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Hemorrhoids Causes and Risks:
Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins of the anus. The most common cause is straining at bowel movements. Constipation , prolonged sitting, and anal infection are contributing factors. Internal hemorrhoids occur near the beginning of the anal canal, and external hemorrhoids occur at the anal opening. Hemorrhoids also sometimes protrude outside the anus. They are very common, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. The incidence is 2 out of 1000 people.
Prevention:
Avoiding contributing factors and eating a high fiber diet may help to prevent the development of hemorrhoids.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
Rectal examination may be sufficient to diagnose hemorrhoids.
Tests that reveal hemorrhoids include:
Treatment:
Mild cases are controlled by drinking fluids, high-fiber diet, and regular toilet habits. Corticosteroid creams (see corticosteroids - topical) help reduce pain and swelling . Procedural treatments consist of rubber band
ligation, cryosurgery , or hemorrhoidectomy .
Prognosis:
Most treatments are effective, but recurrences can happen if measures are not taken to adopt a high-fiber diet with adequate fluids.
Complications:
Iron deficiency anemia can result from prolonged loss of blood.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve with home treatment.
This illustration shows the major organs of the digestive system. Their relative sizes and positioning in the body are also demonstrated.
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