Hemorrhoids: Causes and Treatments

Hemorrhoids are a common and painful condition that affects a large segment of the population. Approximately half of the general population experiences hemorrhoids before reaching the age of 50, and the condition becomes even more common with age.

Hemorrhoids are essentially varicose veins that occur in the rectum and anus area. They form as a result of excessive pressure in the rectum, which leads to swelling or rupturing of veins in the rectum. The result is a painful condition characterized by swelling, burning, itching, and bleeding.

Causes of Hemorrhoids
Once a person starts having problems with hemorrhoids, the problem usually becomes chronic, and worsens over time. Hemorrhoids are frequently brought on by a variety of ordinary activities, which is the reason they are such a common ailment in the general population.

Sitting too much can lead to the development of hemorrhoids. Unfortunately, many jobs require a great deal of sitting. People whose jobs or lifestyles are particularly sedentary have an increased risk of developing hemorrhoids, and should take care to regularly stand up and move around.

Gastrointestinal issues can also lead to the development of hemorrhoids. For example, constipation, diarrhea, hard stools, and straining to move the bowels can result in hemorrhoids. Consuming a healthy diet that is high in fiber, drinking a sufficient amount of water, and exercising regularly can help prevent hemorrhoids. These good diet and exercise habits are likely reduce the occurrence of constipation, and result in softer stools that can pass without straining.

Hemorrhoids often develop during pregnancy, but heal following childbirth. Other factors that may lead to hemorrhoids are severe coughing episodes and heavy lifting.