Monday, September 13, 2010

THE HEMORRHOID DILEMMA


Hemorrhoids or piles are ugly faces of an ailment. The condition of varicosity or swelling and inflammation of veins in the rectum and anus is known as hemorrhoids. It is also known as ‘haemorrhoids’ or piles.

The two most common types of hemorrhoids are external hemorrhoids and internal hemorrhoids.

External hemorrhoids: External hemorrhoids occur outside at the lateral end of the anal canal, on the anal verge. They are sometimes painful, and can be accompanied by swelling and irritation. Itching, due to skin irritation, is considered a common symptom of external hemorrhoids. The hemorrhoid becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid if the vein ruptures and a blood clot develops.

Internal hemorrhoids: Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum. They are usually not painful, and most people aren’t aware that they have them. Internal hemorrhoids may bleed when irritated. If not treated, internal hemorrhoids may lead to the more severe forms of hemorrhoids - prolapsed hemorrhoids and strangulated hemorrhoids.

• Prolapsed hemorrhoids: Internal hemorrhoids become so expanded or swollen that they get pushed outside of the anus.

• Strangulated hemorrhoid: The anal sphincter muscle spasms and traps a prolapsed hemorrhoid outside of the anal opening. The supply of blood is cut off, and the hemorrhoid then becomes a strangulated hemorrhoid.

Causes of Hemorrhoids or Piles:

The major cause of hemorrhoids results from weak rectal vein walls and/or valves. The following are some other hemorrhoids causes:

• Constipation

• Chronic diarrhea

• Straining during bowel movements

• Postponing bowel movements

• Poor bathroom habits; sitting for unusually long periods of time, e.g. reading on the toilet or excessive cleaning attempts.

• Pregnancy

• Fiber-deprived diet can also contribute.


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