HEMORRHOIDS
(General Information)
DEFINITION
Hemorrhoids
are swollen but normally present blood vessels in
and around the anus and lower rectum that stretch
under pressure, similar to varicose veins in the legs.
SYMPTOMS
The
most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright
red blood covering the stool, on toilet paper, or
in the toilet bowl. However, an internal hemorrhoid
may protrude through the anus outside the body, becoming
irritated and painful. This is known as protruding
(external) hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids may include painful
swelling or a hard lump around the anus that results
when a blood clot forms. This condition is known as
a thrombosed external hemorrhoids.
DIAGNOSIS
A thorough evaluation
and proper diagnosis by the doctor is important any
time bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool
lasts more than a couple of days. Bleeding may also
be a symptom of other serious diseases including colorectal
cancer.
PREVENTION
Prevention of
the recurrence of hemorrhoids is aimed at changing
conditions associated with the pressure and straining
of constipation. Doctors will often recommend increasing
fiber and fruits in the diet.
PILEX
HERBAL FORMULA: (Dietary
Supplement)
Take 1 to 2
capsules orally a day for 7 days for up to 6 months
relief.
TREATMENT
Medical
treatment of hemorrhoids initially is aimed at relieving
symptoms. Measures to reduce symptoms include:
Warm
tub or sitz bath several times a day
Ice packs to help reduce swelling
Application of a hemorrhoid cream or suppository
Surgical treatments
include:
Rubber band
Chemical, Electrical
Laser, Infrared
Injections
Surgery
-
Text from NIH Pub. No. 94-3021.
- This
write-up is not guaranteed for accuracy or completeness.
- Consult
your doctor for latest complete information on hemorrhoids
and rule out other serious conditions.
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