Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Bleeding Hemorrhoids

By Heather-Jane Hunter

Just about everyone knows what a hemorrhoid is, but what are bleeding hemorrhoids? Is it the same, or are bleeding hemorrhoids worse? This article will explain what bleeding hemorrhoids are and its characteristics, including how it can be caused and what symptoms they have.

What consists of a Hemorrhoid?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that are in or around the rectum and anal canal. There are many causes of hemorrhoids. Some are caused by stress, being pregnant, smoking, drinking, and the number one cause is constipation. They can start off being very mild and if not treated they will become severe and even turn into bleeding hemorrhoids. There all literally millions of people every year who get hemorrhoids and are treatable with home remedies. Some home treatment options include sitz baths, over the counter creams and ointments, and by eating healthy. If you eat more fiber you can avoid flare ups that are caused by constipation. However if you do nothing to treat them then you will need professional medical treatment. This can include a very painful, costly procedure called a hemorrhoidectomy. This is a surgical procedure that usually is done at the last resort when all else fails.

What are Bleeding Hemorrhoids?

Bleeding Hemorrhoids can be external or internal and involves blood coming from the hemorrhoid. These are serious forms of hemorrhoids and needs to be seen by a doctor right a way. Your symptoms will depend on whether it's an internal or external hemorrhoid. They usually will include blood oozing out of the affected area. If you find blood in your stool more than likely you have bleeding hemorrhoids. Some times weak rectal walls are to blame for bleeding hemorrhoids. This condition will cause emotional stress.

Bleeding hemorrhoids can be painful and scary at first to those who suffer from them, and they always require the attention of a qualified physician. Knowing the symptoms and causes of bleeding hemorrhoids is the first step to obtaining relief from the discomfort caused by this affliction.

The symptoms of Bleeding Hemorrhoids

Normally the symptoms are the same in both types of hemorrhoids, except with the bleeding hemorrhoids they bleed of course! The first symptom you should see is the blood in the stool or on the toilet paper when wiping. Don't ignore the blood because some other serious medical conditions include bleeding in the anal like colon cancer. Other symptoms can include anal itching, sharp pains and oozing blood. Hard lumps are also a sign you have bleeding hemorrhoids. Mucus that makes you itch extremely badly is another symptom of bleeding hemorrhoids. If you currently have these symptoms you need to get help right a way. You may only experience one or more of these symptoms but over time they certainly will get worst if you don't seek medical help right a way.

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