Hemorrhoids also known as Piles or Kooko are swollen veins located around the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids may be external which is originating in the anus or internal which is also originating in the rectum.
Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the anus or lower rectum which causes the vesels to stretch, thin and irritated due to:
- Chronic diarrhea or Constipation
- Pregnancy
- Diarrhoea
- Straining during bowel movement
- Eating a low- fiber diet
- Heavy lifting
Signs and Symptoms
- Blood is noted on toilet tissue and sometimes in the stool
- painful bowel movements
- Itchy or painful lump or swelling near your anus
- Extreme itching around the anus
Treatments
Medicines and even surgery may sometimes be needed. However, simple measures will alleviate symptoms while hemorrhoids get better without treatment.
Symptomatic treatment
- Ice packs and cold compresses may help with the pain and swelling
- Topical creams and ointments such as suppositories, which contain hydrocortisone can help all discomfort and pain cause by hemorrhoids
- Warm sits baths can also help relieve symptoms
- Some pain killers may alleviate the pain and discomfort
Prevention
Keeping your stools soft, so they pass easily is the best way to prevent hemorrhoids.
- Drink enough water: Drinking enough water helps keep stools soft and prevent constipation and therefore decreases straining
- Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.These helps softens the stool and increases its bulk.
- Don't delay: If you wait to pass a tool, your stool may become hard and dry in your bowel, which makes it harder to pass.
- Don't strain: Don't force a bowel movement when you don't need to go. Straining increases the pressure on your venous cushions, which leads to hemorrhoids. It can also turn internal hemorrhoids into external
- Avoid sitting for long: Sitting too long can increase the pressure on the veins in the anus, particularly sitting on the toilet.
- Exercise: Exercise helps prevent many bowel and digestive issues, including hemorrhoids.
