Hemorrhoids and You; The way out.

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Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. 

Hemorrhoids are also called piles and the type of hemorrhoids you have is largely dependent on where it occurs. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding and can often go away on their own or with the help of some treatments in severe cases.

     TYPES

1. Internal hemorrhoid;

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Timonina/Shutterstock

This type of hemorrhoid involves the veins inside your rectum. They are so far inside that you can't see and feel them. This is the painless type. They only become painful when prolapsed (bulges outside your anus).


2.External hemorrhoid;


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Timonina/Shutterstock

External hemorrhoid involves the veins and skin around your anus where you have more pain-sensing nerves. They may crack or bleed from straining or rubbing. This type of hemorrhoid can be very itchy especially if a blood clot forms.

    CAUSES

Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins of your anus and rectum. You may be more likely to get hemorrhoids if other family members, like your parents, had them. Some of the main causes are straining during bowel movement, sitting on the toilet for too long, extra weight gain, diets low in fiber, anal sex, and pregnancy. Constipation remains one of the main causes of hemorrhoids, though it usually a short-term problem.

                          SYMPTOMS


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1. Inflammation
2. Pain or burning sensation
3. Light bleeding
4. Discomfort
5. Itching

      PREVENTIONS

-Include more fiber in your diet. Fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, and whole-grain bread and cereals help to ease bowel movements.
-Avoid low fiber foods such as ice cream, cheese, white bread, and meat.
-Drink plenty of water (8 or more glasses a day)
-Exercise regularly
-Use laxatives such as Fiberpur, Metamucil, etc to help soften your stool.
-Avoid spicy foods, nuts, coffee, tea, and alcohol

              RELIEVING THE PAIN;


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- Take warm soaks(sitz bath) or regular baths 3 or 4 times a day.
- Pat your anus gently after each bowel movement with moist toilet paper or moistened pads.
- Apply a cream that contains witch hazel to that area or use a numbing ointment.
- Avoid heavy lifting or straining.
- For painful flare-ups, stay in bed or stand on your feet all day.
     

      In summary, we have two types of hemorrhoids namely internal and external hemorrhoids and they are largely dependent on the spot it occurs. Eating foods rich in fiber and drinking lots of water will aid the digestive system and soften the stool. When dealing with external hemorrhoids, it's better to use creams and ointments rather than suppositories.

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