Hemorrhoids - Symptoms and causes

Discover the symptoms and causes of hemorrhoids in this comprehensive article. Learn how to identify and manage this common condition. Read on to gain valuable insights and find effective solutions to alleviate discomfort.

Introduction

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus. They can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and even bleeding. In this article, we will delve into the symptoms and causes of hemorrhoids, explore effective treatment options, and provide practical tips to prevent their occurrence. Whether you're experiencing hemorrhoids or seeking to educate yourself about this condition, this article will equip you with valuable insights to manage and alleviate discomfort.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the lower rectum or anus. They can be internal, external, or both. Internal hemorrhoids develop within the rectum and usually go unnoticed unless they become enlarged or prolapsed. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, form under the skin around the anus and are easily noticeable.

Hemorrhoids can occur due to increased pressure on the veins in the rectal area. This pressure can be a result of various factors, such as straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting or standing, chronic constipation or diarrhea, obesity, and pregnancy. Understanding the different types of hemorrhoids is essential for identifying and managing the condition effectively.

Types of Hemorrhoids

There are two primary types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.

1. Internal Hemorrhoids:

2. External Hemorrhoids: 

These develop under the skin around the anus and can cause discomfort, pain, and itching. Thrombosed external hemorrhoids occur when blood pools within the swollen veins, causing a painful lump.

Common Symptoms

Hemorrhoids can manifest through various symptoms, which can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

1. Itching and Irritation: Persistent itching in and around the anus is a common symptom of hemorrhoids. The irritation is often caused by the swelling and inflammation of the veins.
2. Pain or Discomfort: External hemorrhoids can cause pain and discomfort, especially during bowel movements or when sitting for extended periods. Thrombosed external hemorrhoids may result in more intense and throbbing pain due to the blood clot within the swollen vein.
3. Bleeding: One of the most common signs of hemorrhoids is bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on the surface of the stool. This bleeding is usually painless and occurs during or after bowel movements. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes of rectal bleeding.
4. Prolapse: Internal hemorrhoids may prolapse or protrude outside the anus, especially during bowel movements. This can cause discomfort, pain, and a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying.
5. Swelling and Inflammation: Hemorrhoids often result in swelling and inflammation in the rectal area. This can lead to discomfort and a sensation of pressure or heaviness.
6. Hygiene Challenges: Hemorrhoids can make it challenging to maintain proper anal hygiene due to pain, sensitivity, and the risk of exacerbating the condition. This can lead to increased discomfort and potential infection if not addressed.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Several factors contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:

1. Straining during Bowel Movements: Putting excessive strain on the rectal area while passing stools can increase the pressure on the veins, leading to the development of hemorrhoids. This commonly occurs due to constipation or hard stools.
2. Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Sitting or standing for long periods without breaks can exert pressure on the rectal area, contributing to the formation of hemorrhoids.
3. Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea: Both chronic constipation and frequent episodes of diarrhea can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements due to constipation and the irritation caused by diarrhea can strain the veins in the rectal area.
4. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the pressure on the abdomen and pelvic area, leading to increased strain on the veins and a higher risk of developing hemorrhoids.
5. Pregnancy: Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy due to increased pressure on the rectal veins from the growing uterus. Hormonal changes and constipation often experienced during pregnancy can further contribute to their development.
6. Aging: As we age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectal area may weaken, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.

Prevention and Lifestyle Changes

Taking proactive steps to prevent hemorrhoids is crucial for reducing the risk of their occurrence or recurrence. Here are some effective preventive measures and lifestyle changes:

1. High-Fiber Diet: Consuming a fiber-rich diet can promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation, a common cause of hemorrhoids. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your diet.
2. Adequate Hydration: Drinking adequate water throughout the day helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass during bowel movements. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily.
3. Avoid Straining: Avoid straining during bowel movements by not delaying the urge to have a bowel movement. If you're experiencing difficulty passing stools, try using a stool softener or fiber supplement under medical guidance.
4. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help stimulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Exercise also promotes healthy blood circulation, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.
5. Practice Good Bathroom Habits: Avoid excessive wiping after bowel movements, as this can irritate the anal area. Instead, opt for gentle patting with moist toilet paper or use a bidet for thorough cleansing. Additionally, avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods.
6. Maintain a Healthy Weight: If you're overweight, strive to achieve a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Losing excess weight can reduce the pressure on the rectal veins and lower the risk of hemorrhoids.
7. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Take regular breaks if your work involves sitting or standing for extended periods. Get up, stretch, and move around to relieve pressure on the rectal area.
8. Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques to avoid putting excessive strain on the pelvic and rectal area.
9. Include probiotics in your diet: Probiotics can help improve overall digestive function, including regulating bowel movements and reducing constipation.

Implementing these preventive measures and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids and promote overall rectal health.

Effective Treatment Options

When it comes to managing hemorrhoids, several treatment options are available, ranging from self-care measures to medical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and symptoms of hemorrhoids. Here are some effective treatment options:

1. Over-the-Counter Products: Topical creams, ointments, or suppositories containing ingredients like hydrocortisone or witch hazel can help alleviate itching, inflammation, and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
2. Sitz Baths: Soaking the rectal area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, multiple times a day, can provide relief from pain and inflammation.
3. Dietary Supplements: Fiber supplements or stool softeners can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation, reducing the strain on hemorrhoids.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting the preventive measures discussed earlier, such as maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and practicing good bathroom habits, can aid in the management of hemorrhoids.
5. Medical Procedures: In severe cases or when conservative measures fail to provide relief, medical procedures may be necessary. These include:

• Rubber band ligation: A procedure where a rubber band is placed around the base of hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to wither and fall off.
• Sclerotherapy: Injecting a chemical solution into a hemorrhoid to shrink and reduce its size.
• Infrared coagulation: Using heat therapy to coagulate the blood vessels, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and recede.

6. Surgical Intervention: In rare cases when other treatments haven't been effective, surgical removal of hemorrhoids may be recommended. This is typically reserved for large, persistent, or thrombosed hemorrhoids.

How do probiotics help prevent or treat hemorrhoids?

It's important to note that maintaining good digestive health can indirectly promote healthy bowel movements and potentially reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. Probiotics may play a role in improving overall digestive function, including regulating bowel movements and reducing constipation. By promoting regular and soft stools, probiotics may help alleviate strain during bowel movements, which is a common contributing factor to hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding. Understanding the symptoms and causes of hemorrhoids is crucial for proper identification and management. By adopting preventive measures, such as maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and practicing good bathroom habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids. If you experience symptoms or need assistance, consult a healthcare professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment options based on your specific condition.

Including probiotics in your diet will help prevent and treat hemorrhoids. We recommend the live and active probiotics in Xaviax Biogel, as they contain probiotics, prebiotics, and nutrients, as well as a taste that the whole family will love.

To prevent hemorrhoids, we especially suggest Xaviax DTX, which contains Lactobacillus Rhamnosus HN001 and S.Thermophilus SP4 strains, as well as agave inulin as a prebiotic, and agave inulin fiber as a nutrient, which will help prevent constipation, one of the risk factors for hemorrhoids.

In addition, Xaviax has OME, which contains Lactobacillus Rhamnosus HN001 and Lactobacillus delbrueckii bulgaricus LB-87 strains, agave inulin as a prebiotic, and Omega 3 as a nutrient, which contributes to reducing inflammation in the anal or rectal region.

Remember, early intervention and proper care can help alleviate discomfort and promote rectal health, allowing you to lead a comfortable and fulfilling life.

Xaviax, probiotics to look and feel better!

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic. (2019). Hemorrhoids. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268

• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. (n.d.). Hemorrhoids. Retrieved from https://www.fascrs.org/patients/disease-condition/hemorrhoids-0

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Hemorrhoids. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids