Hemorrhoids symptoms

Hemorrhoids are something which everyone wants to avoid encountering. Unfortunately according to a report, more than 50% of people have to suffer this nagging disorder at some point of their lives. The medical condition is quite often termed as "piles". Hemorrhoids or piles occur due to dilatation or swelling of blood vessels within the lower intestine regions. There is actually a covering of blood vessels and a cross-section of veins within the lower intestine walls. Excessive pressure exerted on the walls result in inflammation and enlargement of a vein or veins resulting in hemorrhoids. The wall muscles are weakened due to pressure leaving a sac-like bulge. This condition is actually called internal hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are to be found below the skin externally near the opening region.

People do have the common experiences of hemorrhoids when they strain during bowel movements. Sometimes during the early stages of the condition, when hemorrhoids sizes are small and there is no pain, it is usually difficult to be aware that you are afflicted with this condition. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms become more or less recognizable. When bleeding occurs, it is but quite natural to be unnerved. Since we are constantly being told to be watchful of our bodies showing any unnatural signs, the bleeding may bring in lot of apprehensions about us being afflicted with other serious deadly illnesses.

A symptom relating to external hemorrhoids include presence of any hard lump or painful swelling, externally close to the lower intestine. This is the region where blood has clotted. This is indicative of hemorrhoid of the thrombosed, external variety. Additionally, excessive rubbing or straining near this region may increase irritation. It may also be accompanied with itching and bleeding thus producing symptoms in a vicious cycle. There can even be draining of mucus aggravating itching.

The major symptoms associated with internal hemorrhoids are:

• Itching: This is the most annoying part of internal hemorrhoids. This type of itch is something which cannot be immediately attended to since this is internal. It is commonly experienced a couple of minutes subsequent to passing of stools. A special cream may be applied to bring in temporary relief. Itching is caused due to the hemorrhoids seeping mucus. This brings in skin irritation in the area close to the hemorrhoids. However lower intestine itching is quite a common phenomenon. It may be caused due to inadequate personal hygiene, or by some harsh detergents and soaps. Itching should not be taken as the sure sign of internal hemorrhoids unless it is accompanied by other signs and symptoms.
• Discomfort: There will be some discomfort immediately subsequent to passing stools. The sensation is more like as if there has been an incomplete bowel movement and you feel the urge to go for another one immediately. This is on account of the hemorrhoid protruding towards the base of the large intestine. The bigger the size of the hemorrhoid, greater will be the amount of discomfort experienced. However, not all sensations of incomplete bowel movements can be attributed to presence of internal hemorrhoids. Sometimes faulty dietary habits may also precipitate the discomforting feeling. Intake of food which contains excessive fat and inadequate fiber may be the cause. However if the sensation persists for a long period of time it is better to check with a health practitioner.
• Skin irritation: Inflammation of the skin near the hemorrhoid area will result in irritation of the skin surrounding it. When large hemorrhoids are present protruding through the opening, skin irritation may also occur.
• Bleeding: A little quantity of blood on your stool or toilet paper is a common symptom of internal hemorrhoids. Bleeding is not profuse, and it has a fresh, bright red appearance. This is the blood that has been excreted from a vein.
• Pain: Excruciatingly painful symptoms are common to internal hemorrhoids. The hemorrhoids bulge out and possibly get squashed by the muscles of the lower intestine. You may experience mild to uncontrollable pain in accordance with the severity of the condition. When the pain reaches an extreme level, it signals stoppage of blood supply in the lower intestine calling for an urgent procedure.

Different situations precipitate the chances of developing hemorrhoids. Some of these are bouts of constipation and diarrhea, obesity, family history of hemorrhoids and faulty eating habits. Lifting of heavy objects, prolonged sitting or standing, and straining during childbirth are also situations that can give birth to hemorrhoids symptoms.

However, there is no reason to lose heart if you happen to develop the symptoms of hemorrhoids. The condition is completely treatable. Contrary to the common belief, there is no direct connection between hemorrhoids and bowel cancer. Mostly hemorrhoids disappear in the natural course by improving general lifestyle and food habits.