Hemorrhoids Welcome to the Affordable Drugs hemorrhoids information page. When you are experiencing the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids all you want is hemorrhoid relief. One of the first steps in obtaining hemorrhoids help is to educate yourself about hemorrhoids. Here you can learn about external hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid treatments, hemorrhoid symptoms and more. You can also find some of the best prices available on hemorrhoid medications. The information contained on this page is not intended to replace the professional advice of your physician.
What Are Hemorrhoids? Everyone has heard of hemorrhoids and knows of the unpleasant reputation attached to them, but exactly what are hemorrhoids?
There are two types of hemorrhoids, internal and external, but in both cases, they are simply swollen veins in the anal canal. Internal hemorrhoids are formed inside the anal canal, while those at the opening of the anus are called external hemorrhoids. Both types are caused when too much pressure on rectal and pelvic veins cause them to swell.
Knowing the basics of the painful swellings is one thing, but what are the specific causes of hemorrhoids and how can they be prevented? Pregnancy often leads to hemorrhoids, especially during the later months. Increased pressure and weight on pelvic veins causes them to swell, and hemorrhoids are formed. The strain and pressure of labor also forms or worsens them. Similarly, the additional pressure of being overweight is a common cause. Diarrhea or constipation can help hemorrhoids to form as well. During normal bowel functions, anal tissues fill with blood and help direct waste as it moves out of the body. When these tissues and veins are put under extra pressure, such as those listed above, the swelling and stretching of the veins leads to hemorrhoids.
Some steps can be taken to prevent the formation of hemorrhoids. Promoting healthy bowel movements are the simplest course of action. This means eating well, including foods rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water every day, maintaining a regular exercise regimen, and going to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need to. These are also great tips for reducing the pain and symptoms of hemorrhoids that have already formed.
What are those symptoms and how are hemorrhoids treated? Rectal pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements are common symptoms of both hemorrhoidal types. External hemorrhoids can usually be treated at home. Besides embracing healthy changes to diet and exercise, a visit to the drug store can bring needed relief. Over the counter ointments reduce itching, and stool softeners can help to regulate bowel movements without the straining which will only inflame hemorrhoids. Even internal hemorrhoids usually respond to these treatments. If they do not and pain does not diminish, a visit to the doctor is likely necessary. In severe cases, the doctor can purposely scar tissue around the hemorrhoids or use rubber bands to tie them off. Both treatments limit blood flow to these veins, reducing swelling, and shrinking the hemorrhoids. If other treatments do not work, surgery can be performed to remove the hemorrhoids.
Knowing what hemorrhoids are and what what causes them is the best first step to treating them, or, better yet, preventing them altogether.
Hemorrhoids Symptoms Hemorrhoids symptoms can vary among the men and women who are afflicted with this condition, and can depend upon whether the hemorrhoids are external or internal.
External Hemorrhoids Symptoms
The most common hemorrhoids symptoms of these engorged, prolapsed vessels are pain and itching in and around the rectum, with occasional bleeding occurring after bowel movements. Individuals with external hemorrhoids may notice a small amount of blood streaking on the toilet paper after straining to have a bowel movement, or after passing a hard stool. In more severe cases, a clotted or thrombosed hemorrhoid may develop. This painful condition occurs when blood collects beneath the skin, forming a painful lump.
Internal Hemorrhoids Symptoms
Unlike external hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids are usually not associated with pain and discomfort. The most common symptom of these hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding, which occurs most commonly after a bowel movement. Bleeding can be especially noticeable after passing a hard stool, or after straining. Like external hemorrhoids, you may notice bloody streaks on your toilet paper, and you may also notice bright red blood on the stool surface and in the toilet after having a bowel movement.
Internal hemorrhoids may also cause less common symptoms, including a mucousy discharge and itching that can occur when this discharge irritates sensitive rectal or anal tissues. Some individuals may experience some level of discomfort as a result of internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids which extend into the anal canal can cause individuals to feel as though they need to have a bowel movement even when they do not need to, and this sensation often occurs after straining to have a bowel movement. This type of discomfort increases as the hemorrhoid becomes larger.
Although pain is uncommon among internal hemorrhoids symptoms, it can occur when large hemorrhoids protrude from the anus and become swollen and constricted by the anal sphincter muscles. These protruding hemorrhoids can also cause the skin around the anus to become irritated. When pain is severe, it can be an indication that the hemorrhoid is strangulated, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Anal or rectal bleeding can also be a sign of certain cancers, including anal and colon cancers. If you notice blood in the toilet or a large amount of blood on toilet paper which does not decrease within a few days, you should notify your physician, especially if you are over 50 years of age or your family has a history of these types of cancers.
External Hemorrhoids What are external hemorrhoids?
External hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that are located within the anus, and which can cause pain, burning, and itching. In some cases, these vessels extend to the outside of the anus where they become visible and palpable.
What causes external hemorrhoids?
External hemorrhoids usually develop as a result of pressure, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy, obesity, straining during a bowel movement, sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, vomiting, and even coughing and sneezing. In some cases, heavy lifting or certain types of physical labor can cause hemorrhoids to occur.
Diet can also contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Diets high in processed foods are more likely to result in the condition, while individuals who consume diets high in fiber are less likely to experience hemorrhoids. Diets low in fiber can often result in constipation, which can cause straining during bowel movements. Inadequate fluid intake can also cause constipation, as well as hard stools which can irritate tender and swollen hemorrhoids. Individuals who are prone to developing hemorrhoids should be sure to partake of a diet high in fiber, and be sure to remain well hydrated.
Research indicates that some individuals actually inherit a tendency to develop hemorrhoids. About 50 percent of men and women in the U.S. will have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, usually between the ages of 20 and 50 years.
What are the treatments for external hemorrhoids?
When treating external hemorrhoids, there are two primary goals: ease the pain and itching, and shrink the hemorrhoids. A wide variety of creams, ointments and suppositories are available to offer relief for pain, burning and itching. Some topical preparations may also shrink hemorrhoids. Sitz baths, which involve soaking the rectal area in very warm water, are an ideal way to both relieve symptoms and shrink hemorrhoids. For the best results, Sitz baths should be taken several times a day and each bath should last at least 15 to 20 minutes.
If you have external hemorrhoids, take care to clean the area thoroughly with warm water after bowel movements. A bulk fiber laxative can also be used to soften stools, which will help eliminate straining that can cause hemorrhoids to become aggravated.
Internal Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids of any type can be incredible painful and irritating, but those classified as internal are typically worse and more difficult to treat. Hemorrhoids are most easily defined as swollen veins that are either in or around the anal cavity. Internal hemorrhoids are characterized by small swollen veins within the anal canal, but there may also be larger swollen veins found inside.
An early symptom that may indicate the presence of an internal hemorrhoid is bright red blood secretions in stools or a smear of bright red blood found on toilet paper after wiping. There may be no pain associated with cleansing the rectum initially, but as the hemorrhoids worsen there may be a considerable amount of discomfort. Internal hemorrhoids may itch, but this is normally a fairly late sign. A simple physical exam conducted by a qualified medical professional is often enough to diagnose hemorrhoids of both the external and internal sort.
There are certain risk factors that may increase the incidence of internal hemorrhoids. Pregnant women are typically plagued with hemorrhoids as are individuals struggling with various levels of obesity. In addition, the chance of hemorrhoids drastically rises with age and it is estimated that nearly half of patients over the age of 55 have experienced some type of hemorrhoids. Some medical conditions, such as heart disease, may also increase the incidence of internal hemorrhoids.
Several things have been proven to help prevent or minimize the occurrence of internal hemorrhoids. These preventative measures include avoiding prolonged sitting, avoiding straining while on the toilet, exercising regularly, and increasing the amount of fiber in one's diet to avoid constipation.
Internal hemorrhoids should be treated as quickly as possible before they result in more severe problems. The sagging veins often exit out through the anus and the result is an incredibly painful experience when the muscles found within the rectum contract. Such contraction can lead to hard bumps filled with blood or fluid, and these often itch intensely. Most cases of internal hemorrhoids that are caught early can be stopped from escalating into a more severe infection.
There is a wide variety of different treatments available for internal hemorrhoids, but most are virtually non-invasive and painless. The remedies range from medications to life changes to surgery, but only physicians can truly determine which will be necessary. Anybody suffering from any type of hemorrhoids should seek medical attention for further advice.
Hemorrhoids Causes Hemorrhoids are a common condition, which can be extremely embarrassing. We all have hemorrhoidal veins in our anal and rectal region, when these viens are put under pressure, the pressure can cause them to swell. This causes the discomfort and pain with which sufferers of hemorrhoids contend. It is believed that hemorrhoids are one of the more common ailments in the United States. The problem is that it is such an embarrassing condition that many do not seek treatment. Since most people who suffer from hemorrhoids are too shy to get help, the best remedy can be avoiding the causes of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are caused primarily by poor dietary choices and straining on the toilet. These hemorrhoid causes are linked; eating bad food can lead to struggling and straining on the toilet. "Bad foods" include fast food and processed foods. There are several other causes of hemorrhoids, some of which are unavoidable. Some unavoidable hemorrhoids causes include pregnancy, genetics and other diseases. Some diseases can actually lead to a worsening of hemorrhoids. Some activities can be avoided to prevent hemorrhoids from flaring up. One way to prevent hemorrhoids is to get a good amount of sleep. Inadequate sleep can increase indigestion and therefore straining, the major causes of the condition. Extreme physical exertion and heavy weight lifting can also increase the risk of hemorrhoids. However, a lack of exercise can also have adverse effects. More proof of the frustration that living with hemorrhoids causes. Constipation and diarrhea can also cause hemorrhoids these conditions can be prevented but are sometimes unavoidable depending on diet and other conditions. It is important when suffering from constipation or diarrhea to remember that sitting on the toilet for an extended period is not good for hemorrhoids. Other factors that can contribute to hemorrhoids are aging and the use of laxatives. Standing for an extended period, whether when working or waiting for a bus, can also be associated with this condition. It is clear to see why hemorrhoids are so common among people. Fortunately, hemorrhoids are self-healing. This means that if activities, which cause hemorrhoids to flare up, are avoided, the condition can reverse itself. Living with hemorrhoids is embarrassing and painful, but there are medical treatments that can help. If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, it is important that you consult a medical physician for help.
Hemorrhoids Treatments Are you suffering from hemorrhoids? Swollen, red, and inflamed veins near and around the lower rectum and anus are hemorrhoids, but fortunately there are many ways to treat them. Hemorrhoids can be accompanied by bleeding, itching, and constipation. Hemorrhoids treatments are designed to alleviate the symptoms, discomfort, and pain caused by hemorrhoids.
Over-the-Counter and Other Methods of Treating Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids treatments can be done in the comfort of your home. Self hemorrhoid treatments include:
- Relax and soak in a tub with Epsom salts or a warm Jacuzzi several times a day.
- Apply over-the counter creams or ointments for hemorrhoids on the affected areas. Most topical hemorrhoid treatments alleviate itching, burning sensations, and soothe irritating tissue, but read labels to choose the product that is best for your symptoms as active ingredients may vary or ask your pharmacist for assistance. Common over-the-counter remedies include: Preparation H, Preparation H Anti-Itch, Nupercainal or Tucks.
- Modifying your diet to include fiber rich foods can loosen the stool, but taking a fiber supplement ensures you will get the fiber you need. Fiber supplements can easily be mixed with water. Metamucil (active ingredient is psyllium seed) or Citrucil, which is made with methucellulose are effective supplements. Fiber rich foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Drinking eight or more glasses of water (not caffeine or alcohol) or other clear fluids may help relieve pressure from hemorrhoids.
- Apply an ice bag to the affected area, but limit application to no more than fifteen or twenty minutes.
- Applying pads saturated with witch hazel or using pre-medicated pads can be effective for treating hemorrhoids. Place the medicated pads at the site of the pain.
- Oral over-the-counter hemorrhoids treatments can alleviate pain by internally traveling to the origin of the pain. Treating hemorrhoids with Ibuprofen minimizes pain and inflammation. Aspirin should not be used as a hemorrhoids treatment.
- Treating hemorrhoids with a stool softener can reduce constipation.
How your pharmacist can help:
Your pharmacist will be familiar with the active ingredients in creams, ointments, and oral medications and can help you make the best selections for your symptoms. Some active ingredients in creams for hemorrhoids treatments include: lubricants such as petroleum jelly or glycerine, hydrocortisone (which should not be used excessively), and stramonium , tetracaine , or benzocaine( anesthetics) which provide comfort and relief from pain. Your symptoms will help the pharmacist guide your selections.
Prescription Hemorrhoid Relief
Anucort-HC suppositories, Anusol, ProctoCream, and ProctoFoam, Proctosol, Analpram are popular hemorrhoids treatments for relieving itching, redness, and discomfort. A suppository is inserted in the anus and should provide relief quickly. A suppository with a pain killer will relieve pain and one with an antibiotic should wipe out infection.
Homeopathic Hemorrhoid Treatments
Homeopathic hemorrhoid treatments have not been proven successful by medical science and are based on natural products often from plants. Homeopathic remedies are usually non-medicinal oral tablets, creams or ointments. Natural ingredients that relieve itching, burning, constipation, and redness are used in homeopathic cures for treating hemorrhoids. However, before using them patients should discuss them with a physician to ensure that there will be no allergies or side effects, although side effects are rare. Homeopathic remedies should be selected based on the patient's particular symptoms. Patients should give the remedy time to work before taking additional doses. Common homeopathic remedies often contain: Calc Fluor (may alleviate a burning sensation in the rectum), Butcher's Broom (can minimize swelling), and Horse Chestnut (builds up vein walls). Some active ingredients such as witch hazel, aloe, and vitamin E and others can be found in pharmacies.
Hemorrhoids Treatments Maximizing Comfort
Another easy way to relieve pain while treating hemorrhoids is to wipe your anus with a lubricated tissue instead of dry toilet paper. Many tissues on the market are treated with Aloe, which will be soothing.
A doughnut shaped pillow, available at pharmacies, can make hemorrhoid patients who must sit for prolonged periods comfortable.
Contact your physician if home hemorrhoid treatments do not provide relief within a week. Depending on the particular symptoms, physicians may recommend a variety of other options.
Rubber band litigation entails putting a band at the bottom of the hemorrhoid, which cuts off circulation preventing blood flow to the hemorrhoid thereby causing the hemorrhoid to dissipate. Rubber band litigation is an outpatient procedure that has positive results up to eighty percent of the time. Patients should drink a lot of water, and ensure that they get sufficient fiber.
There are other ways to get rid of hemorrhoids. Sclerotherapy (chemical injection) and Infrared Coagulation (probe is used to burn the tissue) are alternate ways to get rid of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove hemorrhoids that are large or severe, but is rarely needed as other treatments are usually successful and less intrusive.
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