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What does Hemorrhoids Mean?

Hemorrhoids are a common ailment that effects millions of people around the world. More than 75 percent of Americans will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their life, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This uncomfortable condition causes swelling and inflammation on the cushions of tissue and varicose veins in and around the rectal area. There are treatments that make hemorrhoid removal less painful.

  1. Types of Hemorrhoids

    • There are different types of hemorrhoids that can afflict you dependent on where they occur in the rectal area. Internal hemorrhoids are out of sight and occur high up in the anal canal. This type does not normally cause pain but it can bleed painlessly. Prolapsed hemorrhoids are when an internal hemorrhoid comes through the anal opening when you strain on a bowel movement. It is quite painful and is difficult to place back into the rectum. External hemorrhoids are visible hemorrhoids that afflict the veins outside of the anus causing them to balloon and appear blue. These hemorrhoids can appear without symptoms.

    Hemorrhoids Causes

    • The causes of hemorrhoids can occur from several issues. Factors that result in this type of swelling include chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining when having bowel movements, sitting on a toilet for extended periods of time and from a lack of fiber within your diet. Contributing factors can also include pregnancy because of the increase of pressure on the abdomen, weakening of the connective tissue from aging and anal intercourse.

    Hemorrhoids Symptoms

    • Many people have hemorrhoids but they do not experience symptoms. The most prevalent symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood covering the stool or on toilet paper. An internal hemorrhoid can protrude through the anus and will become irritated and painful. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include painful swelling or a hard lump caused by a blood clot. Anal itching is also an indication of hemorrhoids.

    Hemorrhoid Diagnoses and Treatment

    • Doctors will diagnose hemorrhoids by examining your anus and rectum for visible hemorrhoids, performing a digital rectal exam using a gloved, lubricated finger and an anoscope or through a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy or barium enema X-ray. Your doctor will treat this condition through rubber band ligation, scelerotherapy, surgery or infrared coagulation. You can help treat your hemorrhoids at home by increasing fiber in your diet, drinking six to eight 8 oz glasses of water daily, exercising for constipation prevention and no straining during bowel movements.

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