Hemorrhoids are often caused by increased pressure because of pregnancy, strains during bowel movements or being overweight. By midlife, this health issue can be a persistent complaint in approximately half the population. Though hemorrhoids aren’t dangerous, they might be a painful and recurrent intrusion. Fortunately, there is a lot that you can do to overcome them. In this guide, we’ll show you all you need to know about hemorrhoids and how to avoid them.
What are hemorrhoids?
In general, everyone has piles or hemorrhoids, which are the pillow-like clusters of the veins lying just under the anus and rectum. This health issue happens when these veins get distended and swollen. In most cases, the walls of the blood vessels might stretch so thin that your veins will get irritated and bulge, particularly when you are pooping.
Hemorrhoids are among most common reasons form rectal bleeding. However, they often clear up in a few weeks and are rarely dangerous. But you should visit the doctor to ensure that it isn’t a serious condition.
Internal versus external hemorrhoids
There are 2 types of hemorrhoids:
– External hemorrhoids
This condition, which often develops around the anus, is more uncomfortable than internal hemorrhoids as the overlying skin erodes and get irritated. If there is a blood clot inside external hemorrhoids, the pain would be severe and sudden. You could see or feel a lump around this area. The clot often dissolves and leaves excess skin, which might get irritated or itch.
They often develop in the lower rectum and can be painless, even when you are bleeding. Internal hemorrhoids might also prolapse and extend, thus resulting in several problems.
The signs of hemorrhoids often depend on your conditions, but here are some commons symptoms:
– Swelling around the anus
– Irritation or itching in the anal region
– Painless bleeding throughout bowel movements
– A painful or sensitive lump near the anusWhat causes hemorrhoids?
Experts are still divided on the exact causes of hemorrhoids. In general, they are often associated with prolonged toilet sitting, strains during bowel movements or chronic constipation – all of these activities interfere with the blood flow and enlarge the blood vessels. That’s why hemorrhoids usually develop during pregnancy when the veins are pressed by the enlarging uterus.
Many recent studies have shown that a patient with hemorrhoids tends to have a higher anal canal tone, meaning that the smooth muscles of this area will be tighter than the average. Constipation makes these troubles worse as straining during bowel movements can increase pressure and push the hemorrhoids against sphincter muscles. As a result, hemorrhoids will prolapse and bulge.
Hemorrhoid cure and treatment
The most effective way to remedy the situation is to have more fiber in your daily diet. Along with adequate water, fiber can soften stools and make them pass easily, thus reducing pressure on the hemorrhoids. Some foods with high levels of fiber include fresh fruit, whole-grain foods, oat bran, wheat, beans, and broccoli. Fiber supplements can help reduce hemorrhoid bleeding, enlargement, and inflammation.
Some people might experience gas or bloating when boosting fiber. So make sure to start slowly and increase the intake gradually to 25 o 30g per day. Also, make sure to increase the fluid intake.
Doing some moderate exercises per day like brisk walking in 30 minutes or yoga could help to stimulate the bowel function.
Whenever feel the need to defecate, it’s advisable to go to the toilet immediately. If you wait until a convenient time, stool might back up, resulting in straining and increased pressure. Also, try scheduling a fixed time each day like after dinner or breakfast to sit on the toilet for a couple of minutes. This might help you have a regular habit of bowel movements.
OTC hemorrhoid ointment or creams which contain an anesthetic could help to soothe the pain temporarily. Make sure to choose those products that have natural formulas to avoid any harmful effects. Read this extensive Venapro review for another promising alternative. Also, placing a small pack of ices against your anal area for a couple of minutes would help to reduce swelling and pain. To prevent the formation of the new hemorrhoids, it is advisable to sit on cushions instead of hard surfaces.