The term Hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus are swollen or inflamed. Excessive pressure on the veins causes them to swell and stretch. The most common symptom of hemorrhoids is the appearance of blood on toilet paper or on the stool. An internal hemorrhoid may also protrude through the anus, externally, becoming irritated and painful. Painful swelling or hard lumps around the anus can occur, as a result of blood clots. Excessive straining, rubbing or cleaning of the anus can cause irritation, with bleeding and itching, which can aggravate the other symptoms. About 50% of people have had hemorrhoids in their lifetime. It is also quite common during pregnancy.
Medical diagnoses is necessary, as bleeding from the anus could also be a symptom of more serious diseases e.g. colon
cancer. Hemorrhoids can be treated by changing your
diet and bowel habits. The best way to avoid hemorrhoids is to keep stools soft, which will decrease pressure or strain. A high fiber
diet, drinking lots of water and moderate excursive will promote regular bowel movements. Avoid laxatives, as they irritate hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be treated with special baths, hemorroidal creams and suppositories.
Other Non surgical procedures, called fixative procedures (rubber bands or chemical injections), reduce blood supply to the hemorrhoid, so it shrinks or withers away. Heat, laser or electric current are then used to create scar tissue, which will support the anal tissue and prevents more hemorrhoids from developing. Fixative procedures are usually tried before surgery.
Hemorrhoids require surgery, if they are extremely large and painful, if there are several small hemorrhoids, or when other treatments have not controlled the bleeding. Surgery may have better long term results, but is more expensive, requires longer recovery time, is more painful and may have complications. Surgery is not normally done on people who are in poor health or over 70.