Hemorrhoids – What Are They And How Can I Prevent Them
What are hemorrhoids? It’s the literal definition of pain in the rear. But to be more serious, hemorrhoids are swellings and the inflammation of veins around the anus and rectal region.
Hemorrhoids are a mass of swollen veins that if not taken care of properly they could cause severe itching, bleeding and pain. Bowel movements are obstructed and those who suffer from hemorrhoids will go through a lot of discomfort.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Now that you know what hemorrhoids are, it’s also important to know what causes hemorrhoids if you want to be able to get rid of them. Constipation is the number one reason why this condition occurs. This is evident in women who during their menstrual cycle lose the ability to retain water. That’s why another major cause for hemorrhoids is excessive exertion.
Another major reason is hypertension which strains the link between the portal vein in the rectal wall and the vena cava. Other things that will lead to hemorrhoids include prolonged sitting, obesity, poor posture and muscle tone that creates undue pressure in the rectal area. Pregnant women with hypertension are prone to forming hemorrhoids. Also, those who consume a lot of caffeine and even alcohol can form hemorrhoids.
Other Possibilities
Even though they feature similar patterns, hemorrhoids should not be mixed up with fistulae or fissures. Although they can be very uncomfortable, hemorrhoids are usually only temporary and are not fatal. Through proper treatment hemorrhoids can be dealt with rather easily. Hemorrhoid symptoms are not that apparent either. To know if you have hemorrhoids, you will need to look for blood in the stools and try to sense if there is any itching or pain in the anal region. Thrombosed hemorrhoids are accompanied by stiff lumps in the anus.
Healthy Diet and Exercise – The Killer Combination Against Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid formation can be caused by excessive intake of dairy products as well as deficiency in Vitamin E and a lack of fluid. Consumption of foods like yogurt will help prevent inflammation. Many times a person who has internal hemorrhoids will not be aware of it because they from inside the rectum and are usually not painful. One way to know that you do have internal hemorrhoids is if there is blood in the stool. This is usually caused by irritation.
One can prevent hemorrhoids by making certain life changes such as exercising, increasing fiber and liquid intake, and correcting one’s posture. It’s not recommended to use laxatives or to wear tight underwear when experiencing hemorrhoids because these will only worsen the condition. Right before menstruation, women should increase their intake of fluids and fiber. Use squat toilets to relieve pain.
Use creams to treat hemorrhoids in its early stages. Try to avoid steroid preparations because these may in fact aggravate the condition. The anal region should always be kept dry and clean. Try to use suppositories for further help.
Natural remedies are a good way to go when treating hemorrhoids in its early stages. But make sure you are under supervision of a doctor when doing this. It’s recommended to consult a doctor if you will follow any kind of treatment. Aloe vera, honey, horse chestnut, and witch hazel among others have proven to be effective herbal remedies. To soften stools, you may want to consume plantain, seed husks, and chamomile tea. Medical treatment for hemorrhoids include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, laser surgery, among others.
Knowing “what are hemorrhoids” is not enough if one intends to prevent or treat this condition. It’s important to be well-informed when it comes to hemorrhoids so as not to experience them later in life.