Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids (or Piles) are an abnormal swelling in the blood vessels in the anal canal. Although they may bleed, itch or cause pain, hemorrhoids are usually not a sign of anything more serious and one can often treat the symptoms at home. One can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids by making a few healthy lifestyle changes.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids - These usually remain along the anal wall. You usually can't feel or see them, unless they break through the anus. This is known as a protruded or prolapsed hemorrhoid. Symptoms may include pain, bleeding, itching and a feeling of fullness after a bowel movement
External hemorrhoids - These are small soft pads around the anal opening, the same color as your skin. When an external hemorrhoid forms a blood clot (thrombus), it can appear blue in color and cause severe pain, itching and inflammation.
Causes,Treatment and Prevention
One of the most common causes of hemorrhoids is straining to pass hard, dry stools during bouts of constipation. Other factors that can lead to hemorrhoids include:
- Straining to lift heavy objects
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Sitting for long periods
- Diarrhea
When to See a Doctor
Generally, hemorrhoids are not serious and symptoms go away in a few days. However sometimes hemorrhoids may signal a more serious problem. See your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Rectal bleeding. Although this is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding could be a symptom of a more serious disease.
- Persistent pain. In some cases, hemorrhoids must be removed surgically. Your doctor will perform an exam and decide on the best course of treatment.
Treatment
Treating hemorrhoids may require nothing more than home treatment and lifestyle changes. For instant relief of pain, itching and swelling, try the following:
- Apply a hemorrhoidal cream or suppository to the affected area as directed.
- Use ice packs, which can reduce swelling.
- Soak in a warm bath or "sitz" bath (sitting in three inches of water) for 10 minutes a few times a day.
Talk with your doctor about your hemorrhoids during your next visit. To encourage better bowel movements, your doctor may suggest some initial lifestyle changes, such as increasing your fiber and fluid intake and exercise.
If these changes do not help; your doctor may suggest one of the following types of treatments:
- A fiber laxative.
- A stool softener.
Fiber laxative and stool softners should be used only as directed. Different treatments work in different ways : let your doctor choose the best one for you.
Prevention
Take the following steps to reduce your risk of hemorroids:
- Eat more fiber and drink plenty of fluids. This will help soften stools and promote regular elimination, which reduces straining.
- Go when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement. Delaying now can mean straining later.
- Don't read on the toilet. Sitting and straining too long encourages swelling.
- Wipe gently with soft, white unperfumed tissue. This helps keep the area clean to avoid irritation.
- Exercise regularly; which aids digestion and improves circulation.
Symptoms
- Anal or rectal pain and itching.
- Bright red blood on toilet tissue or in toilet bowl.
- Appearance of anal tissue pads.
Treatment
- Warm bath.
- Ice packs.
- Over-the-counter medicine.
- Medical procedures.
Prevention
- Good bowel habits.
- High-fiber diet.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Regular exercise.
Fiber What You Should Know
Fiber is the part of a plant that can't be digested. It adds bulk to keep other foods moving through the digestive system and it holds water which, in turn, softens the stool for easy elimination.
Fiber comes in two different types, both of which are needed for proper bowel function:
1. Soluble fiber forms a gel-like material in water. It helps restore regularity and soften stools. Good sources include oats, beans, peas, many types of fruit and products containing psyllium.
2. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and moves through your digestive system quickly and largely intact. It helps keep you regular by bulking up the stool. Good sources include wheat bran, whole-grain cereals and breads and many types of vegetables.
Easy ways to increase fiber
Adding fiber to your diet may be easier than you think. Here are some tips that can help you get started:
- Substitute high-fiber foods (wholegrain bread, brown rice, fruits and vegetables) for low-fiber foods (white bread, white rice, candy and chips).
- Try to eat more raw vegetables and fresh fruit, including the skins, when appropriate. Cooking vegetables can reduce their fiber content, and skins are a good source of fiber.
- Eat high-fiber foods at every meal. Bran cereal for breakfast is a good start, but try to include some fruits, vegetables, whole-grains and beans in your diet as well.
Two notes of caution. be sure to increase your fiber intake gradually, giving your body time to adjust; and drink at least six to eight ounce glasses of fluids a day.
Questions about Fiber
Q: HOW MUCH FIBER DO I NEED EACH DAY?
A: Nutrition experts suggest 20 to 35 grams. The average American consumes only 10 to 15 grams.
Q: WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO INCREASE MY FIBER lNTAKE?
A: Eat a variety of high-fiber foods throughout the day, replace foods low in fiber content with foods containing higher amounts of fiber and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Q: AT WHAT RATE SHOULD I ADD FIBER TO MY DIET?
A: Gradually. Too much too soon can cause a bloated feeling and abdominal cramps. It may take several weeks to add the recommended amount of dietary fiber to your diet While you're working on it, be sure to drink plenty of fluids.