Hemorrhoids are swollen tissues that contain veins and that are located in the wall of the rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids may become inflamed, develop a blood clot (thrombus), bleed, or become enlarged and protrude. Hemorrhoids that remain in the anus are called internal hemorrhoids; those that protrude outside the anus are called external hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids may develop from repeated straining during bowel movements [when defecating], and Constipation may make straining worse liver diseases increases the blood pressure in the portal veins, sometimes leading to the formation of Hemorrhoids.
Symptoms and Diagnosis Hemorrhoids can bleed, typically after a bowel movement, producing blood-streaked stool or toilet paper. The blood may turn water in the toilet bowl red. However, the amount of blood is usually small, and hemorrhoids rarely lead to severe blood loss or anemia. Hemorrhoids that protrude from the anus may need to be pushed back gently with a finger, or they may go back by themselves.
A hemorrhoid may swell and become painful if its surface is rubbed raw or if a blood clot forms in it. Less commonly, hemorrhoids may discharge mucus and create a feeling that the rectum isn't completely emptied. Itching in the anal region isn’t a symptom of hemorrhoid, but it may develop because the painful area is difficult to. keep clean. A doctor can readily diagnose swollen, painful hemorrhoids by inspecting the anus end rectum.
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited