Definition
Hemorrhoids are veins in the anal region that are swollen, they can be located in the anal canal or right at the anal opening.
Risk Factors
Anything that increases the blood pressure in the anal veins or puts stress on the anal veins is a potential risk factor for developing hemorrhoids. The most common risk factors are:
Constipation. This is the leading risk factor for developing hemorrhoids. Minor constipation creates the need to push or strain while removing waste from the body, this causes a sudden increase in blood pressure in the anal veins. Done frequently, this activity can slowly weaken and damage the veins.
Chronic Diarrhea. Just like chronic constipation, this puts increased stress on the anal veins.
Pregnancy. Pregnant women definitely face an above average risk of developing hemorrhoids due to the fact that many pregnant women experience stomach problems such as constipation and diarrhea, two potential risk factors. Pregnant women are also carrying extra weight which is a potential risk factor, plus a vaginal birth also puts stress on the anal veins.
- High Blood Pressure.
- Extended sitting.
- Obesity.
- Digestive Diseases such as Crohn’s Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
- Liver Disease.
- Anal Sex.
- Anal Surgery.
- Anal Infections.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids:
Due to the fact the there are no pain receptors in the upper 2/3rds of the anal canal, hemorrhoids located in this area may only have bleeding as a symptom, while hemorrhoids located externally or in the lower 1/3rd of the anal canal will typically be much more painful.
Typical symptoms include:
- Discomfort
- Pain
- Burning
- Itching
- Bleeding
- A small bulge or swelling at the anal opening
Test for Hemorrhoids
Symptoms such as bleeding, anal discomfort or pain always require a colon exam in order to rule out colon cancer, which can have seemingly minor symptoms, similar to those presented by hemorrhoids. Fortunately, caught early enough, colon cancer is very treatable, but early diagnosis is essential.
Home Treatments
- Eat a high fiber diet. This is the single best hemroid treatment and preventative measure.
- Use a stool softener. These should only be used on a short term basis, but can help reduce irritation.
- Non-prescription creams such as Preparation H.
- Tuck’s Pads which contain witch hazel, a soothing astringent.
- Don’t sit for long periods of time without taking short breaks.
- Ice packs applied several times a day.
- Soaking in a warm tub 2-3 times a day.
Surgical Treatments
- Rubber band ligation.
- Laser surgery.
- Doppler guided hemroid arterial ligation (DG-HAL).
- Stapled hemorrhoidectomy.
- Hemorrhoidectomy.
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