Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable condition that often cause itching, pain and burning sensations in the rectum and anus veins. When this occurs, these veins swell up and stretch, eventually becoming inflamed and infected with hemorrhage.
Hemorrhoids can be divided into four distinct categories, including internal hemorrhoids, prolapsed hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids and thrombosed hemorrhoids. Based on your condition’s type, symptoms and severity level, different treatment options are available to address it.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal Hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids, located within the lower rectum, are generally painless. When straining during bowel movements, however, they may bleed freely causing bright red blood on toilet paper or from your anus dripping down into it. When they protrude through anus this is called prolapsed hemorrhoid which can be both painful and itchy.
Hemorrhoids typically result from increased pressure in an area, typically from sitting for long periods or pregnancy, as well as from digestive disorders like constipation or diarrhea; or during menopause.
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for symptoms and signs of hemorrhoids in both the anus and rectum. He or she may use gloved fingers with lubrication to gently probe for any tenderness, itching, bumps or other telltale indicators that could indicate hemorrhoids are present.
Furthermore, they may perform digital rectal examination to detect blood vessels or tissue growth around your anus.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in your anus and rectum veins during bowel movements, especially constipation or diarrhea that doesn’t go away, heavy lifting, sitting for too long periods, strain during heavy lifting or prolonged sitting, hereditary conditions (if either parent had them, you have an increased chance), or strain during heavy lifting or sitting too often.
They can also be hereditary; therefore if one or both parents had hemorrhoids you have an increased chance of them as well.
Hemorrhoids typically manifest without pain; however, symptoms may include bleeding during bowel movements and itchy rectal area. They may also produce a painful lump near the anus.
Prolapsed hemorrhoids often present as hard lumps that protrude from the anus during bowel movements. Left untreated, they can progress into thrombosed hemorrhoids or strangulated hemorrhoids that require medical intervention to relieve.
Your doctor can perform rubber band ligation to cut off their blood supply so your internal hemorrhoids will shrink and fall off more rapidly without an adequate blood source.
External Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a very common problem, particularly among middle aged individuals as the tissues supporting veins in your rectum and anus weaken or stretch, or during pregnancy when baby weight puts pressure on anal area.
External hemorrhoids often don’t require medical treatment and will resolve themselves on their own. They appear as red, itchy lumps on the anal canal that sometimes bleed during bowel movements or when being cleaned off with tissue wipes.
Avoid or lower the risk of hemorrhoids with lifestyle modifications such as increasing fiber in your diet and not straining during bowel movements, engaging in more physical activity and sitting for shorter periods. These steps will improve blood flow and decrease swelling from hemorrhoids.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
Every individual has small veins supplying blood to their anus and rectum that, when irritated or compressed, can enlarge and become painful. When hemorrhoids thrombose into blood clots they can cause rectal pain, itching, or bleeding if left untreated.
Thrombosed hemorrhoids often develop due to strain during bowel movements, constipation or pregnancy putting too much pressure on veins. A healthcare provider can diagnose such hemorrhoids with a physical exam including rectal inspection.
External hemorrhoids differ from their internal counterparts in that they don’t cause discomfort during bowel movements, unlike internal ones which form under sensitive tissue near the anus and can result in itching and irritation.
If an external hemorrhoid is identified with thrombosed tendencies, doctors can perform a procedure known as external thrombectomy and drain it using small cuts on its swollen areas before draining any blood or clot build-up from within it – typically this treatment can be completed successfully right in their doctor’s offices if necessary.
What Are the Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, a common condition characterized by swollen blood vessels in the anus and rectum, can be caused by various factors. Let’s explore the primary causes of hemorrhoids in detail:
1. Straining during bowel movements
The act of straining or pushing excessively during bowel movements puts significant pressure on the anus and rectum, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.
2. Prolonged sitting on the toilet
Sitting on the toilet for extended periods, often seen while reading or using electronic devices, can increase pressure on the rectal area, contributing to hemorrhoids.
3. Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Frequent episodes of constipation or diarrhea can strain the bowel movements, causing the blood vessels in the rectum to become inflamed and swollen.
4. Low-fiber diet
A diet lacking in fiber can result in hard and dry stools, requiring increased effort during bowel movements, which can lead to hemorrhoids.
5. Weakening of supporting tissues
With aging, the supporting tissues in the anus and rectum may weaken, making them more susceptible to hemorrhoids.
6. Pregnancy
Pregnant women often experience increased pressure on the rectal area due to the growing uterus, leading to hemorrhoids.
7. Heavy lifting
Frequently lifting heavy objects can put undue pressure on the abdominal area, which can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
Additional Factors and Seeking Medical Attention
Aside from the aforementioned causes, other factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, engaging in anal intercourse, and certain medical conditions affecting the digestive system can also contribute to hemorrhoids.
It is crucial to note that not all anal symptoms are indicative of hemorrhoids, and some may indicate other digestive tract issues. Seeking medical attention is vital if you experience any anal symptoms causing pain or discomfort.
Can Hemorrhoids Be Prevented
Taking proactive steps to prevent hemorrhoids is possible by implementing certain lifestyle changes. Consider the following preventive measures:
1. High-fiber diet
Incorporate foods rich in fiber into your daily meals, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps soften stools, easing bowel movements.
2. Ample fluid intake
Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day to maintain soft stools. Avoid alcohol as it can lead to dehydration.
3. Fiber supplements and stool softeners
If necessary, consider using fiber supplements or stool softeners to aid in keeping stools soft and preventing straining during bowel movements.
4. Healthy bowel habits
Avoid straining during bowel movements and promptly respond to the urge to have a bowel movement.
5. Regular exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity helps regulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive health.
6. Avoid prolonged sitting
Long periods of sitting can increase pressure on the rectal area. Take breaks and incorporate movement throughout the day.
7. Abdominal pressure avoidance
Refrain from heavy lifting and activities that put excessive strain on the abdominal area to minimize the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
8. Hygiene practices
Maintaining good hygiene by keeping the anal area clean and dry is essential for preventing infection and minimizing discomfort.
By adopting these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids. If you experience anal symptoms causing pain or discomfort, seeking professional medical advice is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
