10 Tips on Hemorrhoids | Health Tips
1. Hemorrhoids are masses of swollen veins in the lower anus (internal hemorrhoids) or in the anus (external hemorrhoids). 10 Tips on Hemorrhoids
2. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include: Bright red rectal bleeding
Staining of undergarments with mucus
3. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include:
Pain and itching when disturbed by constipation or diarrhea
Difficulty with hygiene
4. Hemorrhoids are:
- Straining
- Workload (lifting, etc.)
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation
- Passing hard, dry, small stools
- Laxative abuse
5. Don’t assume rectal bleeding is from hemorrhoids. See your doctor to rule out cancer or other diseases.
6. To prevent or manage hemorrhoids, increase your fiber and fluid intake. consider adding a fiber supplement
7. Avoid straining at stool or sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.
8. Clean the external rectal area gently with soap and water after a bowel movement.
9. Try a topical cream or sitz bath to reduce inflammation.
10. See your doctor if you don’t improve.
10 Tips on Hemorrhoids
Diagnosis
Your doctor may be able to look at external hemorrhoids. Diagnosing internal hemorrhoids may include an exam of your anus and rectum.
Digital testing. He or she feels something unusual, such as growth.
Visual Inspection. Because internal hemorrhoids are often soft to the touch during a rectal exam, your doctor may examine your colon and lower part of the rectum with an anoscope, proctoscope, or sigmoidoscope.
- You have risk factors for colorectal cancer
- You are middle-aged and have not had a recent colonoscopy
