The symptoms of a Prolapsed hemorrhoids are as follows: a second degree Prolapsed Hemorrhoid retracts of its own accord, a third degree Prolapsed Hemorrhoid is one that can be manually reinserted, while a fourth degree Prolapsed Hemorrhoid is one that remains externalized and cannot be reinserted.  In the most extreme cases, a fourth degree Prolapsed Hemorrhoid becomes either Strangulated or Thrombosed, in addition to its resistance to being manually reinserted into the anus, after which it spontaneously remerges.

Prolapsed Hemorrhoid Symptoms may include mild itching or burning, slight to temperate bleeding, or in more extreme cases, produce severe pain by virtue of its becoming an inflamed mass of externalized tissue.  Other common prolapsed hemorrhoid symptoms include either red blood in the stool or residual red blood on toilet paper, or an inability to complete a bowel movement.  It should be noted that blackened stool or actual pain caused by the act of defecating is not typically symptomatic of a hemorrhoidal condition.  In the presence of these last two symptoms, a doctor should examine the individual suffering the symptoms forthwith.  Essentially, all masses of tissue that are externalized outside of the anus are regarded as external hemorrhoids, with the exception being the prolapsed hemorrhoid, which originate as an internal condition but extend outside of the rectum as they progress.  Prolapsed Hemorrhoids have a variety of causes.  Straining during bowel movements (caused by either diarrhea or constipation) is a typical culprit, as is hypertension, obesity,  pregnancy, and cigarette smoking.  Each of the foregoing causes has specific explanations, which are as follows:

Straining during a bowel movement places pressure on the walls of the anus, thereby weakening the rectal tissue of the anus and making it susceptible to a hemorrhoidal breach.

Constipation during pregnancy is often the result of water retention, which can induce strenuous bowel movements and thus weaken the walls of the anus, in addition to causing hypertension, which is not an uncommon condition during pregnancy.

Obesity can be a factor in causing Hemorrhoids due to an increase in the amount of pressure exerted on rectal veins, in addition to attending symptoms such as reduced muscle tone and poor posture, all of which also put additional stress on rectal veins.

Cigarette smoking during bowel movements have been linked to not only an increased risk in producing Hemorrhoids, but are also believed to be responsible for causing severe bleeding of the veins in the anus and the rectal area.

Causes and Prevention of Prolapsed Hemorrhoids

Prolapsed Hemorrhoids are caused by a myriad of reasons, and thus their prevention varies.  However, there are standard preventative measures that are typically suggested as a means for either reducing the risk of developing them, or treating them should they occur.  These measures include consuming more fluids and dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, cereals or muffins that are high in fiber, in addition to taking fiber supplements).  The consumption of fiber and fluids reduces the strain that occurs during bowel movements, which in turn act as agitating factors that can either cause or prolong the condition.  Reducing the time and duration of a bowel movement is also a means of reducing the risk of developing Prolapsed Hemorrhoids, and is a practice that can also assist in the healing process.  Elsewhere it has been suggested by doctors, and reported by patients, that tight undergarments can be a contributing factor to irritating the condition, as can the presence of weak muscle tone in the anal region.  Additionally, women frequently report an increase in the development of Hemorrhoids, or Hemorrhoidal irritation during periods of menstruation, which may be alleviated by washing the affected area with cool or warm soapy water, which can also assist in reducing itching and irritation, and possibly stave off a general worsening of symptoms.

Prolapsed Hemorrhoid Treatment

Prolapsed Hemorrhoids, which are distinguished by an external lump of inflamed tissue protruding from the anus, can be treated with a variety of interventions, depending on their severity.  Inflammation can be reduced by bathing in warm water, which assists the blood vessels in the rectal area to relax.  Steady use of medicated ointments and creams during the initial onset of symptoms can also achieve some relief, and may be a deterrent against increased inflammation or a worsening of the condition.

Prolapsed Hemorrhoid Treatment is typically handled surgically because of the inherent severity of the condition and the nature of its symptoms. In such cases, where the hemorrhoid has externalized, a Hemorroidectomy may be performed.  The procedure consists of surgically excising, or removing, the hemorrhoid, and is noted for the long duration of its recovery time and the severity of pain that accompanies it.  The hemorroidectomy is only recommended for grade IV Hemorrhoids, and has been linked with cases of incontinence later in life.  A Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy is a procedure whose objective is to resect the tissue that is in proximity to what is referred to as the dentate line (the dentate line is the region in the anal canal  that resides above the area where an individual experiences pain).  The Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy works by reducing blood flow to the inflamed tissue, thereby starving the hemorrhoid.  It is a less painful procedure than a Hemorrhoidectomy, and is favored treatment by doctors and patients because of the shorter recovery time that is necessary to otherwise treat a Prolapsed Hemorrhoid.

Alternative Treatments for Prolapsed Hemorrhoids

Prolapsed Hemorrhoids can also be treated with a variety of alternative remedies, which include both preventative practices (usually dietary), as well as medicinally holistic treatment measures.  For example, consuming bulk fiber products like psyllium seed husk and plantain is believed to produce softer stool, which is easier to pass and thus less likely to induce new Hemorrhoids or inflame preexisting ones.  Adopting a squatting position when making a bowel movement is thought to ease stress to the anal walls and aid in easier defecation.  For Individuals whose poor circulation is the cause of their hemorrhoids, doctors sometimes recommend using a pillow to raise the legs while sleeping to assist in eliminating altogether the presence of external hemorrhoids. The use of soothing compounds and substances such as Witch hazel, Cranesbill, Aloe Vera and honey are advocated and favored by some patients because they are regarded as natural or more organic than compounds such as Preparation H, and provide relief for some of the symptoms associated with the condition.  Prolapsed Hemorrhoids have also been reported to respond to certain dietary interventions, such as Butcher’s Broom, Horse-Chestnut, as well as bioflavanoids.  Because compounds such as Butcher’s Broom contain naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents such as ruscogenins, they are often sought out by patients who wish to try an organic approach to addressing the symptoms that attend Prolapsed Hemorrhoids.

Written by, David Gilbert

© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center

Warning Signs of Hemorrhoids are usually characterized by the variety of hemorrhoid that is developing.  Hemorrhoids manifest as either internal hemorrhoids, or external hemorrhoids, with each scenario presenting a particular set of symptoms and remedies.  Also known as piles or emerods, hemorrhoids occur when veins in the anus enlarge and breach the anal wall

Hemorrhoids develop on a continuum of severity, and can manifest in distinct ways.  Each variety of the condition has its own symptoms and respective treatments, and each condition is subject to similar preventative measures.  The purpose of this article is to acquaint you with five warning signs that frequently indicate you may have developed a hemorrhoidal condition, in addition to what are the general causes and symptoms, and standard treatment options associated with resolving hemorrhoidal flair-ups.

Hemorrhoids occur when excessive pressure is exerted on the veins of the anus during bowel movements.  In the course of healthy digestive functions, the tissue that forms the anal wall acts as a receptacle for blood during bowel movements, which assists the body to regulate the flow of fecal matter.  Over-straining can cause veins to stay enlarged, which may result in an eventual tear in the anal wall, leading to the formation of the hemorrhoid.  Other conditions such as chronic diarrhea or the attendant pressure on the pelvic region women experience during pregnancy can also contribute to the formation hemorrhoids.

•Bleeding during bowel movements and residual blood deposited on toilet paper after wiping the anus.

•Itching, burning, rectal discomfort, and pain associated with cleaning the infected area.

•Blood on the surface of the stool, mucosal residue on toilet paper following wiping.

•The sensation of fullness after having had a bowel movement.

•Severe pain if the hemorrhoid is bulging and subsequently squeezed by the anal muscles.

Hemorrhoids are typically treated first with some course of home hemorrhoid treatment.  There are a number of strategies designed to address hemorrhoidal flair-ups, starting with changes to one’s diet.  Increasing the amount of fiber in one’s diet, with either dietary fiber or bulk fiber, is the first course of action typically suggested, which also includes increasing the amount of water one consumes as well as taking in greater quantities of fruits, grains, and vegetables.  Using stool softeners to achieve easier bowel movements and applying ointments to reduce the itching associated with hemorrhoids are also common recommendations, in addition to bathing in warm water three times a day, which helps to retard symptoms such as swelling and burning.  In the event one’s hemorrhoids are of a more severe degree, a doctor’s intervention might be required.  In the event one’s condition does not respond to the remedies suggested, discuss with a doctor what other courses of action are available and best suited to your situation.

In the event one is experiencing any or all of these symptoms there is a likelihood that hemorrhoids have developed.  However, do not assume that hemorrhoids are present, and if possible consult with a doctor to ensure the symptoms are not the result of another condition or disorder, some of which present symptoms similar to hemorrhoidal symptoms.  Depending on the kind on hemorrhoids one has, its severity and the attending symptoms, a treatment plan will likely be created to help address the specific situation.  Baring in mind the importance of prevention through both dietary changes and alterations to lifestyle, being well informed is the most efficient means to properly responding to the Warning Signs of Hemorrhoids.

David Gilbert received his BA from U.C.L.A. He is currently doing graduate work in psychology at the California Graduate Institute, LA ,CA. Throughout his career in the mental health field he has worked clinically with several populations, and also contributed to academic works whose topics address both health and mental health issues

© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center

references

[i] MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Hemorrhoid surgery – series: Normal anatomy

Mayo Clinic. Causes of Hemorrhoids. – http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hemorrhoids/DS00096/DSECTION=3.

[iii] Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hemorrhoids-during-pregnancy/AN01720.

Hemorrhoid symptoms can be a direct result of increased pressure in the pelvic region. Growing pressure causes vein enlargement and inflammation resulting to common hemorrhoid symptoms seen with the disease. There are two types of hemorrhoids, internal and external, each type having its own unique hemorrhoid symptoms.

Internal hemorrhoids happen when veins located in the lower rectum or anal canal protrudes as a result of inflammation or swelling. Hemorrhoid symptoms for internal type’s maybe asymptomatic, people may have internal hemorrhoids without ever becoming aware of it. Common hemorrhoid symptoms associated with the internal variety include the following:

• Blood in the stools “Hematochezia”

Friction caused by stools coming in contact with inflamed veins in the rectum or anal canal can destroy the integrity of the blood vessels causing ruptures. These hemorrhoid symptoms include the passing of bright red bloody stools which indicated bleeding in the rectum or anal canal. This should be differentiated from melena, another condition characterized by the passing of dark tarry stools which indicate bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract or gastrointestinal ulcers.

• Mucus discharge

The presence of mucus indicates infection. Because veins in the lower intestinal tract have been compromised, these areas are susceptible to infection. Mucus discharges coming out of the anus is one of the common internal hemorrhoid symptoms.

• Prolapse

This hemorrhoid symptom happens when the internal hemorrhoid protrudes from the anus. There are two types of prolapse which occurs during hemorrhoids. One is when the hemorrhoid protrudes during defecation but return to the anal canal after stool is passed out. The next type is one where the hemorrhoid escapes the anal opening and remains outside even without defecation.

• Rectal fullness

The patient may feel the urge to defecate even when there is no stool present in the rectum. The hemorrhoid symptom is due to severe inflammation of the veins in the rectum and anal canal. Severely inflamed veins touch the nerve endings in the area that the person is given false signals that stool is present and they need to defecate.

• Stool Leakage

Another internal hemorrhoid symptom is caused by advanced cases of internal hemorrhoids that damage the integrity of the surrounding tissues around them causing feces to be passed out involuntarily. The anal sphincter which is supposed to control the passage of feces becomes dangerously inflamed, compromising its ability to completely close the anal canal.

• Rectal Itching

Mucus and feces passing out of the anal canal uncontrollably comes in contact with the surrounding skin areas around the anal opening leaving them itchy and irritated.

External hemorrhoids are easier to detect because these hemorrhoid symptoms are more visible and pronounced. Hemorrhoids are considered thrombosed because the presence of blood clots stops blood from returning to normal circulation. If left untreated this leaves tissues deprived of nutrients and oxygen leading to cell death.

• Pain

Cell death and nerve irritation of sensitive skin and internal tissues is the cause of pain in hemorrhoids. Extreme pain during defecation is due to the feces coming in contact with inflamed tissues and exposed veins in the area.

Other external hemorrhoid symptoms include those seen in internal hemorrhoids. Symptoms include mucus discharge, bleeding and infection.

Hemorrhoid symptoms should never be taken lightly. Some of these symptoms can also indicate other medical conditions like gastrointestinal diseases and cancer. Self medication is discouraged as this might only worsen the medical condition. A quick visit to your doctor can help you determine is these are just simple hemorrhoid symptoms or an indication of a more dangerous medical condition.

Written by,

Ronald Uy, RN

© 2010  H.I.C. Digestive Health

If you suffer from hemorrhoids, you want an immediate relief to your itching, pain, and bleeding. Often relief comes from a popular salve containing chemicals that when applied does soothe the area. Yet, the hemorrhoids remain, only to return again as soon as you stop using the salve. The symptoms may have been subdued temporarily, but the underlying causes are still there. What you need is a holistic approach to eliminating hemorrhoids by finding and treating all the fundamental causes.

Of course, you do need immediate relief from the itching, burning and pain. If you look to nature to find a healing herb, you will find that one of best herbs is the comfrey plant which contains allantoin. Allantoin is an amazing ingredient that speeds the production of new cells to replace the damaged ones. So the comfrey herb relieves pain and inflammation of burns, eczemas, and other skin irritations, including the burning and itching of hemorrhoids. If it is used in an ointment with all other natural ingredients, the comfrey herb is very effective at reducing the inflammation and pain of hemorrhoids.

With the soothing effect of the ointment, you may think your hemorrhoids are cured, but they are still there waiting to flare-up again. Now, you need to work on changes to your diet. Eating more fiber and drinking six to eight glasses of water daily will help regulate your digestive system and avoid constipation, a primary cause of hemorrhoids. Adding beneficial herbal supplements to aid your digestion and shrink the hemorrhoids internally is another line of defense. A helpful herb is butcher’s broom that has been used for centuries to improve circulation, to tighten the circulatory system’s veins and to strengthen capillary walls. It is particularly helpful in shrinking hemorrhoids internally. Other helpful herbs for the digestive system are stone root, marshmallow root, slippery elm bark, red root and peppermint. A final step is cleansing the anal canal with water from a rectal bulb which will remove the impurities and toxins which irritate the hemorrhoids. Read the article on herbal hemorrhoid treatment for more info on natural healing solutions.

written by Joy Seeman,

© 2009  Hemorrhoid Information Center (H.I.C.)

Rectal Cancer occurs when a malignant tumor forms in the posterior region of the large intestines, which is called the rectum.   There are many risk factors regarding Rectal Cancer, including heredity, Ulcerative Colitis, and colorectal polyps.

Rectal Cancer is similar to Colon Cancer, but with several distinguishing traits.  The most common trait being its tendency to reoccur locally.  Following major surgical procedures the rate of relapse is approximately 15-45%.  The malignant tumors that occur as a result of Rectal Cancer begin as polyps, which may or may not initially be benign.  Early detection and treatment of the condition thus begins with polyp removal, which in the preliminary stages can produce no symptoms.  Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer is made by performing either a colonoscopy or a protoscopy, followed by a biopsy to confirm the findings.

Rectal Cancer prognosis is directly related the extent to which the rectal tumor has penetrated the wall of the anus, in addition to whether or not the cancer has spread and the lymphatic system has been compromised.   It is these two traits that define what is known as the Staging System for the condition, which in turn determines the severity of ones case.

Rectal Cancer is typically treated through a surgical procedure called mesorectal excision.  Doctors will prescribe a course of preoperative chemotherapy, which can reduce the chances of local reoccurrence, and can also reduce the adverse side-effects of postoperative chemotherapy.  The survival rate of patients who under go surgery in conjunction with a course of chemotherapy is approximately 73%.

Rectal Cancer is responsible for about 55,500 deaths annually, with approximately 136,000 new cases reported every year.  It is estimated that roughly two thirds of the reported cases are located in the colon, and the other third is located in the rectum.

Rectal Cancer Staging is performed after a diagnosis has been made.  This process includes a CT Scan (computed tomography) of the abdomen, chest, and pelvic region.  Blood work is also performed, as is tests to determine liver and kidney functionality.  The objective of the Staging procedure is to assist in creating the most effective intervention.  The Staging procedure for Rectal Cancer is similar to the Staging procedure performed for a diagnosis of Colon Cancer.

Rectal Cancer has many causes, some of which are environmental, some of which are genetic, and others which are hereditary.  Environmentally, it is believed that a diet that is rich in high-fats, and low in dietary fiber, aids in the development of rectal polyps.  Diets that are high in red meat also appear to increase one’s risk to developing Rectal Cancer or Colon Cancer.  Recent tests seem to indicate that consumption of alcohol poses a risk to developing Rectal Cancer, as does smoking or ingesting nicotine products.  A family history of Rectal Cancer is also a risk-factor that can determine one’s susceptibility and chances to developing the condition.  Additionally, the genetic disorder called Familial Adenomatous Polypsosis is often responsible for the formation of intestinal polyps, some of which can and will become malignant of they go undetected and untreated.  Ulcerative Colitis and Crohns Disease are two other preexisting conditions that contribute to Rectal Cancer.

written by David Gilbert

© H.I.C.

We have checked out many companies selling hemorrhoid preparations to investigate their sales pitches. They say things like: 48 hr. cure, curative against hemorrhoids, two day cure, rapidly eliminate hemorrhoids, the most effective treatment, one week hemorrhoid removal, fast long-lasting results, 98% success rate, say goodbye to pain, fast-lasting relief, etc. These comments are taken right from their ads and the claims go on and on.

One of America’s largest pharmaceutical companies manufactures a very popular product for hemorrhoids called Preparation H. They state clearly on their label, “prompt temporary relief,” at least admitting their product works temporarily. Today, they say “Regular application and lubrication provides continual therapy for relief of hemorrhoidal symptoms.” The other companies go beyond this with their cure claims. But they all have one thing in common; they treat the symptom and not the cause. By treating the symptom, they insure they will sell a lot of their products. Most of these products whether capsules, creams/ointments do what they say they will do but only temporarily, the hemorrhoid will keep flaring up, itching or bleeding, etc. If you do not find the root cause of your hemorrhoids, they will never go away.

There are many contributing factors as to why people develop hemorrhoids. Diet is certainly a major cause. Below are a few tips that can help prevent hemorrhoids:

• Limiting fat intake. Fat has twice the amount of calories as protein and carbohydrates, the energy nutrients. Eat lean cuts of meat instead of heavy red meats. Low-fat cheese, soy cheese, skim milk are better alternatives. Bake instead of frying, and use olive oil if you must fry. Reduce your salt intake and substitute herb spices.

• Drink plenty of water–6 to 8 glasses a day. Water lubricates the anal track, removes waste, transports nutrients, regulates body temperature, and gives you that full feeling so you will not eat as much.

• Increase your fiber intake. Eat lots of salads, fresh fruits and vegetables and bran cereals and whole grains. Read the labels on the boxes to stay away from the products loaded with sugar. Eat an apple or banana as a mid-morning or afternoon snack. Put together a raw-vegetable platter with low-calorie dressing.

• Maintaining a healthy diet. Eat the above mentioned foods every day. Buy fresh veggies first if you can, if not, buy frozen veggies and lastly canned veggies. They use chemicals in the cans. High fiber moves through the large intestine easily which keeps bowl movements from being too loose or too hard. This will help shrink the hemorrhoid. Chewing food well will help digestion.

• Stress Management. When under stress people will look for things to give them comfort like snack foods, cookies, ice cream, chips, chocolate, and alcohol. Instead, we should think of other ways to handle our stress.

• Exercise can help the whole body. Try to take some time in your busy day to exercise. Pick activities that fit your life style. Set fitness goals. Exercising burns fat, increases stamina, removes toxins and helps to keep our weight down. Vigorous exercise strengthens the lungs, heart and circulatory system.

• Other things to remember: Do not push and strain when moving the bowels.

Do not sit for long periods of time. If nothing happens leave and come back later.

Primitive people did not have toilets to sit on. To have a bowel movement they squatted, keeping their muscles tight.

How to Spot Health Fraud

(c) 2009 HIC