Lifting heavy objects, along with other activities that can cause straining, may also lead to hemorrhoids.
Increased pressure during pregnancy, and being overweight, are other contributing factors.
Types of Hemorrhoids: Internal and External
Hemorrhoids are either internal or external.
Internal hemorrhoids generally don’t hurt, but they often bleed painlessly.
(1)
External hemorrhoidsThese hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the outside of the anus.
These are the most uncomfortable hemorrhoids and can be itchy or painful, and may feel lumpy.
In addition, take a stab at pat the area dry instead of wiping it.
Some women get hemorrhoids for the first time when theyre pregnant.
But if youve had hemorrhoids before, youre more likely to get them again when youre pregnant.
Learn More About Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy
How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you to describe your symptoms and will take your medical history.
At-Home Hemorrhoid Treatment and Remedies
Avoiding constipation is key in treating hemorrhoids.
And diet and lifestyle changes, especially consuming more fiber, may help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms.
But avoid laxatives, which can cause diarrhea and worsen hemorrhoid symptoms.
To ease the discomfort brought on by hemorrhoids, you might do several things on your own at home.
For internal hemorrhoids, a few office procedures may be considered.
The procedure is successful in 95 percent of cases, though patients may experience postoperative pain.
(The staples fall out over time.)
The following tips may help you prevent constipation.
(8) But be careful to add fiber to your diet slowly to avoid excessive gas or bloating.
There are a number of easy, healthy ways to incorporate more fiber into your diet.
Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal, are also an important source.
Legumes, including lentils, various beans, and green peas, are a great way to get fiber.
Nuts and seeds make for a great fiber-filled snack, too.
If you’re having trouble getting enough fiber in your regular diet, consider a fiber supplement.
Complications of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid complications are rare.
Complications may include:
AnemiaBleeding from chronic hemorrhoids can cause anemia, or not having enough red blood cells.
This can be extremely painful and incapacitating, and surgery may be needed to treat it.
(11)
Research and Statistics: Who Gets Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are very common in both men and women, affecting about 1 in 20 Americans.
(12)The most common time to get hemorrhoids is between ages 45 and 65.
(13)Hemorrhoids are also common in pregnant women.
At any given time, about 10 million Americans roughly 4 percent of adults have hemorrhoids.
(14)Its estimated that 75 percent of Americans will have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.
Hemorrhoids also often develop during pregnancy.
Constipation during pregnancy is a common cause of hemorrhoids.
The Takeaway
Hemorrhoids are swollen, enlarged veins around the anus and rectum.
Causes include chronic diarrhea and constipation, straining too hard, and sitting on the toilet for too long.
Risk factors include being overweight, a lack of fiber in the diet, aging, and pregnancy.
Hemorrhoids can usually be treated at home, and they tend to go away in a week or so.
If they don’t, you may want to see a doctor.
Home treatment includes over-the-counter ointments and creams such as hydrocortisone, pain relievers, and sitz baths.
Using ice and sitting on cushions can also help manage the pain.
In rare cases, hemorrhoids may lead to complications such as anemia and strangulated hemorrhoids.
Surgery may be required to treat the latter.
Common Questions & Answers
They usually go away after a few days or a week.
She previously worked as an editor and staff writer at Environmental Health News.
Sources
Digestive Health
What Is an Anal Fistula?
