From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Hemorrhoids are the swelling and inflammation of veins in the rectum and anus.
Two of the most common types of hemorrhoids are external and internal hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are those that occur outside of the anal opening. They are usually painful, and are often accompanied by itching, swelling, and burning sensation. If the vein ruptures and a blood clot develops, the hemorrhoids become a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
Internal hemorrhoids are those that occur inside the rectum. As this area lack sensitive nerve endings, internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful and most people are not aware that they have them. Internal hemorrhoids, however, may bleed when irritated.
Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to two severe forms of hemorrhoids: prolapsed and strangulated hemorrhoids. Prolapsed hemorrhoid is an internal hemorrhoid that are so distended that it is pushed outside of the anus. If the anal sphincter muscle goes into spasm and trap the prolapsed hemorrhoid outside of the anal opening, the supply of blood is cut off, and the hemorrhoids become a strangulated hemorrhoid.
Hemorrhoids are very common. It is estimated that approximately half of all Americans have this condition by the age of 50. However, only a small number seek medical treatment. Annually, only about 500,000 people are medically treated for hemorrhoids, with 10 to 20% of them requiring surgeries.
The causes of hemorrhoids include genetic predisposition (weak rectal vein walls and/or valves), constipation, bouts of diarrhea, poor bathroom habits (including straining during bowel movement or reading on the toilet), pregnancy, and fiber-deprived Western diet.
Prevention of hemorrhoids include drinking more fluids, eating more fiber, and exercising. Hemorrhoid sufferers should also avoid using laxatives, straining, and reading on the toilet.
For many people, hemorrhoids are temporary conditions that heal by themselves. In this case, warm sitz bath, cold compress, or topical analgesic (such as Preparation H), is sufficient to provide temporary relief.
Chronic hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids that flare up from time to time can be medically treated by:
Natural treatments for hemorrhoids include taking herbs and dietary supplements that strengthen vein walls, such as butcher's broom, horse chestnut, bromelein, and japanese pagoda tree extracts.
Natural astringents and soothing agents, such as witch hazel, cranesbill and aloe vera, may also be used topically. Lastly, fiber-rich bulking agents such as plantain and psyllium can be used to help create soft stool that is easy to pass to lessen the irritation of existing hemorrhoids.Types and symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Prevalence
Causes
Prevention
Treatments
Severe cases of hemorrhoids, such as prolapsed, thrombosed, or strangulated hemorrhoids, surgery may be the only treatment option.
