People often ask, “How do I know if I have hemorrhoids?” Hemorrhoids are a common occurrence in adults and elderly. Here are the signs that you have this disease:
•You experience painless bleeding during bowel movements.
•You feel a lump on your rectum or anal area.
•Your anal region feels itchy and irritated.
•There is pain and discomfort when you sit or walk.
•You notice fecal leakage on your underwear.
There are two types of hemorrhoids – internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and are usually out of view but may protrude on the anal opening due to excessive straining. When this happens, it can cause pain, irritation, discomfort and bleeding.
An external hemorrhoid is located outside the anus. Due to its location, it can easily itch and bleed because of irritation. In some instances, this external type become thrombosed wherein the blood pools under the skin and produces a hard and painful lump.
Is this condition Treatable?
Now that you know the answer to the question “How do I know if I have hemorrhoids,” you should also know how to treat it. Constipation is the common cause of this dilemma. Eating more fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables will help soften your poops so it can pass through the anus without straining. Too much pushing to discharge the stool can put great pressure on the anal veins which causes them to swell.
Diarrhea also causes hemorrhoids as it irritates the veins and tissues on the anal area, causing inflammation. Fiber also helps add more bulk to your stool and absorbs the excess liquid in the intestinal tract so that the stool is not watery. Eating fruits such as bananas and apples which are rich in pectin also helps harden the stool to prevent diarrhea.
Using wet wipes soaked in witch hazel is also a common treatment for hemorrhoids. It provides instant relief to the itch, discomfort and pain due to the condition. Witch hazel also helps reduce the inflammation. In addition, you may also perform warm Sitz baths in the morning, afternoon and before bedtime. This will help alleviate the symptoms. The warmth coming from the Sitz bath relaxes the swelling veins and relieves the pain and irritation. Frequent Sitz bath also helps keep the hemorrhoidal area clean which helps prevent against infection.
To help ease the pain and swelling, various topical solutions are available without the need of a prescription. These topical solutions help fast track the healing process by providing a protective layer on the affected area and by providing a better healing environment.
Having hemorrhoids can be very uncomfortable and painful at times. To save yourself from the hemorrhoidal symptoms, it is best to prevent it by:
•Eating more fiber to prevent constipation.
•Drinking more water and natural fruit juice to stay hydrated.
•Refrain from excessive straining.
How do I know if I have hemorrhoids? If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
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