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Hemorrhoids – Causes and Treatment

Hemorrhoids are swollen but normally present blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum that stretch under pressure, similar to varicose veins in the legs. The increased pressure and swelling may result from straining to move the bowel. Other contributing factors include pregnancy, heredity, aging, and chronic constipation or diarrhea. Hemorrhoids are either inside the anus (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external).

Hemorrhoids are normal anatomic features of the human anal canal, forming pads that bulge into the lumen. The anorectal area has a mucosal lining, a framework composed of blood vessels, smooth muscle and supporting tissues, as well as an anchoring connective tissue system that secures the hemorrhoidal tissues to the internal sphincters. This hemorrhoidal system is reported to cushion the anal canal during defecation

Causes

Hemorrhoids are associated with constipation and straining at bowel movements as well as pregnancy. It is thought that these conditions lead to increased pressure in the hemorrhoid veins, thus causing them to swell. Liver disease can also cause increased pressure in the veins and also cause hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are very common and have been estimated to occur in up to half the population by age 50 years.

Internal hemorrhoids occur when our internal veins become swollen. Unless the condition is severe, internal hemorrhoids cannot be seen or felt. External hemorrhoids occur when our external veins and blood vessels around the anus swell-up. External hemorrhoids can be seen around the outside of the anus and unlike internal hemorrhoids - they are sensitive and cause discomfort.

The Facts on Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, also called "'piles," are swollen tissues that contain veins and that are located in the wall of the rectum and anus. They may cause minor bleeding or develop small blood clots. Hemorrhoids occur when the tissues enlarge, weaken, and come free of their supporting structure. This results in a sac-like bulge that extends into the anal area.

Prevention of the recurrence of hemorrhoids is aimed at changing conditions associated with the pressure and straining of constipation. Doctors will often recommend increasing fiber and fluids in the diet. Eating the right amount of fiber and drinking six to eight glasses of fluid (not alcohol) result in softer, bulkier stools. A softer stool makes emptying the bowels easier and lessens the pressure on hemorrhoids caused by straining. Eliminating straining also helps prevent the hemorrhoids from protruding.

Rubber band ligation is the most effective nonoperative (without incision or excision) treatment for internal hemorrhoids that don't respond to self-care. Sometimes referred to as "banding," rubber band ligation is a relatively simple procedure in which the doctor attaches tiny rubber bands to the base of internal hemorrhoids.

Plenty of fluids in your daily diet will assist in proper digestion and prevent the hardening of stool. Lifting heavy items or sitting for prolonged periods in one place may create pressure on rectal veins and tissues and result in their damage. Take a break at regular intervals if your job requires prolonged sitting. If you are reading or working on a computer for longer periods of time, you should keep changing your sitting posture every now and then.

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