Hemorrhoids is a medical condition that affects the lower rectum and anus. They are also known as piles and are made up of groupings of blood vessels and tissue that have become inflammed. When there is too much pressure on the walls of the anus the muscle that usually supports the vessels becomes weak. They can then enlarge and are no longer supported.
When this occurs a small sac of dilated veins develops within the rectal canal or underneath the skin surrounding the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are not visible to the naked eye because they are located deep within the anal canal. About the only way to discover them is to notice the bleeding. If one of these hemorrhoids comes through the anus while having a bowel movement, it is termed a prolapsed hemorrhoid. This causes a lot of pain and can be really hard to push back in. External hemorrhoids are visible to the naked eye and have a bluish color. There are not usually any symptoms with this type unless they become inflammed. When this happens they can bleed, are painful and reddish in color. Rarely, a blood clot will form inside one. This is called a thrombosed external hemorrhoid. The resulting tiny mass, about the size of a BB, is extremely painful.
When you go to the doctor they will perform various tests based on the reported symptoms. If internal hemorrhoids are suspected an anoscope will be used to view the inside of the rectum. This is simply a skinny tube with a light on it. They might do other testing to make sure that there is no other cause for the bleeding. A colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are the most common tests for viewing deep inside the rectum.
Men or women are prone to getting hemorrhoids at any stage in their lives. They are more common in older people or females who have beared children. It is also not uncommon to see them appear during pregnancy. You are more likely to get them if your family has a history of them. When you are having bowel movements it is important not to push too hard because this is one of the biggest causes of hemorrhoids. Also, make sure that you get some help when lifting heavy things.
Using herbs can help to make your bowel movements easier. Aloe ferox can help you a lot when you are feeling constipated. It is one of the most renowned stool softeners available. Dandelion and Passiflora Incarnata are also well known for their positive effects on the digestive system and muscles in the bowel.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health, emotional ailments & conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/