What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are most commonly caused by straining to pass a bowel movement. They may also be the result of constipation, diarrhea, or an anal infection. People who sit for long periods of time may also experience hemorrhoids.
Pregnant women and women who have recently given birth are prone to developing hemorrhoids as a result of the increased pressure on the abdomen by the fetus or straining during labor. The hemorrhoids usually resolve with time after childbirth.
What are the risk factors for hemorrhoids?
A number of factors increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Not all people with risk factors will get hemorrhoids. Risk factors for hemorrhoids include:
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Bowel obstruction
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Crohn’s disease (inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the intestine)
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Fecal impaction
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Food intolerances (difficulty digesting certain foods without symptoms of a food allergy)
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Inflammatory bowel disease (includes Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS; digestive discomfort that does not cause intestinal damage or serious disease)
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Liver disease
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Pregnancy
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Receptive anal sexual intercourse
Reducing your risk of hemorrhoids
A diet high in fiber and with plenty of liquids can promote softer bowel movements, which can aid in healing hemorrhoids. You may be able to lower your risk of hemorrhoids by:
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Avoiding anal intercourse
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Avoiding irritation of the rectum or anus
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Drinking plenty of liquids
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Eating a diet high in soluble fiber
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Keeping the anal area clean and dry
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Taking an over-the-counter stool softener, such as psyllium (Fiberall, Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel)
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Wiping the anus gently with a cotton pad or moistened cloth after a bowel movement
INTRODUCTION
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, bulging veins in the anus or rectum. They are called external hemorrhoids if they occur outside the anus, or internal hemorrhoids if they are located inside the anus. Hemorrhoids are extremely common, and the risk of developing hemorrhoids increases with age. They are also common in pregnant women and in women who have recently given birth. They are usually caused...
Read more about hemorrhoids introduction
SYMPTOMS
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of hemorrhoids include anal itching or pain, particularly when you are seated. You may also experience pain during your bowel movements, notice blood in your stool, or have a tender, hard lump near the anus....
Read more about hemorrhoids symptoms
TREATMENTS
How are hemorrhoids treated?
A diet high in fiber along with plenty of liquids can promote softer bowel movements and prevent strain-induced hemorrhoids. Your health care provider may suggest frequent warm baths to help hemorrhoids heal....
Read more about hemorrhoids treatments
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