Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels surrounding the anus and inside the rectum. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and cannot be
diagnosed except through a rectal examination. External hemorrhoids are
located outside the anus and can be diagnosed by visualization.
Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels surrounding the anus and inside the rectum. Reasons for acquiring hemorrhoids include:
Straining while having a bowel movement
Pregnant women who strain due to added pressure of the baby, restricting blood flow around the anus
Hereditary reasons, causing the wall of the veins to be weak
Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and cannot be diagnosed except through a rectal examination. External hemorrhoids are located outside the anus and can be diagnosed by visualization.
For milder to moderate cases of hemorrhoids, topical creams such as Preparation H can be used to alleviate pain until the hemorrhoid has a chance to heal. Sometimes straining can be caused by constipation, which is caused by not including enough fiber in the diet. Increasing fiber bulks and softens the stools. High fiber foods include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, whole grain breads and whole grain cereals. In addition to a high fiber diet, individuals can include a fiber supplement such as Citrucel or Metamucil.
Daily exercise can be very helpful at eliminating hemorrhoids, as it increases metabolism and blood flow to reduce straining. After exercising, one can draw a warm sitz bath and soak for about thirty minutes. This will improve blood flow and relax the internal sphincter within the anal area.
For more severe cases of hemorrhoids, one can opt for a hemorrhoidectomy. This is a surgical procedure which involves removing extra hemorrhoid tissue within the lining of the anal canal. This procedure is very safe, with a ninety-five percent rate of success.
