By pharm Oluoma
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What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are blood vessels located in the walls of the lower rectum and anus.
What makes it a problem?
Hemorrhoids have an ability to swell and widen, depending on the situation.
What causes it to swell?
Increased pressure within the vessels.
There’re 2 types of hemorrhoids;
– Internal
– External
Internal hemorrhoids form on the walls of the rectum, while external form on the surface of the anus.
How are they differentiated?
Internal hemorrhoids have an ability to protrude, depending on their severity
External hemorrhoids on the other hand stay on the surface and can form blood clots.
What are the symptoms?
Internal hemorrhoids present with;
– Blood in stool
– Painful protrusion of blood vessels
External hemorrhoids present with;
– Anal itching
– Severe pain
Inflammation and swelling
– Hard lumps.
What causes hemorrhoids to swell?
– Constant straining during bowel movements
– Prolonged seating on the toilet
– Chronic constipation
– Being overweight or obese.
What are the risk factors?
– Pregnancy
– Older age
– Low fiber diet
Family history
– Lifting heavy weights
– Anal intercourse.
How are hemorrhoids treated?
They’re treated based on their stage.
There’re 4 stages of internal hemorrhoids;
– Stage 1: The vessels are still inside the rectum and not painful.
– Stage 2: The vessels protrude..
during bowel movement, and goes back in.
Stage 3: The vessels protrude and have to be pushed in manually.
Stage 4: The vessels are constantly out.
For early stages of hemorrhoids, lifestyle modification is required.
– Add fiber to diet
– Drink more water
– Exercise regularly
Pharmacological treatment are also used.
– Stool softeners for constipation
– Anal suppositories to reduce pain and inflammation
– Astringents to dry up the vessels.
For the later stages of hemorrhoids, surgical and non-surgical procedures are used.
5 simple ways to prevent hemorrhoids;
1. Avoid sitting on the toilet for too long
2. Don’t strain during bowel movement
3. Incorporate a lot of fiber like fruits and vegetables
4. Drink at least 3 liters of water daily
5. Exercise regularly.
Bonus point: See a doctor!