Hemorrhoids or piles are swollen veins in the lower region of the rectum and the anus caused by too much pressure on the area. 50% of the population will likely to experience one or more of the common symptoms of hemorrhoids the moment they reached the age 50.
Hemorrhoid is classified into two. It could either be internal which lies inside the anus or external which occurs under the skin of the anus and sometimes protrude as lumps in the rectal canal. Symptoms of the external type include rectal pain, mild irritation, discomfort and itching. External piles cause a lot of discomfort because the overlying skin becomes easily irritated.
Internal hemorrhoid is harder to diagnose and is typically painless because the anus contains very limited pain-sensing nerves which is responsible for sending pain signals to the brain. In some, cases internal hemorrhoid may show symptoms such as discharge of anal mucus which is a white or yellow jelly-like substance that is visible in the stool.
Internal hemorrhoid can also protrude beyond the anus causing several problems. Small amount of mucus and particles of stool are collected and will build up in the anal area. This will lead to persistent itching around this area is called pruritus ani. The itch is almost unbearable that the patient develops a compelling urge to scratch. Scratching and wiping frequently to relieve the itch causes more damage. However, pruritus ani may also be caused by other factors such as excessive moisture and allergic reactions to specific foods or substances.
Rectal bleeding is also a symptom of internal hemorrhoids. However, blood in the stool can also be caused by other serious health condition like colon polyp. A polyp is a growth that occurs in the lining of the colon or large intestine. It can make the stool look black or carry red streaks.
Hemorrhoid and anal fissures have few similar causes but they differ in texture and appearance. Anal fissure is a painful health problem characterized by unnatural crack or tear in the anus which often extends from the anal opening. It is caused by an injury brought about by overly stretching the mucus tissues like what happens when a person is constipated. Anal fissure however does not have that lumpy feel of a hemorrhoid.
Another health problem that shares similar symptoms with piles is anal abscess. This is a condition in which the cavity near the anus is filled with pus or yellowish fluid. The symptoms include swelling, redness, pus discharge and throbbing pain. Unlike piles that are mainly caused by stressed blood vessels, anal abscess is caused by sexually transmitted infections and other infections of the anal glands.
The problem may be caused by several factors. Intestinal problems such as severe constipation and chronic diarrhea are one of the major causes of piles. Straining because of a difficult bowel movement suppresses normal blood flow and triggers the enlargement of the blood vessels in the anal area.
Pregnant women have higher risk of getting piles because of the pressure that the uterus places on the veins around the rectal area. HIV patients are also more prone to the condition because of the side effects of medications like infections in the gut and digestive problems. One of the symptoms of HIV is chronic diarrhea that usually lasts for more than a week which would cause damage to the veins along the rectum.
Some practices such as anal sex can also lead to piles.
Anal intercourse causes strain on the veins along the rectal area and triggers them to swell and develop into lumps.
The symptoms of colon cancer can also increase the risk of suffering from the problem. A tumor or cyst can hinder the normal flow of stool and would lead to constipation. Constipation will put strain to the veins around the anal area.
High stress level, anxiety and depression are main contributors to the development of piles. Stress and other negative emotional conditions restrict normal bodily functions including digestion which makes bowel movements very difficult.
Drinking too much alcohol would also increase the risk of getting this awful rectal condition. Alcohol dehydrates the body and eliminates the essential vitamins needed in the proper functions of the systems. Lack of fluid and inadequate vitamins in the body will result to severe constipation and cause the veins to be inflamed.
Another factor that leads to the condition is the use of drugs. Addictive drugs like cocaine cause gastrointestinal problems and severe damage to digestive tissues.
Cigarette smoking is not only detrimental to the proper function of the digestive system but to almost every organ of the body. Smokers have higher risk of developing Chron’s disease, a serious medical condition in which the lining of the small intestine is inflamed. It causes pain and diarrhea which will ultimately lead to pile.
Hemorrhoid is a common ailment that most people will likely to experience. A healthy lifestyle and proper diet is required to avoid suffering the itch and discomfort of this condition.
Your diet should be high in fiber to soften your stools and makes them pass easily. The recommended fiber intake ranges from 25-30 grams daily but an average American only consumes 15 g of dietary fiber per day. Eat more foods that contain high amounts of fiber such as broccoli, beans, spinach, wheat, whole grains and organic fruits. You should also refrain from eating spicy foods because it will trigger flare ups.
Other foods and drinks that you should not be eating if you have hemorrhoids are nuts, coffee, and other beverages with caffeine as they worsen the condition and would even cause excruciating pain. You can also take fiber supplements to reduce inflammation, swelling and rectal bleeding. It is very important to have adequate fluid to make digestion easier.
Include exercise in your daily activities. 20-30 minutes brisk walking and other moderate exercises can help stimulate your bowel function.
Do not hold your urge to defecate because this will force the stool to back up and will cause increased pressure and straining. Go to the bathroom immediately whenever you feel the urge and schedule a regular bowel habit.
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