Seventy five percent of the population suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their adult lives and very often, they do not even know it! In spite of this, doctors have not really been able to put their finger on what exactly causes hemorrhoids.
Also commonly known as piles, hemorrhoids come about whenever the veins around the anus or lower rectum become swollen and inflamed. This brings about bleeding within the anus and it can also cause blood clots. This often occurs during pregnancy, constipation, straining to move stool, anal intercourse, or continuous diarrhea. Symptoms include bleeding from the anus, irritation and itching around the rectal region.
Drink more water, get more exercise, make sure fibre rich vegetables form a large part of your meals, avoid sitting for extended periods, and take vitamin supplements. All these measures increase the body’s vascular circulation, thereby strengthening vein walls and making them less susceptible to rupture and swelling.
There are many treatments available for hemorrhoids and this depends on the condition and symptoms. External hemorrhoids that occur outside the rectal canal are with topical ointments and creams to decrease the pain, if detected early.
Hemorrhoid s are of two types: External hemorrhoids that occur outside the rectum and under the anus; and internal hemorrhoids that occur inside the anal canal. Internal hemorrhoids often go undetected, as there are no pain receptors in this region. Due to this, when left untreated, internal hemorrhoids tend to become distended and get pushed outside the anus – causing a condition known as prolapsed or strangulated hemorrhoid.
Treatment for hemorrhoid is a relatively simple surgery that involves stopping the blood flow to the main artery that supplies blood to the inflamed vein. Doctors may choose to treat the condition with topical ointments and creams if detected early; or suggest procedures such as Doppler filigation, hemorrhoidectomy, or sclerotherapy depending on the severity of the condition and symptoms.
