Understanding 'Hemorrhoids'

Hemorrhoids also know as piles are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectumdefine. It causes long lasting discomfort and is caused by factors including chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, aging or straining to have a bowel movement. They often go unnoticed and usually clear up after a few days.

The prevalence peaks of hemorrhoids which causes problems is between ages 45 and 65 and it is common among both males and females. The common symptom of hemorrhoids inside the anus is bright red blood covering the stool, on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

If hemorrhoids are inside the anus then they are not painful, but if they protrude outside anus then can become irritable and sore. At times, protruded hemorrhoids move back into anal canal by itself and can be pushed back in, but other times they need expert treatment by hands of doctor.

National Digestive Diseases Informational Clearinghouse says that the pain can be treated effectively with hemorrhoidal creams, ointments or suppositories. Other treatments include warm bath and a cream. But, if you have large hemorrhoids, you may need to undergo surgery and other treatments.

Do get an appointment with doctor if you have rectal bleeding, it may be an indication of some other serious illness such as anal cancerdefine.