What are and how do you get hemorrhoids?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:
* Chronic constipation: Straining to have a bowel movement can put pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, causing them to swell.
* Diarrhea: Diarrhea can cause the skin around the anus to become irritated, which can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
* Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy can cause the veins in the rectum and anus to swell.
* Obesity: Obesity can put extra pressure on the veins in the abdomen, which can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
* Aging: The muscles and tissues around the rectum and anus can weaken with age, which can increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
How to get hemorrhoids:
There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids, including:
* Eat a high-fiber diet: Eating a diet rich in fiber can help to keep your stools soft and easy to pass, which can reduce the risk of straining and developing hemorrhoids.
* Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids can help to keep your stools soft and prevent constipation.
* Exercise regularly: Exercise can help to improve your circulation and reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
* Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight can help to reduce the pressure on the veins in the abdomen and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
* Avoid straining: Straining to have a bowel movement can put pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, so it's important to avoid this.
* Use a stool softener or laxative: If you have constipation, you may want to use a stool softener or laxative to help soften your stools and make them easier to pass.
If you develop hemorrhoids, there are a number of treatments that can help to relieve the pain and discomfort, including:
* Over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories: These products can help to relieve pain, itching, and swelling.
* Sitz baths: Sitz baths can help to relieve pain and discomfort.
* Rubber band ligation: This is a procedure in which a rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to shrink and fall off.
* Sclerotherapy: This is a procedure in which a solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
* Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove severe hemorrhoids.