What are Hemorrhoids?
Updated: Jul 27
If you have ever experienced a sharp, pinching, prickly sensation around your anus followed by temporary or persistent discomfort, pain, and bleeding, you might have hemorrhoids. Don't worry; hemorrhoids are common, affecting nearly 1 in 20 Americans and almost 50% of individuals over 50. Despite bleeding and discomfort, hemorrhoids are not life-threatening.
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Private Healthcare Navigation and Patient Advocacy when YOU need it mostWhat are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are so far inside your rectum that you can't usually see or feel them. External hemorrhoids are under the skin around your anus.
Individuals over the age of 50 are more likely to suffer from hemorrhoids.
What causes hemorrhoids?
The blood vessels in your rectum and around your anus often stretch so thin due to the surrounding pressure of passing stool that the veins bulge and are prone to inflammation and irritation. Increased pressure on the lower rectum that, in turn, produces hemorrhoids can be caused by:
Obesity
Regular heavy lifting
Straining during bowel movements
Pregnancy
Chronic constipation
Sitting on the toilet for extended periods
You might read the list above and think, "I have hemorrhoids, but none apply to me." Well, sometimes, the simple natural anatomy of our unique bodies can work against us. Although not as common a reason, studies have found that individuals with tighter than average smooth muscles in their anal canal are at a greater risk for developing hemorrhoids.
To prevent hemorrhoids, avoid excessive straining and sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids are dependent on the type of hemorrhoid present. Internal hemorrhoid symptoms include but are not limited to:
Painless bleeding, often presented with bright red spots of blood on tissue paper
A vein protruding through the anus and resulting in discomfort or pain
External hemorrhoid symptoms include but are not limited to:
Itching or irritation around the anus
Swelling around the anus
Bleeding
Pain or discomfort, especially when passing a bowel movement
It is important to note that in some instances, blood can pool in external hemorrhoids and form a clot. This is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid and can cause the following symptoms:
Swelling
Inflammation
Intense pain
A solid lump around the anus
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your primary care physician for an appointment.
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed and treated?
To diagnose hemorrhoids, your doctor must examine your anus and rectum. External hemorrhoids can often be seen with a simple examination of the anus. Internal hemorrhoids, however, require a digital exam in which your doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities. These simple exams are typically all needed to confirm the presence of hemorrhoids.
More often than not, hemorrhoids clear up on their own anywhere between 7 to 10 days. When they do not, and they cause continual bleeding, pain, or discomfort, then the following treatments may be applied:
Topical creams often contain steroids and numbing agents to reduce swelling/inflammation and help manage pain.
High fiber diet: Consuming more fiber (leafy greens, legumes, plenty of fruits, and vegetables) can help reduce strain or pressure when passing bowel movements.
Low-intensity exercise: Workouts such as yoga, swimming, or basic stretching can aid in hemorrhoid relief due to encouraging more regular bowel movements with minimal straining.
Warm water soaks: Doing this can aid in reducing pain and swelling.
Oral pain relievers: These medications aid in managing pain.
Surgical removal of varying degrees: This treatment option is often reserved for more extreme cases, clot removals, and persistent, recurring hemorrhoids. Surgery typically offers a permanent solution, but it can sometimes come back depending on diet and bowel habits.
Remember: prevention is key 🔑. Paying attention to your body, maintaining a well-balanced diet 🍽 and an active lifestyle are significant factors in reducing your risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Check out this short informational video on hemorrhoids by MountainStar Health:
Personally
I eat a high-fiber, mostly plant-based 🌱 diet, no red meat, drink 4 liters of water a day, exercise, and am focused on keeping nutrition simple. I am sharing what works for me and what I routinely recommend to my patients.
"Balance. Portion control. Keep nutrition simple. Eat Smart. Eat Healthy. 🌱 🌾 🌿"
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