Hemorrhoids

What is it?

Hemorrhoids (hem-roids) are swollen veins in the rectum or anus (rear end). They are also called "piles." You may have inside or outside hemorrhoids. Inside hemorrhoids are found where the anal canal starts (rectum). Outside hemorrhoids are found around your anus. The anus is the hole where you have a BM. You may have hemorrhoids for years before you have problems.

Causes:

Too much pressure in the rectal or anal veins causes hemorrhoids. Following are some things that cause too much pressure in the veins of the rectum which causes hemorrhoids.

Having diarrhea.

Holding back a BM.

Illness, such as liver disease.

Pregnant and over-weight people tend to get hemorrhoids because of their added weight.

Standing or sitting in the same place for a long time.

Straining to have a BM.

Signs and Symptoms:

You may have swelling or feel a soft lump at your anus. Other signs may be pain or itching. You may have a thick clear fluid (mucous) coming from your anus after having a BM. Or you may feel that you need to have another BM. You may see bright-red blood on the toilet paper or on your BM. The toilet water may also be a red color from the blood.

Care:

Your caregiver may look into your anus or rectum using a short tube. Warm baths or ice packs may help ease the pain. Hemorrhoid over-the-counter medicine may be helpful for the pain, itching, or swelling. A laxative medicine may help push out your BMs. Drink 6 to 8 (soda pop can size) glasses of water each day. Eat high fiber foods such as vegetables, grains, or cereals to soften your BMs. You may need surgery to remove your hemorrhoids.

Do's and Don'ts:

Try not to push too hard while having a BM. Exercise often and lose weight if you weigh too much. Try not to sit in one place for a long time, especially if you are sitting on a hard chair. Get up and move around a few minutes each hour while you are sitting.