Contents
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the anus or rectum. They’re usually caused by straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods of time, or pregnancy. While they’re usually not serious, they can cause discomfort.
What Are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?
If you have hemorrhoids, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements
- Itching around the anus
- Swelling or a lump near the anus
- Anal pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
How Do You Get Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are caused by several risk factors, such as:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Obesity
- Low-fiber diet
- Pregnancy
- Lifting heavy objects
- Anal intercourse
- Prolonged sitting or standing
Treating Hemorrhoids
Home remedies such as eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and sitting in a warm bath may be enough to relieve mild symptoms. Over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories may help relieve itching, swelling, and discomfort.
If lifestyle changes and home remedies don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend additional treatments such as surgery or injections. If your hemorrhoids are extremely painful, your doctor may even recommend removal.
Preventing Hemorrhoids
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to maintain regular bowel habits. This means eating lots of fiber-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly. If you’re having problems with constipation, your doctor may recommend a laxative.
Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent hemorrhoids, taking steps to maintain regular bowel habits and avoid straining during bowel movements can help reduce your risk.
