a week at home.

In particular, if your bowel habits alter or the color or substance of your feces changes, don't automatically assume that rectal bleeding is the result of hemorrhoids. Other conditions, such as anal and colorectal cancer, can cause rectal bleeding.

If you experience significant rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting, get emergency assistance.

Causes

Under pressure, the veins surrounding the anus have a tendency to expand and may bulge or enlarge. Higher pressure in the lower rectum might result in hemorrhoids for the following reasons:

• Straining during bowel movements.

• Sitting for long periods of time, especially on the toilet.

• Having chronic diarrhoea or constipation.

• Being obese.

• Being pregnant.

• Having anal intercourse.

• Eating a low-fiber diet.

• Straining to lift heavy objects or weightlifting.

Risk factors

The likelihood of hemorrhoids rises with age. This is due to the fact that the tissues supporting the veins in the anus and rectum may deteriorate and sag. Because of the pressure that the baby's weight places on the anal area, this can also occur during pregnancy.

Complications

Complications of hemorrhoids are rare but may include:

• Anemia. Rarely, ongoing blood loss from hemorrhoids may cause anemia. Anemia is when there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's cells.

• Strangulated hemorrhoid. When the blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid is cut off, the hemorrhoid is called strangulated. Strangulated hemorrhoids can cause extreme pain.

• Blood clot. Sometimes a clot can form in a hemorrhoid. This is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Although not dangerous, it can be extremely painful and sometimes needs to be drained.

Prevention

The best defense against hemorrhoids is to have soft, easily-passable faeces. Use these advice to prevent hemorrhoids and lessen their symptoms:

• Eat high-fiber foods. Consume more whole grains, fruits, and veggies. By doing this, the stool gets softer and more substantial. By doing this, you can prevent the straining that can result in hemorrhoids. Gradually incorporate more fiber into your diet to prevent gas issues.

• Drink plenty of fluids. To help keep stools soft, drink 6 to 8 glasses of water and other liquids every day. Steer clear of alcohol as well.

• Consider fiber supplements. The majority of people's diets don't contain enough fiber. Research has indicated that over-the-counter dietary supplements containing methylcellulose (Citrucel) or psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, and other brands) can reduce hemorrhoid symptoms and bleeding. Make sure you get at least eight glasses of water or other fluids each day if you take fiber supplements. If not, the supplements may worsen or even induce constipation.

• Don't strain. Straining and holding your breath when trying to pass stool create greater pressure in the veins in the lower rectum.

• Exercise. Stay active to help prevent constipation and reduce pressure on veins. Exercise also can help you lose excess weight that might be causing your hemorrhoids or making them worse.

• Avoid long periods of sitting. Sitting too long, especially on the toilet, can increase the pressure on the veins in the anus.

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