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What Does Hemorrhoids Look Like?
Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable and painful problem that many people experience, but may not fully understand. Knowing what they look like and good habits that should be followed to prevent them can go a long way in helping to manage them effectively.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins, but develop in the area of the rectum and anus instead of the legs. Hemorrhoids occur as a result of increased pressure in the lower rectum, which can be due to a variety of things. It’s important to reduce excessive physical and mental strain associated with straining during a bowel movement on an ongoing basis to help reduce the likelihood of hemorrhoids.
What Does Hemorrhoids Look Like?
Though everyone’s experience with the condition is different, externally a hemorrhoid can look like a bump, swelling or a lump. It may be red or skin toned in color. It also may feel sore or itchy when touched. Internal hemorrhoids can be harder to detect and may not be visible, but may cause pain if pushed around during a bowel movement.
Additional Symptoms of Hemerhoids:
- Rectal pain
- Itchiness in the anal area
- Bright red blood on toilet tissue
- A small amount of mucus discharge after a bowel movement
Prevention and Treatments
The best way to prevent and treat hemorrhoids is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating foods high in fiber, drinking sufficient fluid, staying active, not straining excessively and using the bathroom when needed can all help to reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids. In addition, there are several treatments available for existing hemorrhoids. For cases that are particularly painful and uncomfortable, treatments including rubber-band ligation, laser therapy and surgical removal may be suggested by a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
No one wants to experience the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Knowing what does hemorrhoids look like and understanding the best strategies and treatments to reduce the risk of developing them can help to maintain them effectively and keep them from becoming larger and more painful. Prevention is the key to good hemerrhoidal health.
