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Hemorrhoids Treatment
What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen but normally present blood vessels in and
around the anus and lower rectum that stretch under pressure. Hemorrhoids
are very similar to varicose veins in the legs. The increased pressure
and swelling may result from straining to move the bowel. Factors
contributing to hemorrhoids are: pregnancy, heredity, aging, and
chronic constipation or diarrhea.
Hemorrhoids may occur inside the anus (internal)
or under the skin around the anus (external). An internal hemorrhoid
may protrude through the anus outside the body. This is called a
protruding hemorrhoid.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
There are many symptoms and everyone with hemorrhoids will not experience
all of the symptoms. Some of the symptoms are: bright red blood
covering the stool, painful swelling around the anus, a hard lump
around the anus, fissures, fistulae, abscesses, or irritation and
itching (pruritus ani). Excessive straining, rubbing or cleaning
the anus may worsen symptoms.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are caused by too much pressure in the rectum, forcing
blood to stretch and bulge the walls of the veins. Sometimes the
pressure ruptures the veins.
Are Hemorrhoids Dangerous?
No. Hemorrhoids usually are not dangerous or life threatening. In
most cases, the symptoms of hemorrhoids will only last a few days.
Not every one with hemorrhoids will experience symptoms.
Are Hemorrhoids Common?
Yes. Hemorrhoids affect both men and women. About half of the population
will have hemorrhoids by age 50. Hemorrhoids are also common among
pregnant women. Hemorrhoids are common among pregnant women because
the pressure of the fetus in the abdomen, as well as hormonal changes
that occur during pregnancy, cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to enlarge.
These vessels are also placed under severe pressure during childbirth.
For most women, hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy are a temporary
problem and given the right care will go away.
How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?
Hemorrhoids are diagnosed by a doctor. The doctor will examine the
anus, and rectum and look for swollen blood vessels. A digital rectal
exam will also be performed. The doctor may also examine the patient
with an anoscope, or a proctoscope. An anoscope is a lighted tube
useful for viewing internal hemorrhoids. A proctoscope, is used
to examine the entire rectum.
Can Hemorrhoids be Treated?
Yes
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