Hemorrhoids are very painful and uncomfortable. This is caused by increased pressure in the pelvic and rectal area.  This condition then appears when blood vessels in the rectum start to swell. This happens due to a number of reasons like persistent diarrhea and constipation, being overweight, during pregnancy and labor or some other health conditions.   Because of the swelling, there is a tendency of protrusion in the anus and can cause much discomfort especially during defecation.

There are two types of hemorrhoids; internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are more common and less problematic since it can just disappear. This type of hemorrhoid grows far inside the rectal area wherein it is not possible for you to see or feel, though sometimes they can enlarge, causing them to protrude outside the anus. They usually withdraw internally themselves. External hemorrhoids are the most painful type and they can be felt and seen by the one who suffers it. They can possibly come to a stage as a thrombosed hemorrhoid. This type of hemorrhoid develops outside the body. This occurs when ruptured veins and blood clots start to happen. Its appearance is purple or bluish and it causes anal bleeding. This is a serious condition that needs immediate attention.

You may detect that you have hemorrhoids because of symptoms that are present. The most common symptoms are bleeding when defecating, pain, and itching. For internal hemorrhoids, you may find light streaks of blood after bowel movement. As for external hemorrhoids, extreme rectal pains can be felt. Blood can form into a painful lump or it is thrombosed. Hemorrhoids can be itchy because of excretion of mucus that can cause irritability to the skin. It is likely to feel uncomfortable during bowel movement and having the urge to do it more even when done. The large hemorrhoids are the ones that feel more painful because they tend to be squeezed by the muscles inside the anus.

If the condition of your hemorrhoids is not that serious, consider home treatments. To relieve pain and itching, apply ice for 10 minutes several times a day. After that, apply warm compress for another 10- 20 minutes. Sit in the bathtub filled with warm water just enough to cover the anal area. You can also apply moist heat several times a day. There may be creams that your doctor can prescribe for relief and treatment of hemorrhoids. There are also ointments and creams that can be bought over the counter, such as petroleum jelly and zinc oxide. Other than these, enough rest is duly needed to lessen the pressure from the inflamed area. Sleeping on your stomach with a pillow under your hips can decrease the swelling. Do not lift heavy objects or sit and stand for a long time. Cotton underwear is advisable to wear to avoid moisture that can cause further irritation. But in serious cases, where medical help is needed, your doctor can advise you of the best way to treat it or prescribe the right medication depending on each case. They can be removed through surgery called hemorrhoidectomy. This type of surgery is done to treat large hemorrhoids.

There are always preventive measures to avoid hemorrhoids. It is best to have a healthy bowel movement and avoid constipation. This can be done by eating foods high in fiber, drinking a lot of water every day, avoiding too much caffeine or alcohol, exercise properly or just try to do healthy activities each day.