By Adam T Jones
Hemorrhoid or pile is rarely a topic of everyday conversation. This medical condition is so embarrassing that no one likes to talk about it. What's worse is that people who have this ailment do not care to seek medical advice unless their daily activities and comfort is affected by the condition.
How much do you know about hemorrhoids? The following frequently asked questions will reveal some important tips about this silent yet prevalent disorder.
What are Hemorrhoids?
Also known as piles, hemorrhoids are inflamed veins in the anal area due to increased pressure in the rectal veins. We all are susceptible to this condition because we all have hemorrhoidal veins inside and outside of the anus.
How Hemorrhoids develop?
When the walls of the rectum are subjected to increased pressure, the muscles supporting the hemorrhoidal veins weaken. Without these support, the veins enlarge and form a soft lump or protrusion around the anal opening. Lumps formed inside the rectal canal are called internal hemorrhoids, while lumps formed outside the anus is called external hemorrhoids.
A prolapsed hemorrhoid develops when an internal hemorrhoid is pushed outside the anal opening. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid develops when blood clot form in the external hemorrhoid.
What causes Hemorrhoids?
Causes of hemorrhoid may include the following;
1. Constant straining due to constipation
2. Low fiber diet
3. Anal intercourse
4. Sneezing, coughing, and vomiting
5. Bouts of diarrhea
6. Sedentary lifestyle
7. Overweight
8. Lifting too much weight
9. Liver cirrhosis
10. Anal infection
What are the symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
Common symptoms are:
1. Small amount of blood in the stool
2. Blood on the toilet paper after wiping
3. Incomplete bowel movements
4. Rectal itching
5. Soft sac-like protrusion felt at the anal opening
How to prevent Hemorrhoids?
1. Include more fiber and liquid in your diet. Constipation is one of the significant causes of hemorrhoids so do not eat foods that may cause indigestion. Instead eat more fruits and vegetables.
2. Don't delay waste disposal when you feel like to, else your stool may harden. Drinking a lot of water may soften the stool reducing straining.
3. Maintain an active lifestyle. Exercise help reduces pressure in the veins and so reduces constipation. Don't sit around too long.
How to treat Hemorrhoids?
1. Take a warm tub or sitz baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes.
2. Use Ice packs to help reduce swelling of hemorrhoids.
3. Apply hemorrhoidal creams to the affected area. Natural ingredients are the best.
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