Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels or veins in the anal or rectal area. They can occur on the outside of the anus, where they are felt as small bumps when wiping; or they may be located on the inside, where they are usually painless. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common and nagging disorders. Although troublesome, hemorrhoids are rarely serious and often clear up by themselves or with minimal treatment. Treatment typically is simple and effective and may include pain-free ligation or “banding,” which can be done in an office setting. More serious cases may still require surgery. People with hemorrhoids who work closely with their physician are usually assured a good outcome and relief from this common disorder.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are very common, with half of the US population over 50 having at one time consulted a doctor about these painful, itchy, sometimes bleeding bumps along the anus. They are bunches of enlarged veins, external ones that you feel as bumps or internal ones that occasionally protrude through the rectum.
If you strain frequently, perhaps due to constipation, or lift heavy weights you may cause them. Typical symptoms include bright red blood drops. They can make it hurt to clean properly after a bowel movement. Increasing fiber and fluid intake can help prevent hemorrhoids.
Minor hemorrhoids may be treated with lubrication and use of stool softeners. Doctors may use an instrument to put rubber bands around them to make them clot or fall off, inject them with a clotting agent, use infrared light to heat clot, or surgery for removal.
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Brigham and Women's Hospital answeredSee All 3 AnswersAlthough hemorrhoids during pregnancy are sometimes caused by blocked circulation from the increased size of the fetus, they frequently are caused by straining from constipation. To prevent hemorrhoids, eat correctly, and add fruits, raw vegetables, bran products, and lots of water to your daily diet. If you do suffer from hemorrhoids, try lying on your side with your hips elevated on a pillow, or soaking in a warm tub. You can use over-the-counter ointments, but ask your doctor first, as some medication in ointments can be absorbed through the skin and affect your baby’s system. -
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See All 2 AnswersHemorrhoids are caused by repeated pressure and strain. Certain conditions may cause internal hemorrhoids to bulge, become irritated, and bleed, including:
• Straining at stool
• Frequent constipation (hard or difficult bowel movements)
• Diarrhea (frequent, loose, watery stool)
• Pregnancy (especially in the third trimester)
• Cirrhosis of the liver (can cause pooling of blood in the vessels around the rectum) -
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HealthyWomen answeredSee All 3 AnswersSometimes constipation that can occur during pregnancy may be accompanied by hemorrhoids, enlarged veins near your anus. You may get hemorrhoids during pregnancy even if you don't have any problems with constipation. They occur, in large part, because the growing baby puts pressure on these veins, causing them to swell.
Try not to strain during bowel movements, because that could make your hemorrhoids worse, leading to itching, soreness or even bleeding. If you have hemorrhoids, increase your fluid and fiber consumption and check with your healthcare professional before taking any medication. -
1 AnswerA
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep bowel movements regular and stools soft. Also, avoid prolonged standing, sitting, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, straining at stool, and aggressive wiping.