What Are Causes and Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons reported that millions of Americans suffer with hemorrhoids in which external hemorrhoids are the most common and the most troublesome.
Although hemorrhoids are treatable, these conditions can cause pain, difficulty sitting, and severe itching.The older you are the more likely you are to suffer from hemorrhoids; however, it doesn’t mean that young people and children do not get these problems.
Signs and Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of hemorrhoid usually depend on the location. For example, internal hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum. That’s why internal hemorrhoids usually don't cause discomfort, and you usually can't see or feel these hemorrhoids.
However, straining or irritation when passing stool can damage a hemorrhoid's delicate surface and cause it to bleed. Infrequently, straining can push an internal hemorrhoid through the anal opening. Commonly, it is known as a protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoid and can cause pain and irritation.
Another type of hemorrhoid, external hemorrhoids, is under the skin around your anus. These hemorrhoids, when irritated, can itch or bleed. Blood sometimes may pool in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot, resulting in severe pain, inflammation, and swelling.
There are many common signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids that may occur, including:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements
- Swelling around your anus
- Itching or irritation in your anal region
- Pain or discomfort
- Leakage of feces
- A lump near your anus that may be sensitive or painful
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid swelling occurs when there is an increase in the pressure in the small vessels that make up the hemorrhoid causing them to swell and engorge with blood. It causes them to increase in size leading to symptoms.
There are many exact cause of hemorrhoids, but probably several mechanisms are at work. Generally, hemorrhoids are associated with chronic constipation, prolonged sitting on the toilet, and straining during bowel movements — all of which interfere with blood flow to and from the area, thus causing it to pool and enlarge the vessels. It also explains why hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy when the enlarging uterus presses on the veins.
In addition to many factors above, some references explain that increased pressure may be caused by a variety of factors including:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Anal intercourse
- Low-fiber diet
When should I see a professional help?
Hemorrhoids can be treated with or without professional help; however, if your hemorrhoids do not improve significantly, even after using home remedies, see a doctor to get help.
Article sources: mayoclinic.org, hardvard.edu, medicinet.com, and medline plus.
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