Holy Hemorrhoids Batman!
Hemorrhoids
On this page:
What are hemorrhoids?
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
How common are hemorrhoids?
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
What is the treatment?
How are hemorrhoids prevented?
What are hemorrhoids?
The term hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed.
Hemorrhoids may result from straining to move stool. Other contributing factors include pregnancy, aging, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and anal intercourse.
Hemorrhoids are either inside the anus (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external). (See figure.)
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What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Many anorectal problems, including fissures, fistulae, abscesses, or irritation and itching (pruritus ani), have similar symptoms and are incorrectly referred to as hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids usually are not dangerous or life threatening. In most cases, hemorrhoidal symptoms will go away within a few days.
Although many people have hemorrhoids, not all experience symptoms. The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood covering the stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. However, an internal hemorrhoid may protrude through the anus outside the body, becoming irritated and painful. This is known as a protruding hemorrhoid.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids may include painful swelling or a hard lump around the anus that results when a blood clot forms. This condition is known as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid.
In addition, excessive straining, rubbing, or cleaning around the anus may cause irritation with bleeding and/or itching, which may produce a vicious cycle of symptoms. Draining mucus may also cause itching.
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How common are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are very common in both men and women. About half of the population have hemorrhoids by age 50. Hemorrhoids are also common among pregnant women. The pressure of the fetus in the abdomen, as well as hormonal changes, cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to enlarge. These vessels are also placed under severe pressure during childbirth. For most women, however, hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy are a temporary problem.
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How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis by the doctor is important any time bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool occurs. Bleeding may also be a symptom of other digestive diseases, including colorectal cancer.
The doctor will examine the anus and rectum to look for swollen blood vessels that indicate hemorrhoids and will also perform a digital rectal exam with a gloved, lubricated finger to feel for abnormalities.
Closer evaluation of the rectum for hemorrhoids requires an exam with an anoscope, a hollow, lighted tube useful for viewing internal hemorrhoids, or a proctoscope, useful for more completely examining the entire rectum.
To rule out other causes of gastrointestinal bleeding, the doctor may examine the rectum and lower colon (sigmoid) with sigmoidoscopy or the entire colon with colonoscopy. Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are diagnostic procedures that also involve the use of lighted, flexible tubes inserted through the rectum.
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What is the treatment?
Medical treatment of hemorrhoids is aimed initially at relieving symptoms. Measures to reduce symptoms include
tub baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes
application of a hemorroidal cream or suppository to the affected area for a limited time
Illustration reprinted with permission from the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. Artist: Russell K. Pearl, M.D.
Preventing the recurrence of hemorrhoids will require relieving the pressure and straining of constipation. Doctors will often recommend increasing fiber and fluids in the diet. Eating the right amount of fiber and drinking six to eight glasses of fluid (not alcohol) result in softer, bulkier stools. A softer stool makes emptying the bowels easier and lessens the pressure on hemorrhoids caused by straining. Eliminating straining also helps prevent the hemorrhoids from protruding.
Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, doctors may suggest a bulk stool softener or a fiber supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel).
In some cases, hemorrhoids must be treated endoscopically or surgically. These methods are used to shrink and destroy the hemorrhoidal tissue. The doctor will perform the procedure during an office or hospital visit.
A number of methods may be used to remove or reduce the size of internal hemorrhoids. These techniques include
Rubber band ligation. A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside the rectum. The band cuts off circulation, and the hemorrhoid withers away within a few days.
Sclerotherapy. A chemical solution is injected around the blood vessel to shrink the hemorrhoid.
Infrared coagulation. A special device is used to burn hemorrhoidal tissue.
Hemorrhoidectomy. Occasionally, extensive or severe internal or external hemorrhoids may require removal by surgery known as hemorrhoidectomy.
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How are hemorrhoids prevented?
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft so they pass easily, thus decreasing pressure and straining, and to empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs. Exercise, including walking, and increased fiber in the diet help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass.
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The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in this document are used only because they are considered necessary in the context of the information provided. If a product is not mentioned, the omission does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory.
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National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
2 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892–3570
Email: nddic@info.niddk.nih.gov
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The NIDDK is part of the National Institutes of Health under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1980, the Clearinghouse provides information about digestive diseases to people with digestive disorders and to their families, health care professionals, and the public. The NDDIC answers inquiries, develops and distributes publications, and works closely with professional and patient organizations and Government agencies to coordinate resources about digestive diseases.
Publications produced by the Clearinghouse are carefully reviewed by both NIDDK scientists and outside experts.
This publication is not copyrighted. The Clearinghouse encourages users of this publication to duplicate and distribute as many copies as desired.
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NIH Publication No. 05–3021
November 2004
2006-07-15 14:11:00
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answer #1
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answered by Jennifer B 5
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Hemorrhoids can result in a huge amount of discomfort, throb, irritation and scratching. In case you are suffering of hemorroids and you need discard them, this is surely the best approach to discard hemorrhoids : http://treathemorrhoid.kyma.info I always had stoppage or hard stools. At times i would even have torment when im resting and it would simply come on all the sudden. I figure it was a result of the nerves in that area or the body. I am normally very doubtful yet the ache was path worst than the cash it would cost to see whether it worked or not. So i tried it and it says it cure most individuals withing 48 hours session it didn't cure me that quick. In case its straining that is the problem then you need to get some more fiber in your consuming technique, notwithstanding no short of what 8 glasses of water of the day. In case its irritation then use simply sensitive tissue and add aloe to calm the area down. There are furthermore certain nourishments that can offer support. Trust me take after this technique: http://treathemorrhoid.kyma.info It unquestionably tackled my hemorrhoids problem .If you take after this procedure for a couple of days you will see that your problem will vanish.
2014-09-29 05:52:01
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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I have hemorrhoids. Sometimes when I go #2, afterwards I dont feel itchy or uncomfortable or anything. Other times, I do. It sounds like you have hemorrhoids. Especially with you saying its bright red blood. I wouldnt worry about it too much. There isnt anything you can do about them. Just when you go back to the doctor talk to them about it. They can prescribe you something in case it ever does get uncomfortable for you. My mom had them so bad that she had to have surgery but she is way past menopause. Just make sure you arent constipated and you dont strain too much cuz that can make them worse! Good Luck! I hope this helps! Also, if it does become uncomfortable, try sitting in a warm bath, that always helps me too! Congrats!
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2016-04-16 06:01:17
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answer #3
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answered by ? 4
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Hemorrhoids are associated with constipation and straining at bowel movements. How to get rid of hemorrhoids https://tr.im/Ka9a7
Pregnancy is also associated with hemorrhoids. These conditions lead to increased pressure within the hemorrhoidal veins that causes them to swell. Other conditions, for example chronic liver disease, may also cause increased venous pressure and may be associated with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are very common and are estimated to occur in up to one-half of the population by age 50.
2016-05-01 22:01:54
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answer #4
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answered by kala 3
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