What exactly are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids (or piles as they are sometimes known) are a condition where veins around the anus become inflamed and swollen. Internal hemorrhoids describe swollen veins inside the anus. External hemorrhoids describe swollen veins that are just under the skin around the anus. An internal hemorrhoid may protrude through the anus, where it becomes painful and irritated. This is called a protruding hemorrhoid. Hemorrhoids are not usually dangerous or life threatening....just extremely annoying, embarrassing and painful!

How are they caused?

Hemorrhoids can be caused in a number of different ways. Straining on the toilet, being pregnant, constipation and unfortunately aging make them all the more likely. Hemorrhoids are common in both men and women. About half of the population has hemorrhoids by age 50. Pregnant women are also more susceptible to hemorrhoids due to the increased volume of blood and the baby squashing veins in the abdomen. Hormonal changes also cause the blood vessels to get larger. The veins are also placed under a huge strain during the birthing process. For most women, however, hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy are a temporary problem, thank goodness, and usually clear up shortly after the baby is born...mine disappeared like magic!

What are the symptoms?

Many people have hemorrhoids, but not everyone has symptoms. The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood on the stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet itself. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids can include painful swelling or a hard lump around the anus. This is because of blood clots forming. Excessive straining and wiping around the anus may cause soreness with bleeding and itching, which leads to a vicious cycle of symptoms.

How do I get rid of them?

Treatment of hemorrhoids begins with relieving the symptoms. Things you can do to reduce symptoms include

• taking a bath several times a day in warm water for about 10 minutes
• applying a hemorrhoidal cream or inserting a hemorrhoidal suppository
• taking a hemorrhoid remedy such as Venapro
• drinking chamomile tea has been reported as helpful by some people
• wearing cotton underwear can make you feel more comfortable
• an ice-pack can help to reduce the swelling

In rare cases, hemorrhoids need to be treated surgically. Methods are used which shrink and destroy the hemorrhoid. The doctor will usually perform the procedure during an office or hospital visit. A number of methods may be used to remove or reduce the size of internal hemorrhoids. These techniques include

• Rubber band ligation. A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid whilst it's inside the rectum. The elastic band cuts off the circulation, and the hemorrhoid withers away to nothing within a few days.
• Sclerotherapy. A chemical is injected around the blood vessel which shrinks the hemorrhoid.
• Infrared coagulation. A special device is used to burn the hemorrhoidal tissue.
• Hemorrhoidectomy. Occasionally, extensive or severe internal or external hemorrhoids may require removal by surgery known as hemorrhoidectomy. This is very rare.

Can I avoid them?

There are a number of methods you can use to avoid hemorrhoids:

• Make sure stools are soft so you can pass them easily. You can do this by increasing fluid, between 6 and 8 glasses (not alcohol!) a day in your diet.
• Emptying your bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs will help to relieve pressure and straining.
• Exercise, including walking
• Making sure you have increased fiber intake in your diet as this helps by reducing constipation.
• Try a stool softener or a fiber supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel).

Good sources of fiber are vegetables, fruit and whole grains.