Following are the 10 most frequently asked questions about haemorrhoids and their answers:
1. What is hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids are common problem characterized by swollen veins in the anal canal. Although it can be painful, the condition is not medically considered as serious. There are two types related to this condition; the internal and external. Internal haemorrhoids occur when the veins of anal canal swell from the inside while external haemorrhoids, on the other hand, happen when swelling occurs in the opening of the anus. External and internal haemorrhoids can occur at the same time and its treatment depends on its type.
2. What are its signs symptoms?
External and internal haemorrhoids have similar symptoms. These symptoms are associated with the following:
•Itching around the anus
•Bloody bowel or bleeding during bowel movements.
•Pain along the anal area or an experience of pain while cleaning your bottom after release of bowel.
3. What are its causes?
The usual causes of hemorrhoids include the following:
•Vein pressure on rectal and pelvic area such as when doing heavy physical exercises involving the pelvis area like lifting weights or when exerting too much pressure on the rectum during bowel movements.
•Stretching of veins in the anal tissue resulting to swelling.
•Pregnancy
•Poor diet
•Obesity or being overweight
4. Who gets hemorrhoids?
This condition is a common issue. Both men and women has the propensity to get haemorrhoids although women, during the last 6 months of pregnancy and postpartum, are more prone to haemorrhoids. It can occur at any time during lifetime but people usually get it after the age of 30 while those who are above 50 show signs of symptoms.
5. Is it communicable?
Since hemorrhoids are caused by swollen veins, there is no way for it to be contagious.
6. How is it diagnosed?
Hemorrhoids are determined by proper physical examination conducted by a physician. Other than that, your doctor would ask about your past health condition. If you are below 50, you may be subjected to more tests especially if you are already experiencing rectal bleeding. As part of diagnosis, the doctor may examine your rectum using your gloved finger. The doctor may also use a lighted scope to examine your rectum.
7. How is it treated?
Most external haemorrhoids can be treated at home. This can be done by eating more fibrous food, drinking more water or at least 8 glasses of water a day. You can also use ointments to stop the itching or take medicines for a softer stool. Internal haemorrhoids can also be treated by the same techniques. For severe cases, a surgical treatment may be applicable.
8. Who administers the treatment?
A physician administers treatment of haemorrhoids if treatment involves surgery or prescribed medicines.
9. How long does it take for one to recover from hemorrhoids?
Depending on its severity, haemorrhoids easily get healed within a week.
10. How can I prevent hemorrhoids?
This condition can be prevented by adhering to healthy habits such as eating healthy, fibrous food like whole grain and vegetables, drinking plenty of water and having regular exercise.
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