Thursday, April 22, 2004

Hemorrhoids

What is going on in the body?

The blood vessels around the anus swell and may bleed or cause other symptoms. The exact cause of hemorrhoids is not always clear.

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

You may have hemorrhoids for years without them causing any health problems. If you do have symptoms, they most often include: �a lump around the anus �mucus-like discharge from the rectum �rectal bleeding, which may be seen as red streaks on the toilet paper or blood in the toilet bowl �rectal pain and itching

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Hemorrhoids are related to dilated blood vessels, but the exact cause is not always clear. Some types of hemorrhoids run in families. Other factors that increase your risk for hemorrhoids include: �alcoholism �anal intercourse �chronic diarrhea �cancer of the rectum or colon �a diet that lacks fiber �frequent coughing and sneezing �liver disease, such as cirrhosis �loss of muscle tone in the rectum due to aging and rectal surgery �obesity �jobs that require standing or sitting for long periods of time �pregnancy �straining due to constipation

What can be done to prevent the condition?

One of the best ways to avoid hemorrhoids is to prevent the pressure and straining that come from constipation. To lessen the impact of your hemorrhoids, take these actions: �avoid sitting in one place for long periods of time �drink six to eight glasses of fluid each day �eat a diet high in fiber �exercise regularly �limit the time you spend on the toilet �maintain a healthy body weight

Many times, hemorrhoids are related to liver disease caused by alcohol abuse. It's important to avoid alcohol intake or, if you must drink, to do so only in moderation.

No comments:

Post a Comment