Hemorrhoids often referred to as piles are swellings of the veins in the rectal area. If the swollen veins are inside the rectal cavity they are called internal hemorrhoids. If the affected veins are outside the rectal cavity they are called external hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are most commonly caused by coercion while defecating which put excess pressure on the veins in the rectal area; This is commonly due to constipation and / or pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are however exasperated by poor diet, caffeine in intake and alcohol consumption.
Common treatments for hemorrhoids include:
- Creams and ointments which are applied topically to external hemorrhoids and are applied to internal hemorrhoids by inserting a suppositories of hardened cream through the anus into the rectal cavity where the body temperature causes them to melt and flow around the hemorrhoids soothing and giving relief to the hemorrhoid sufferer.
- Hemorrhoid pills can be taken to regulate the pressure of blood in the affected area. Also there are various complementary medicine and Chinese medicine hemorrhoid pills available.
- Surgical removal of hemorrhoids is usually by one of three methods:
o Rubber band litigation where rubber bands are placed tightly around the base of the hemorrhoid cutting off the blood supply and killing the tissue.
o Laser coagulation where laser beams are used to destroy tissue and blood vessels to kill the hemorrhoid tissue.
o Surgical procedure where the hemorrhoids are surgically removed with scalpel cuts at their base. The wounds are stitched.
The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bleeding. Bright red fresh blood may appear on toilet tissue or on the surface of the stool. Internal hemorrhoids sometimes excrete mucus which acts on the anal tissue causing itching and mild irritation.
The most common symptom of external hemorrhoids is pain. They can be felt as lumps hanging from the surface of the anus which can swell up to grape size when enlarged. When inflamed they can be extremely painful. External hemorrhoids can also bleed and in extreme cases can soil underwear.
A huge factor in hemorrhoid control is dies. A diet rich in fiber (roughage) will go a long way to prevent the pain and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids. It is essential to eat fresh healthy meats and vegetables and limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Processed foods should be avoided.
Caffeine and alcohol cause mild to severe diarrhea which induces training in the large intestine. This training is similar to the hiring associated with constipation. It puts pressure on the veins in the rectal area and causes hemorrhoids to enlarge and become inflamed. If internal hemorrhoids are forced outside the anal cavity they can become disturbed by the anal muscle and this can lead to severe pain which may necessitate consulting a physician.
