Sunday, July 12, 2009

What Are Hemorrhoids?

By Heather-Jane Hunter

There are over 11 million people in the US and 240 million in the world today suffering from hemorrhoids. Many wake up to this extreme pain in there rectal area and simply wonder what can hurt so badly? They soon find out just what are hemorrhoids. The medical definition is pads of tissue in and around the anal area. There also known as swollen veins in the anal canal. Veins can also swell inside the anal canal; this is known as internal hemorrhoids. Some people have had both forms of hemorrhoids at the same time.

Hemorrhoids are relatively common with over 11 million people in the United States suffering from the discomfort of hemorrhoids. Worldwide there are approximately 240 million suffering from hemorrhoids. Overall, approximately 90% of the population will experience either internal or external hemorrhoids at some point in their life.

Only after they start causing pain and discomfort people tend to want to know what are hemorrhoids. But by this time it's too late. They only become a problem when there swollen or inflamed. They can last for years and will get worst over time if not dealt with right a way. Hemorrhoids will affect at least 90% off people once in there lifetime, so the chances of you becoming affected are likely. Knowing what to do to treat and prevent them from becoming swollen or inflamed will determine just how bad they will affect you.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Anyone with hemorrhoids needs to know what the symptoms are so they can best treat their affliction. Bleeding during bowel movements is a common symptom for both internal and external hemorrhoids. If they are internal, then there will be blood in the stool or in the water. If they are external, then it is likely that there will be blood in the stool and on the toilet paper after wiping. This is usually accompanied by itching, another common symptom of hemorrhoids. Rectal pain is also a symptom (especially after using the bathroom).

Another common symptom associated with hemorrhoids is itching internally or externally around the rectal area. Hemorrhoids, external in specific, are sensitive to touch and the itching and pain can become annoying and intense within a short amount of time. Knowing the symptoms and treatment for hemorrhoids is the key to alleviating either type of hemorrhoid pain.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Still to this day there is no one exact reason why hemorrhoids become a problem in so many lives today. Some tend to think it's because a lack of fiber in ones diet. By adding fiber to ones diet you can soften your stool and wont strain yourself when using the bathroom. Others believe it's caused by straining yourself when using the bathroom. Some even believe sitting for long periods of time will cause hemorrhoids to flare up. There really isn't just one known reason why they become inflamed and irritated.

In conclusion, learning about the symptoms and treatments available will increase awareness and minimize the stress often associated with having an unfamiliar pain and discomfort in the anal area.

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