Do you know what hemorrhoids are?

Do you know what hemorrhoids are?

When a person is dealing with the itching and discomfort of hemorrhoids, they may wonder, “What exactly are hemorrhoids?” While most people don't like to talk about hemorrhoids, they are very common.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are the result of too much pressure in the rectum, which stretches the blood and sometimes causes the veins to rupture. This causes the veins, tissue sacs and surrounding membranes to swell. They can be described as similar to the varicose veins that some people get on their legs.

What can cause hemorrhoids?

Activities that can lead to hemorrhoids include constant sitting, spending a lot of time on the toilet (straining with bowel movements or frequent diarrhea), giving birth to a child, or doing a lot of heavy lifting. Does this mean that people who spend a lot of time sitting down or lifting heavy boxes at work are destined to suffer from hemorrhoids? No. Those who sit a lot at work can stand up and walk or change sitting positions during breaks, and those who do heavy lifting can make sure they exhale while straining or lifting.

Hemorrhoids are diagnosed when a doctor examines the anus and rectum. Similar symptoms to hemorrhoids may instead be caused by warts, abscesses, or polyps. A thorough examination by a doctor is also important to rule out the possibility of more serious conditions such as colon cancer.

Types

Hemorrhoids can be both external and internal. External hemorrhoids, which are found under the skin around the anus, are the most common and can be quite itchy, while internal hemorrhoids form in the lower rectum, are more painful, and can protrude outside the body.

Common symptoms

The most common symptom of both types of hemorrhoids is bright red blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper. Other symptoms include incomplete bowl movements or a soft bump at the anal opening.

Treatment

Despite the discomfort, embarrassment and inconvenience, hemorrhoids are not dangerous and usually resolve on their own. Some who have hemorrhoids don't even realize it. For those who do, there are many treatment options. Sitz baths, increased fiber intake, creams and ointments are the first steps and are usually sufficient if hemorrhoids are treated early. If they are allowed to become severe, surgery may be required.

prevention

Ways to prevent hemorrhoids include eating a healthy diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages, and exercising regularly. Since most people don't get enough fiber in their diet, taking a fiber supplement can help add more mass and prevent hemorrhoids.

Inspired by Linda Francis