HEMORRHOIDS

Hemorrhoids, which are also called piles, is a condition of weakened and swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. Hemorrhoids can be divided into two types: Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the anus or lower rectum; external hemorrhoids lie outside the anal opening. Sometimes a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid and inflammation and a painful lump develops. This condition is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid.

Hemorrhoids are a very common medical complaint. Men are more likely than women to suffer from hemorrhoids that are serious enough to require professional treatment.

During a bowel movement, veins in the anus are protected from damage by expanding to drain blood away from the area.

The veins are normally somewhat elastic, and they snap back to their regular size after defecation is finished. However, repeated laptop batteries straining due to constipation or hardened stools causes the veins to be swollen and stretched out of shape.

Aging, obesity, pregnancy, chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea, excessive use of enemas or laxatives, straining during bowel movements, and spending too much time on the toilet are all factors that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. In some people there is also a genetic tendency to have fragile veins laptop battery that are prone to developing hemorrhoids and varicose veins .

The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood in the toilet bowl or on one's feces or toilet paper. When hemorrhoids remain inside the anus they are almost never painful, but they can protrude outside the anus and become irritated and sore. Such hemorrhoids are called prolapsed hemorrhoids. Small external hemorrhoids usually do not produce symptoms. Larger ones, however, can be painful and interfere with sitting, walking, defecating, and cleaning the anal area after a bowel movement.

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids begins with a visual examination of the anus, followed by an internal manual examination. The doctor may also insert an anoscope, a small tube with a light that can be used to view the anal canal.

An herbal sitz bath using witch hazel , Hamamelis virginiana, may shrink hemorrhoids and ease discomfort. Witch hazel can also be wiped directly over external hemorrhoids. In addition, an ointment formulated of plantain, Plantago spp. and yarrow, Achillea millefolium, will reportedly reduce pain and swelling.

Chinese herbal medicine may be formulated to treat Spleen Qi deficiency or heat in the lower burner. Hemp seeds are recommended for constipation. Daily helpings of foods that soften the stools and make them easier to pass is recommended by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM); examples of these include carrots, broccoli, dried persimmons and unripe figs. Acupuncture and acupressure are also recommended.

Homeopathy offers a gentle treatment solution for hemorrhoids. Suggested remedies include Aeschulus hippocastanum 30c, Hamamelis virginiana 6c, and Calcarea fluorica 6c. Homeopathic and herbal rectal suppositories are available.