What is hemorrhoids and how to protect yourself from this disease?

What is hemorrhoids and how to protect yourself from this disease?

Doctors call hemorrhoids a progressive disease of the century.

Anyone who leads a sedentary and adynamic lifestyle is at risk of developing hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids have a number of causes, but often the cause is unknown. 

The trigger for the formation of hemorrhoidal disease is a functional violation of the arteriovenous anastomoses of the cavernous structures and excess blood flow during hemorrhoids.

It should be noted that the pathology is characterized by alternating periods of exacerbation and practically is clinically asymptomatic. Fortunately, effective options are available to treat hemorrhoids. Many people get relief with home treatments and lifestyle changes. 

However, self-medication is not allowed, because without the supervision of a proctologist, it is quite possible that the more serious and dangerous pathology of the large intestine will go unnoticed.

How to detect hemorrhoids? 

Signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids usually depend on the type of hemorrhoid. However, common symptoms include:

  • Itching or irritation in your anal region
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Swelling around your anus
  • Bleeding
  • Swelling of the nodes, thrombosis accompanied by pain;
  • A hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening (prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid), resulting in pain and irritation.
  • Unpleasant feeling of incomplete emptying of the rectum and more. 

Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet
  • Having chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Being obese
  • Being pregnant
  • Eating a low-fiber diet
  • Having anal intercourse
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Regular heavy lifting

As you age, your risk of hemorrhoids increases. That's because the tissues that support the veins in your rectum and anus can weaken and stretch. 

Diagnosis and Treatment

The proctologist will review the physical data, examine the current clinical symptoms.

For reference, the first and second degrees of the disease are subject to conservative treatment, while the third and fourth degrees require surgical intervention. 

When to see a doctor

If you have bleeding during bowel movements or you have hemorrhoids that don't improve after a week of home care, talk to your doctor. 

Seek emergency care if you have large amounts of rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness or faintness.

Prevention

The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to:

  • Eat high-fiber foods;
  • Drink plenty of fluids;
  • Don't strain;
  • Go as soon as you feel the urge;
  • Exercise;
  • Avoid long periods of sitting;
  • Maintain a healthy weight and lose extra pounds in case of obesity;
  • Limit spicy, bitter and sour foods to the maximum in the diet;
  • Follow local hygiene.

 

source: 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268