OVERVIEW
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and rectum. When the walls of these vessels stretch, they can become irritated.
Although hemorrhoids can sometimes be painful, they often get better on their own. Lifestyle changes, such as eating more fiber and exercising, can help relieve symptoms and lower the risk of future hemorrhoids.
SYMPTOMS
– Bleeding
– Itching or irritation in the anal area
– Discomfort, pain, or soreness around the anus
– Lumps and swelling in the anal region
– Dilation, or bulging, of a vein, which may or may not be painful, depending on where it occurs
Symptoms can be uncomfortable or alarming, but they often improve on their own after a few days.
CAUSES
Although doctors do not fully understand why hemorrhoids appear, they may occur for the following reasons:
1. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, tissues in the rectum become weaker, and hormones cause veins to relax and swell. Hemorrhoids may occur in up to 35% of pregnant women.
2. Aging: Hemorrhoids are most common among adults over age 50 years. However, young people and children can also get them.
3. Diarrhea: Hemorrhoids can occur after cases of chronic diarrhea.
4. Chronic constipation: Straining to move stool puts additional pressure on the walls of the blood vessels, which may result in hemorrhoids.
5. Sitting for too long: Spending a long time in a seated position, especially on the toilet, can cause hemorrhoids.
Standing for long periods of time is a common cause of hemorrhoids, as blood above the rectum exerts pressure on the rectal and anal areas.
6. Diet: Eating low fiber foods may contribute to hemorrhoids.
8. Heavy lifting: Repeatedly lifting heavy objects can lead to hemorrhoids.
9. Anal intercourse: This can cause new hemorrhoids or worsen existing ones.
10. Weight: Research has linked being overweight to a higher chance of hemorrhoids. This may result from increased pressure within the abdomen.
11. Genetics: Some people inherit a tendency to develop hemorrhoids