What do Hemorrhoids Look Like
By Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN
updated on 10/17/2006 at 06:17PM
Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting nearly one third of the American population. They develop when there is excessive pressure in the rectal or pelvic area that causes the anal veins to swell. The can occur either in the anal canal or under the skin surrounding the anus.
The Development Phase
As the body's waste enters the pelvic and rectal canal, the tissues surrounding the inside of the anus (sometimes called "anal cushions) fill with blood to help control bowel movements. Hemorrhoids develop when excessive pressure causes the veins within these cushions to swell and stretch until the surrounding tissue is no longer able to support them. Hemorrhoids frequently develop during pregnancy because of the extra pressure on these veins from the increased blood volume and enlarged uterus. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also contribute to constipation and therefore hemorrhoids. The intensity and duration of the hemorrhoids depends on what type of hemorrhoid develops.
Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that form inside the anus. They may bleed, but they are usually not painful. People who suffer from an internal hemorrhoid may see bright red blood in the stool or on the toilet tissue. An internal hemorrhoid may become a prolapsed hemorrhoid if it protrudes through the rectum and hangs outside of the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids may recede back into the rectum on their own. Or they may need to be pushed in gently. A prolapsed hemorrhoid that cannot be pushed back inside may require medical intervention.
External hemorrhoids occur in the veins around the anus. They can be itchy and painful and they will occasionally crack or bleed. External hemorrhoids may exhibit a hard lump or bump around the rectum. This lump is the result of a blood clot in the hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid) that might look like an oversized blueberry.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids include bleeding during bowel movements, pain and itching.
Who Gets Them?
Nearly half of all adults in the United States will develop hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. And just about everyone is susceptible to hemorrhoids regardless of race or gender. The tendency to develop hemorrhoids does run in families, so if your parents were hemorrhoid sufferers, it's likely that you will be too.
Prevention
Healthy bowel habits are the key to the prevention of hemorrhoids. Since constipation and diarrhea often lead to hemorrhoids, avoiding these conditions is the best way to avoid hemorrhoids. Increasing fiber and water consumption helps to soften and bulk up stools, making them easier to pass. Daily exercise also helps to stimulate the digestive muscles and move the body's waste through the system. And it's important to avoid straining during bowel movements and when lifting heavy objects.
Treatment Methods
The pain, itching and discomfort of hemorrhoids may seem unbearable at times. However, there are many things that you can do to alleviate some of these symptoms. The product Hematrex works great. A warm sitz bath can relieve the pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. To try this, soak in a warm tub for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day. Avoid using rough, dry toilet paper, or toilet paper that contains perfumes or dyes as this can irritate the sensitive tissues. Instead, clean the area with a warm, wet washcloth or a baby wipe. And do not use aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen as they can cause hemorrhoids to bleed more. Home remedies for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids include flaxseed oil, fiber supplements, and certain enemas. If your hemorrhoids are particularly troublesome or persistent, you may need to see a medical professional.
When should I see a doctor?
See your health care provider if rectal bleeding is present as this symptom can also be associated with other, more serious disorders such as colon cancer, rectal cancer, and Crohn's disease. Also, have your doctor evaluate hemorrhoids that are accompanied by a fever, or that do not go away after a week of home treatment.
Surgery Options
For troublesome hemorrhoids that won't go away, your doctor may recommend one of the following medical treatments: Clot Removal, Rubber band ligation, Sclerotherapy, Laser or Infrared Coagulation, Hemorrhoidectomy, or PPH (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids). Go to our pictures section on the Web site to see what hemorrhoids Look Like.
