Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins that may be found in your lower rectum and anus. These are pretty similar to varicose veins. There are many reasons why hemorrhoids may occur in the first place. But research shows that every 3 out of 4 adults will experience this problem timely during their lifetime. Although most causes for hemorrhoids are unknown, we will talk about the most common ones we know.
Causes
Often you will notice that the veins around your anus expand. This may result in that specific area, either bulging or swelling. In most cases, hemorrhoids occur due to the exertion of increased pressure in the lower rectum. Here is why that may happen.
- During pregnancy
- Engaging in anal intercourse
- Consistent heavy lifting
- Consuming a low fiber diet
- Suffering from obesity
- Sitting on the toilet for long hours
- Straining during bowel movements
- Suffering from constipation or chronic diarrhea
Symptoms
Hemorrhoids may come with a host of signs and symptoms. If you observe them, you will be able to seek the proper treatment on time. Also, please do not delay to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of this. Generally, the symptoms of hemorrhoids rely on the type of hemorrhoids you have.
External Hemorrhoids
These are present under the skin surrounding your anus. The signs and symptoms may include-
- Extreme discomfort or pain
- Swelling around your anus
- Bleeding in that area
- Continuous itching and irritation in your anal region
Internal Hemorrhoids
These are located inside your rectum. It is typically difficult for a person to see or feel them; this type of hemorrhoids may also be unlikely to cause any discomfort. However, one may experience irritation while passing their bowels. So you may be able to experience-
- Bleeding that is painless while you are experiencing your bowels. During this time, you may be able to observe small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet seat.
- Hemorrhoid to push via the anal opening. This results in irritation and a lot of pain.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
This is when blood clots in your anus. The signs may be:
- Swelling
- Inflation
- A massive lump near your anus
- Consistent and severe pain
Risk Factors
The risk of hemorrhoids may increase as you age. This is due to the tissues that support the veins located in your rectum. As a result, your anus may become vulnerable and expand. Although it is even familiar during pregnancy, it is essential to recognize the problem and seek immediate help when in need. The complications may be rare, but they may contain:
Blood clot
It is not uncommon to find a blood clot in your hemorrhoid. In most cases, it is not dangerous, but it can be excruciating. That is why it may be required to drain and lance in many cases.
Anemia
Although it is very uncommon to suffer from Anemia, extreme blood loss from hemorrhoids may cause it to occur. This is because there are not enough healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen to different cells of your body.
Strangulated Hemorrhoid
When the blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid is restricted, the hemorrhoid is likely to become strangulated. Such a thing results in acute pain that can be hard to deal with.
Prevention
Consume High-fiber foods
Doctors often recommend people to consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains when suffering hemorrhoids. Such a thing may help soften the stool and reduce the pressure that is created. As a result, you can be at a better place of reducing hemorrhoids and their significant risks. It also helps you to avoid gastric problems.
Drink Enough Fluids
Doctors often recommend you drink six to eight glasses of water and other liquids for best practice. It will help reduce the strain and make it easier for the stools to pass. As such, you can do away with the hemorrhoids without much inconvenience.
Try To Intake Fiber Supplements
No matter how much fiber you eat, sometimes it doesn’t quite meet your dietary demands. That is why you must indulge in eating nearly 20 to 30 grams of fiber in a day for the best practice. If you are short of fiber foods, you can also consume fiber supplements for the time being. Speak to your doctor, and they will assign you some of the best fiber supplements to intake for this purpose.
Avoid Strain
Generally, we try to hold our stools or put enough pressure on them to make them pass through easily. While doing that, sometimes it is okay. However, performing the same regularly can increase the risks of hemorrhoids. That is why it is best to avoid any strain as far as possible.
Indulge In Enough Exercise
Staying active is one of the most effective ways to deal with the risks of hemorrhoids. It helps reduce pressure on the veins and makes you sit or stand without any hassle. Exercise may also help you lose excess weight that may contribute to the strain on your body resulting in hemorrhoids.
Don’t Sit For Long
In many cases, sitting for a long time on the toilet can be one of the primary reasons for hemorrhoids. So, you may want to avoid that for the best practice.
Go When You Feel The Urge
We often try to hold on to our stools because we are either too lazy to do it or too busy for it. But in either case, your health is at a heightened risk because you are creating enough strain. This may result in hemorrhoids in no time. So, you have to avoid that.
When To Visit The Doctor?
During any visible signs and symptoms, do not hesitate to contact a doctor. You may also seek their assistance when you experience bleeding during bowel movements. If such a thing doesn’t improve in a week, it is time to pursue your doctor’s help. So, do not hesitate. Make sure you consult a doctor whenever in need and restore your wellbeing in no time. It always works.
Reference Links
https://www.healthline.com/health/hemorrhoids
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268
