Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids or piles are swollen veins in lower rectum or anus. 

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids may be external or internal. If they develop inside the rectum, they are called internal hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids develop around the anus just below the skin. Some of the external hemorrhoids develop blood clots and are quite painful. They are called thrombosed hemorrhoids. Another type of piles is so large that they often protrude during defecation. They are called prolapsing piles.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

The exact cause of hemorrhoids is unknown. Possible causes include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Prolonged straining to pass stools (If you suffer constipation)
• Obesity
• Diet low in fiber
• Chronic diarrhea
• Anal intercourse

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

The symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Pain and discomfort
• Pain may increase during defecation
• Bleeding, which is commonly observed during defecation
• Itching or irritation to the anal area
• Lumps outside the anus which may or may not be painful
• Your anal area may be swollen

Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids

The presence of hemorrhoids is diagnosed by your doctor digitally with a gloved finger. Your doctor may use an anoscope, sigmoidoscopy or a proctoscope to check for internal piles.

Treatment of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are never life-threatening. The symptoms of bowel cancer may be like hemorrhoid symptoms. Therefore, it is important to be properly diagnosed.

Most hemorrhoids are treated by non-surgical methods. Minimally-invasive procedures are found to be effective in many patients. Surgery may be needed in extreme cases.

Prevention of Hemorrhoids

Follow these simple lifestyle and diet habits to avoid the occurrence of hemorrhoids.

• Eat a high fiber diet. Do not consume foods such as chips, ice creams, fast food, frozen food, processed food, red meat, etc. which may increase chances of constipation and hemorrhoids.
• Stay physically active. Exercise maintains gastrointestinal health.
• If you are obese, plan a weight loss program.
• If you are suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, properly manage it.