Hemorrhoids: Types and Treatment

There are different types of hemorrhoids, derived from the Greek words, “hemo,” (blood), and “rrhoos,” (discharging). Hemorrhoids are also known as piles, from the Latin word, “pila,” (ball), and are similar to varicose veins that get enlarged and lose elasticity, resulting in saclike protrusions into the anal canal. The protrusions are not tumors or growths and generally occur by sitting or standing for long periods of time, or by persistent coughing, lifting heavy or even improperly lifting objects that are light. Hemorrhoids are also caused by constipation and straining during bowel movements.

There are also other factors that contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids, such as obesity, lack of exercise, liver damage, food allergies, and lack of dietary fiber. The problem may also occur during pregnancy and after child birth because of hormonal changes and pressure caused by the developing fetus.

Studies have shown that approximately fifty percent of Americans contract the problem by the age of fifty and continues right through the age of seventy when it begins to decrease.

Symptoms include itching, burning, pain, inflammation, swelling, irritation, seepage, and bleeding. However, there is no cause for alarm when bleeding occurs. Rectal bleeding should not be considered as an indication of some kind of disease.

There are different types of hemorrhoids as follows:

l) External:

External hemorrhoids are located under the skin at the opening of the anal cavity and develops as a hard lump, including swelling when there is blood-clotting. This type of hemorrhoids generally affects younger people and can be extremely painful.

2) Internal:

Internal hemorrhoids occurs inside the rectum and are usually painless. Such hemorrhoids accompany bleeding. with the blood showing a bright red.

3) Prolapsed:

This type of hemorrhoids is internal except that it is collapsed and protrude outside the anus, and is generally accompanied by a mucous discharge and excessive bleeding. This type of hemorrhoids is liable to become thrombosed, meaning that these are accompanied by clots that prevent receding. Thrombosed hemorrhoids are excruciatingly painful.

Hemorrhoids are confined to humans alone and no other creature develops this problem, which signifies that the source of the problem is contained in our dietary and nutritional habits. The problem can occur at any age. It can also be hereditary.

Treatment:

Herbs:

Alo Vera gel, applied on the anus. Relieves pain and soothes the burning sensation; Eat foods, high in fiber; Avoid fats; Include a daily intake of 1 or 2 tablespoons of flaxseed oil; Use a peeled clove or garlic as a suppository. You can also use potato suppository by peeling a potato and cutting it into small cone-shaped pieces; Do not strain when moving your bowels: Exercise moderately; Do not sit or stand continuously.

If the problem keeps persisting, it is advisable to see your health care provider.