What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are basically varicose veins of the rectum. Hemorrhoidal veins are located in the anal region. When they swell, the vein walls get stretched thin and irritated and can itch, hurt and bleed. These swollen veins are known as hemorrhoids / piles. Hemorrhoids are categorized into External hemorrhoids and Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids reside far back into the anus where there are few pain sensing nerves so that they cannot be seen or felt. Their presence may only be known when they bleed. Sometimes internal hemorrhoids can prolapse or extrude out of the anal sphincter. They appear as moist pink pads that recede into the rectum on their own or can be pushed back. when internal hemorrhoids prolapse, they can hurt

External hemorrhoids lie within the anus and generally hurt. If an external hemorrhoid prolapses, it can be seen and felt. Sometimes blood clots can form in an external hemorroid causing a very painful condition called thrombosis.

Who can get affected by hemorrhoids?

About half of the US population will get affected by hemorrhoids at some point or other. They generally occur between ages 20 and 50.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

• Red blood from the anus that shows on tissue or bowel movement
• Pain or sensitivity during bowel movement
• Superficial varicose veins are present themselves as bulging, ropelike, bluish veins
• Painful swelling or lump near the anus
• Itching at the anus
• Mucous anal discharge

Hemorrhoids are generally not dangerous. However you should call your doctor if you experience anal bleeding for the first time, since other than hemorrhoids it can also be caused by colon polyps, colitis, Crohn's disease and colorectal cancer. Also see your doctor if you have chronic bleeding from hemorrhoids as that can cause anemia.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Extreme abdominal pressure caused by straining while passing stools, obesity, pregnancy, standing or sitting for long periods of time, holding breath while doing a physical activity, vomiting, coughing, sneezing can cause hemorrhoids. A diet low in fiber can cause hemorrhoids owing to straining caused by constipation and hard stools.

How are hemorrhoids treated?

Generally hemorrhoids can be treated with herbal remedies

Internal hemorrhoids can be treated with injections

Prolapsed hemorrhoids can be removed with a rubber-band ligation

Cauterization and surgery are other methods of removing hemorrhoids
It should be noted that treatment of hemorrhoids cannot prevent them from recurring so it is important to adopt measures for future prevention.

What are some natural ways to prevent and treat hemorrhoids?

Do not sit for long stretches at a time. Take a break and move around once every hour.

Do not sit on the toilet for more than 5 minutes.

Breathe evenly while performing any physically demanding task. Holding your breath while exerting leads to pressure build up.

Drink plenty of water.

Take warm sitz baths.

People who have a high-fiber diet generally do not get hemorrhoids.

Wear support stockings.

While sitting or resting for long periods of time, elevate your legs.

The ayurvedic formulation Pilex contains 9 herbs and minerals including Guggul and Shilajit. It supports rectal health and provides relief. Pilex gel soothes the irritated area and provides topical relief.

References:

The Medical Advisor - The complete guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments

Pub Med

Himalaya Herbals Company

Products for Easy Bowel Movements

Herbolax
Herbolax facilitates smooth bowel movements

Triphala
Maintains healthy digestive tract, helps in maintaining regularity

Boswellia
Helps to soothe digestive tract & reduce swelling