Hemorrhoids are a common problem, so much so that 50% of adults who have reached the age of 50 will have had the misfortune of experiencing them along with all the pain, suffering and even a little embarrassment thrown in for good measure that is associated with them.
Hemorrhoids (the correct pronunciation is HEM-uh-roids and are also referred to as "piles") are veins that have become swollen in and around the anal orifice (external) or inside the rectum itself (internal).
If you happen to be in the unfortunate 50% that are afflicted with them, then it would be a good idea to learn a little about them and familiarize yourself with some ways to treat hemorrhoid problems at home.
There are various ways one can acquire a hemorrhoid problem, but there is evidence that the those who do are likely genetically pre-disposed to getting them.
If you are in this unlucky group the veins that reside in that nether region are susceptible to becoming enlarged when undue force or pressure is exerted on them.
Probably the most common way this can happen is from the over-exertion that arises from a feeling of being constipated.
The irony is that too much pressure can be caused from diarrhea also.
Giving birth is another major cause of hemorrhoids in women what with the forcing that is required to move the baby along through and eventually out of the birth canal.
Lifting heavy objects off the floor without proper technique or help can also cause these veins to bulge.
Non activity can also contribute to their occurrence such as being seated for prolonged periods on a sedentary job.
They are quite common in people who are obese because all that extra weight puts extreme pressure in the area also.
However you managed to become afflicted with a hemorrhoid problem, they are certainly no fun, but there are many ways to deal with them and reduce their discomfort and even be rid of them altogether.
If you have external hemorrhoids you know it by the discomfort of the pain and itching they cause, plus you will be able to feel that there is something extra down there that was not there before.
Another tell-tale sign that you may have a hemorrhoid problem is bleeding.
External hemorrhoids can be made to bleed from wiping after a bowel movement.
Bleeding from an irritated external hemorrhoid will be bright red in color and is not serious.
However when an internal hemorrhoid is bleeding it could manifest itself by showing up on the toilet paper after wiping oneself, or around the eliminated feces in the toilet bowl.
You may even observe them dripping blood into the toilet.
The bleeding from these internal types is most often painless and also bright red in color depending on how close in proximity they are to the anus.
However, if the blood is of a deeper, bluish hue than this could be indicative a much more serious problem higher up in the rectum or digestive tract and should be checked out by a physician immediately.
One of the best ways to treat irritated external hemorrhoids is to take a Sitz bath at least twice a day or more as needed.
This is a type of bath specifically designed to sit the posterior only in and soak with warm to hot water.
The healing benefits of this type of bathe can be greatly enhanced by the addition of Epsom Salts.
It is a good idea to take some form of analgesic pain killer to relieve the ache.
Applying topical creams or inserting suppositories for can help to shrink the swollen veins.
If you are constipated then a laxative or some form of stool softener can contribute to ending the straining that occurs when attempting to move one's bowels.
Along those lines it is beneficial to add more fiber to the diet as a long term means of ending constipation.
Getting some regular non-strenuous exercise like a daily brisk walk is also a good way to ensure regularity and easier bowel movement to eliminate the straining that is the number one cause of hemorrhoids.