Hemorrhoids are a common disorder. They’re caused by veins in the anus swelling up and causing discomfort to the sufferer. While the swollen veins can feel painful, they’re usually not considered a serious problem. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external, with varying symptoms. Both types can also occur at the same time. The treatment for both these types can vary.

There’s no hard known evidence to determine what causes hemroids. However, it’s believed that an excess of pelvic pressure is a large contributing factor. If the tissue in the anus swells up too much, the increased level of pressure can cause hemorrhoids. For this reason, stomach problems that result in diarrhea can be a contributing factor to hemorrhoids. Another contributing factor to hemorrhoids can be pregnancy. Pregnant women have larger strain on their pelvic muscles as well. Obesity is also believed to be a contributing factor.

The symptoms of hemorrhoids vary, but in general they include swelling and bleeding around and in the anus. There may also be itching. In general, internal hemorrhoids don’t hurt, but external hemorrhoids can be very painful. A person can have internal hemorrhoids without even realizing it. In the case of this type of hemorrhoid, the biggest indicating factor can be a certain level of blood found on the toilet paper. External and internal hemorrhoids look different as well. Internal hemorrhoids involve the walls of the anal cavity close to the sphincter. External hemorrhoids usually surround the perimeter of the anus. A lot of people can be embarrassed due to the nature of hemorrhoids, but they’re common in many people. A regular medical doctor or proctologist can diagnose hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoid prevention is fairly simple. Straining the muscles of the anus is one of the ways many people get hemorrhoids. Eating a diet high in fiber can relax the tension around this area. Treatment for hemorrhoids is generally a pretty simple process. There are suppositories that can be bought over the counter to reduce the swelling. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Usually these are only done in severe cases of serious hemorrhoids. The surgery usually removes the hemorrhoids, then repositions the tissue to cover the affected area. Sometimes hemorrhoids go away on their own. Hemorrhoid may be an embarrassing problem for some, but they’re not the most painful thing in the world to deal with. They usually clear up without problems during treatment from home.