Hemorrhoids: A common health problem
One of the most troublesome problems for anyone to experience is inflamed hemorrhoids. What many people don’t realize is that hemorrhoids are very normal. In the true sense of the word, hemorrhoids are clumps or cushions of blood vessels and fibrous tissues that are located within the last four centimeters of the rectal cavity. Their job is to act as a cushion to help stool pass through the last part of the body. They are present in all human bodies and typically do their job without our knowledge.The word has become so misused that to most people think that hemorrhoids are abnormal. Also called piles, they only become a problem when they are swollen or inflamed. There are two types of hemorrhoids, external and internal. The difference, obviously, is indicated by rather or not they are above or below the dentate line. A medical term, the dentate line is a marker between the first 2/3 of the anal canal and the last 1/3. When a hemorrhoid is located above the dentate line, it is considered internal and below the line, it is an external hemorrhoid.
External and internal hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are not necessary able to be seen. They are in the lower part of the anal canal and they are veins that become enlarged and swollen, much like varicose veins. They typically itch, burn and sometimes bleed upon excretion. They may be painful and result in mucous discharge or incontinence. While these types of hemorrhoids are a nuisance, they will sometimes clear up by themselves within a few days.
Internal hemorrhoids are those above the dentate line and they are much harder to detect. These types of hemorrhoids are in an area of the body where there are little pain receptors. Therefore, internal hemorrhoids do not usually cause pain and most people aren’t aware that they are present at all.
Causes of hemorrhoids
Since we now know that everyone has hemorrhoids, why do some people develop painful hemorrhoids? There are actually many factors that can lead to this problem. Some of the more common factors include a low-fiber diet, constipation, diarrhea, straining when going to the bathroom, genetics and pregnancy. It has also been proven that consistent pressure on the rectal vein can cause pain hemorrhoids to develop. This could be the result of sitting for long periods of time or being extremely overweight.Treatment for hemorrhoids
Thankfully, there are ways to both prevent and treat hemorrhoids. Many people want to find a natural treatment for hemorrhoids and that is very possible. Keeping stools soft and emptying the bowels as soon as one feels the urge will help prevent hemorrhoids. A diet high in fiber, exercise, and resisting the urge to strain to produce a stool are other ways to both prevent and treat hemorrhoids.While they are painful, hemorrhoids are rarely life-threatening. Rather, they are an indication of a larger problem that is usually solvable. Learn all you can so you can prevent and treat hemorrhoids and relieve yourself of the pain and irritation that they produce.