How Do I Know If I Have Hemorrhoids?
This is such a touchy subject. It is very similar to men and
prostate problems, people just don't want anyone poking and
prodding around there and men are the worst!
Even though it is said as much as half of the over 50 population
of the United States has the condition there are only about
500,000 reported annually. The numbers for the overall
population are 1 of every 25 people with most of these between
45 and 65.
So how do I know if I have hemorrhoids? One the fastest
indicators will be the appearance of bright red blood on toilet
paper, that will scare you! It could even be rectal cancer, but
it is far more likely to be hemorrhoids. So let's take a closer
look at symptoms.
So? What are the hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are like cushions and that is what they look like.
They contain blood vessels, small muscles, and very elastic
fibers and are also called piles by some people.
How do know if I have hemorrhoids or something else?
Let's look at a couple of hypotheticals. Someone goes to the
doctor complaining of rectal discomfort with occasional blood on
the tissue and itching in the anal area. This is more than
likely an internal hemorrhoid. Another patient is complaining of
severe rectal pain as well as prolapsed tissue in the anal area.
This is probably going to be external hemorrhoids with the pain
coming from a blood clot in the hemorrhoidal tissues.
There are four degrees of internal hemorrhoids. It may be
interesting for you to know because first, second and sometime
third degree can be treated by banding only. Fourth degree and
sometime third degree requires surgery. Do not forget
non-hemorrhoid causes of symptoms. The option to check with your
doctor is worthwhile because there could be other problems,
including cancer or anal fissure. (By the way for anal fissure
medical treatment alone may heal it in 90% of cases).
To treat itching or discomfort you may use suppositories,
ointments, creams, and gels. These products contain protectant
and anesthetics (pain relievers). Local anesthetics numb the
area and decrease burning and itching.