Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are veins in or outside of the anus that may become dilated or swollen.

Hemorrhoids are common. They are not likely to be a serious health problem. Most people have some bleeding from them once in awhile.

Signs & Symptoms

• Bright red blood on or in the stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet
• Anal or rectal tenderness. Anal itching.
• Uncomfortable, painful bowel movements, especially with straining
• A lump can be felt at the anus.
• Mucus passes from the anus.

Causes

Hemorrhoids are usually caused by repeated pressure in the rectal or anal veins. Often this is due to repeated straining to pass stool.

The risk for getting hemorrhoids increases with:

• Prolonged sitting on the toilet and straining to have a bowel movement
• Constipation
• A low dietary fiber intake
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Frequently lifting heavy objects

Treatment

Don’t assume that rectal bleeding is “just hemorrhoids.” See your doctor to find out the cause. If symptoms of hemorrhoids are not relieved with self-care or with time, medical care may be needed. This includes:

• Laser heat or infrared light
• Rubber band ligation. A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside the rectum. The band cuts off blood flow to the hemorrhoid.
• Surgery
• Cryosurgery. This freezes the affected tissue.

Self-Care / Prevention

• Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid per day.
• Eat foods with good sources of dietary fiber, such as bran, whole grain breads and cereals, vegetables, and fruits.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
• Pass stool as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait and the urge goes away, your stool could become dry and hard. This makes it harder to pass.
• Don’t sit on the toilet for long periods of time.
• Don’t strain to pass stool.
• Don’t hold your breath when trying to pass stool.
• Keep the anal area clean. Use moist towelettes or wet (not dry) toilet paper after you pass stool.