Hemorrhoid FAQs

Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable condition that will affect most people at least once in their lives. For some people, hemorrhoids are a frequent, painful problem. Learn what hemorrhoids are, what causes them and what you can do about them.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and rectum. They can be described as cushions of tissue filled with blood vessels. Hemorrhoids can occur on both the inside and outside of the body. External hemorrhoids are typically located on the part of the body where the anus meets the rectum and are often quite painful. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur inside the rectum. Because the rectal area lacks pain receptors, many people suffering from internal hemorrhoids may not be aware of the problem until symptoms like rectal bleeding occur.

What Are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?

Common symptoms associated with hemorrhoids include burning, itching, rectal bleeding and the formation of small lumps around the anus. Rectal bleeding may be an indication that you're suffering from internal hemorrhoids, even if no other symptoms are exhibited. Left untreated, hemorrhoidal symptoms may last a week or more.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are can be caused by a number of factors including excessive sitting, severe straining during bowel movements, hypertension, obesity and pregnancy. Anything that increases rectal vein pressure can contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids.

What Treatments Are Available for Hemorrhoids?

There are a number of treatments available for hemorrhoids, ranging from simple over-the-counter treatments to more invasive treatments that must be performed by a doctor. Available treatments include soaking in a sitz bath or warm tub, over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream, rubber band ligation, injection therapy, cryosurgery, laser surgery or electrical current therapy.

Can I Prevent Hemorrhoids?

There are measures that you can take to reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids. These preventative measures include washing the anus daily with mild soap and cool water, wearing loose-fitting clothing that does not irritate the anus area, drinking more fluids, exercising to improve anus muscle tone, and eating at least 25 g of dietary fiber each day. Additionally, a 1987 study published by Dr. Berko Sikirov found that people who used the squatting position for bowel movements, or converted to squat toilets, greatly reduced the occurrence of internal and external hemorrhoids.

How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?

Those suffering from frequent hemorrhoids are often able to determine a diagnosis of hemorrhoids based on symptoms. If you have never had a case of hemorrhoids diagnosed by a professional and are experiencing hemorrhoidal symptoms, it is advisable to see your doctor. The symptoms of hemorrhoids often mirror the symptoms of more serious illnesses such as anal melanoma, anal fistulae, abscesses, pruritus ani or anal fissures. Your doctor will examine you and ask questions about your lifestyle and medical history to help make his diagnosis. If your doctor is unable to make a certain diagnosis of hemorrhoids, he may use a procedure such as sigmoidoscopy, proctoscopy or anoscopy to see inside your rectum for visual confirmation of internal hemorrhoids.

References

• NIH.gov: Hemorrhoids

Resources

• WedMD: Hemorrhoids
• FamilyDoctor.org: Hemorrhoids