Sit Down Again Monthly
June, 2007
Information on hemorrhoids, treatments, symptoms, and more.
Hemorrhoid Information
Nearly everyone will have a hemorrhoid at some point in his or her lives. Yet many people are still unsure exactly what hemorrhoids are, let alone how to treat them or prevent them. In order to understand hemorrhoids, its important to understand how they develop and what changes you can make to avoid them.
How Hemorrhoids Develop
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 and other factors cause the veins within these cushions to swell and stretch. When the surrounding tissue is no longer able to support these swollen veins, they will begin to bulge either in the anal canal or under the skin surrounding the anus. Hemorrhoids frequently develop during pregnancy because of the extra pressure on 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.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that form inside the anus. They are usually not painful, but they may bleed. Bright red blood in the stool or on the toilet tissue is a classic symptom of an internal hemorrhoid. Sometimes, 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 go back if they are gently pushed. A prolapsed hemorrhoid that cannot be pushed inside may require medical intervention.
External hemorrhoids occur in the veins around the anus. They can be itchy and painful and occasionally, an external hemorrhoid will crack or bleed. They are characterized by swelling or a hard lump around the rectum. This lump is the result of a blood clot in the hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid.) This lump will look like an oversized blueberry and it can be quite irritating and painful.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins that develop when excessive pressure is exerted on the veins of the rectal area. Constipation and diarrhea are common causes of hemorrhoids. The excessive straining during bowel movements associated with constipation, and the explosive bowel movements of diarrhea, both put tremendous pressure on the anus. Other factors that can lead to the development of hemorrhoids include weight, pregnancy, child birth, medical conditions (such as heart and liver disease,) tumors in the pelvis area, violent coughing, heavy lifting, and prolonged sitting or standing. You may have an increased chance of developing hemorrhoids if the tendency tuns in your family. Age is another factor, in that half of all people older than 50 years of age seek treatment for hemorrhoids. Infections in the rectal area and spinal cord injuries can also lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids include bleeding during bowel movements, pain, and itching. In extreme cases, a vein inside an external hemorrhoid will break, allowing blood to pool under the skin and form a hard, painful lump. This is called a thrombosed or clotted hemorrhoid. A thrombosed hemorrhoid looks similar to an oversized blueberry. When such a hemorrhoid is present, the sufferer will likely experience rectal bleeding and intense pain that may hinder sitting or standing.
Prevention of Hemorrhoids
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to establish healthy bowel habits. This in turn prevents the constipation and diarrhea that often lead to hemorrhoids. Increasing fiber and water consumption will help 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. Also, avoid straining during bowel movements and when lifting heavy objects. I recommend the product Oxy-Powder to keep the bowels clean.
Treatment of Hemorrhoids
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. To relieve the pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids, 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. In sever instances, your health care provider may recommend a medical procedure such as Clot Removal, Rubber band ligation, Sclerotherapy, Laser or Infrared Coagulation, Hemorrhoidectomy, or PPH (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids.)Hemorrhoid Information.