What are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids? How do I have them?

Typically the symptoms of hemorrhoids start with rectal bleeding during bowel movements that is painless. The blood is usually bright red on the tissue when you wipe or in your stool. Be aware, however, that rectal bleeding could be caused by other anal-rectal disorders. Always bring such symptoms to the attention of you doctor. Other common complaints are:

• Skin irritation: Hemorrhoids that bulge from the anus and are large sometimes produce mucus, which causes skin irritation that is mild to severed
• Itching: Internal hemorrhoids often ooze mucus as well cause itching
• Discomfort: The urge to pass a stool afetr having a bowel movement could be present resulting in an uncomfortable feeling. This feeling is caused by bulging hemorrhoids in the end portion of your anal canal.
• Pain: Large hemorrhoids that sweel and bulge from the anus can become painful when they squeezed by the muscles that control the anus.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Nearly 50 percent of all adults will suffer from burning, itching, discomfort, pain and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids, according to New York's world-renown Mayo Clinic.

Hemorroids are enlarged blood vessels located inside or outside the anus resulting from straining and pressure. Signs of hemorrhoids may include itching in the anal area, a protruding lump, bleeding during a bowel movement or localized pain.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum below the anus lining where you don't see or feel them. However, straining to pass stool can irritate and damage hemorrhoids, causing them to bleed. Sometimes straining during bowel movements can push and internal hemorrhoid through the anal opening, which can lead to pain and irritation if not resolved.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

There is no exact known cause for hemorrhoids, although diet and heredity are considered possible factors. Practically-speaking, hemorrhoids generally develop from increased pressure in the veins in the lower rectum. Some of the most common sources of pressure include:

• Constipation and the accompanying extra straining
• Diarrhea and the continuous ejection of loose stools
• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Lifting heavy objects
• Obesity
• Stress

Tips for Relieving and Preventing Hemorrhoids

Living with hemorrhoids can be a challenge. However, you can prevent and relieve hemorrhoidal flare-ups by following these self-care measures recommended by the Mayo Clinic:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, grains and other high-fiber foods. Doing so will help soften your stool and increase it's bulk, which will help lessen the straining that can cause hemorrhoids.
• Consider fiber supplements like Metamucil and Citrucel to help keep stools soft and regular. If you do use fiber supplements, be sure to drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water or other fluids every day. Otherwise, fiber supplements can cause constipation or make constipation worse. Add fiber to your diet slowly to avoid problems with gas.
• Drink plenty of liquids. The exact amount of water and other fluids you should drink each day varies and depends on your age, sex, health, activity level and other factors.
• Use topical treatments. Apply an over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream like Melorrhoid. Or use pads containing witch hazel or a topical numbing agent.
• Keep the anal area clean. Bathe (preferably) or shower daily to cleanse the skin around your anus gently with warm water. Soap isn't necessary and may aggravate the problem. To minimize irritation from moisture, gently dry to area with a hair drier after bathing.
• Apply cold packs. Apply ice packs or cold compresses on the anus to reduce swelling.
• Soak regularly in a warm bath. Do this several times daily.