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Hemorrhoids: The Basics Behind the Problem
Many people will encounter hemorrhoids at one time or another during life. But how much do we really know about this disorder? As you might imagine, this is not a topic that comes up in the course of normal conversation, but, still, the more we know about this ailment the better we can treat it.
In very simple terms, this condition is associated with swollen, inflamed veins in the anus and rectum. They can run from mildly annoying to excruciatingly painful depending on the severity of the problem. There can be many causes for them, including straining too hard during bowel movements to increased pressure on the veins while pregnant. In some cases, they may be more hereditary in nature. Regardless of the cause, this is a common problem and many people will develop hemorrhoids sometime during their life.
A good starting place is to learn the types. There are basically two broad types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
You cannot see or feel the internal type. What you will notice is bleeding, especially when passing stool. This bleeding is caused by damage to the very delicate tissue of the hemorrhoid. Normally, people will notice small to moderate amounts of blood on the tissue paper when they have finished. It is important to remember that the internal type may not actually hurt. This is because this internal area of the body has very few pain-generating nerves. It is also to important to keep in mind that this reduction in pain sensation can cause further problems should the individual continue to strain forcefully during bowel movements. Forceful straining can cause the internal tissue to actually be pushed outward through the anal opening.
The second type of hemorrhoid is the external type.
This type is almost always painful to some degree. It is possible for blood to pool within the external type thus causing the formation of a blood clot or a thrombus. When this happens, the person will usually experience severe pain, increased swelling, and burning inflammation. It is common for the area to itch or bleed throughout the day and night.
As mentioned above, this condition can develop from increased pressure in the veins in the lower rectum. Some of the more recognized sources of this pressure include such things as constipation which often leads to increased straining. Diarrhea can also be a casual factor. It is interesting to note that sitting for long periods of time can also bring about symptoms. Pregnancy and childbirth are often associated with the presence of hemorrhoids.
As a rule, you should consult with your doctor if you notice rectal bleeding. This is a major sign of this ailment but there can be other reasons for rectal bleeding too, and your doctor should make sure that you are not suffering from something other than this problem. Some of these other conditions can be very serious such as intestinal cancer or bleeding within the gastrointestinal tract.
If you should notice that you are passing black, tarry stools you should visit with your doctor immediately as this may indicate internal bleeding. This is true whether you have hemorrhoids or not.
Once your doctor has determined that you have hemorrhoids, there are treatments available to help reduce the inflammation as well as the itch and pain.
There are, of course, over the counter treatments, but there are also natural, organic treatments that work very well and do not contain chemicals.
For the treatment of the external type, you should look for an all natural topical product, but do this only after consultation with your doctor. He or she may have a better option for you.
You must keep this area as clean as possible but do not use harsh, chemically laden soaps.
The vast majority of commercially produced soap will contain chemicals that will almost certainly irritate this area and may even make the symptoms worse. The far better option is to use natural soaps that do not contain harsh, irritating ingredients.
A very easy and simple practice is to apply cold compresses or ice packs to the area. This can help reduce swelling and will also bring some pain relief.
Soaking regularly in a warm bath will also help to reduce inflammation and pain. If possible, you should do this several times a day. Do make sure, however, that you dry the area as completely as possible when you get out.
Again, whenever possible use natural products for your self-care treatments but do this only with your doctor's approval.
The content presented here on this website is for informational purposes only. These products have not been approved by the FDA and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
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