Living With Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a condition in which veins located within lower regions of the rectum, or around the anus become inflamed and swollen and cause itching and burning. Hemorrhoids take two forms, external or internal, although both occasionally occur at the same time for some unfortunate hemorrhoid sufferers.
Hemorrhoid tissue is caused by excessive pressure on the delicate anal and rectal veins and often this pressure is caused by straining during bowel movements due to constipation. Because it is such a common problem, hemorrhoids occur all too often in many people. Frequent diarrhea can be a culprit in the appearance of hemorrhoids as well as frequent constipation. Hence, diets, which are lacking in the fiber found in fruits, nuts, vegetables and whole grains, are likely to contribute to a problem with hemorrhoids. Other common denominators are an insufficient intake of fluid, and a lack of exercise. Jobs that keep people seated for extended amounts of time are also guilty of adding to the likelihood of hemorrhoids. The increased blood volume associated with pregnancy, and the strain place on the veins during the pushing stage of labor and delivery make hemorrhoids a recurrent problem in women of childbearing age. Overweight people who live sedentary lives are also appreciably at risk.
One or more of the following issues often indicate the presence of hemorrhoids; anal itchiness, anal pain, a burning sensation when moving bowels, signs of fresh blood that occur with bowel movements, and irregular lumps or protrusions around the anal area. Hemorrhoids can usually be diagnosed by a family physician during a routine physical examination.
There is no denying that having hemorrhoids is not fun, but fortunately, they seldom pose a serious problem to health. On rare occasions, they can become severe enough to cause extreme pain or considerable bleeding. Any rectal bleeding should be brought to the attention of one’s physician, as there are more serious diseases for which that can be a symptom. Treating the first stages of hemorrhoids usually involves an over-the-counter cream, or the use of medicated pads. These treatments are only used to temporarily reduce the symptoms and should not be considered for long-term use. Some helpful home remedies include sitz baths, wiping the irritated area with cotton soaked in witch hazel, or using stool softeners to ease any constipation. Stubborn cases that fail to respond to simple home remedies can indicate that surgery should be considered, though surgical intervention is usually a last resort. Hemorrhoidectomy, and stapling to block blood flow to the inflamed tissue are invasive procedures that are used only when other remedies have failed. A chemical injection may be considered to shrink swelling tissue, and rubber band ligation, or laser light/heat may be used in the treatment of hemorrhoids.
A change of lifestyle is often just what the doctor orders to obtain and maintain a hemorrhoid free existence. High fiber diets, rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables (or taking a fiber supplementary fiber source) help keep the digestive system healthy. Adequate intake of fluid (at least 8 glasses of water daily) is vital, and plenty of exercise also helps to keep the body healthy and the digestive tract regular, preventing the reoccurrence of constipation.
Modification of one’s lifestyle is often prescribed to attain and then maintain a life free of hemorrhoids. A sufficient fluid intake (drinking a minimum of 64 ounces of water every day) is crucial to maintaining a healthy digestive tract. Exercise also keeps the body healthy and bowel movements more regular, which in turn prevents the reoccurrence of constipation, and thus the reoccurrence of hemorrhoids. A revision of diet to include foods fiber rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables (or the addition of a fiber supplement if needed) will also help retain a healthy digestive system. Hemorrhoids are uncomfortable, and while they may not be a major health concern, they are certainly an undesirable one but hemorrhoids are both avoidable and treatable.
As with any medical condition, be sure to see a doctor before you start any hemroid treatment option. For more information about coping with hemroids, visit Hemroid Treatment
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