What are Hemorroids?
Hemorroids are swollen veins in the lowest parts of ones rectum and anus. Increased pressure cause these blood vessels stretch thin, swell, get irritated and sometimes get ruptured. Hemorrhoids are a common cause of rectal bleeding.
They are not usually dangerous but they can cause a lot of discomfort, pain and irritation but can clear up in a week or two.
Symptoms
The symptoms of hemorrhoids depend upon the type that is present.
Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum, one doesn't see or feel them.. they are evident mainly through bright red rectal bleeding when passing stool.
External hemorrhoids are visible under the skin seen as moist pink bumps around the anus. One will feel pain when passing stool along with with darker red bleeding if they get raptured.
Causes
Increase pressure in the abdomen is believed to be a major factor in the cause of haemorroids. This pressure may be brought about by consistent constipation or diarrhea, and straining to push during bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids are also common during pregnancy.
Treatment
Most often, no specific treatment is required.
Measures to control hemorrhoids include increasing fibre intake and drinking fluids to help soften stool.
Avoid straining and pushing while attempting to pass stool and maintain a diet containing sufficient fibre and fluids. Avoid reading or responding to phone messages while in the toilet.
Also spend less time attempting to pass stool.