Hemorrhoids refer to clumps made up of dilated blood vessels that have enlarging effects in the anus or lower rectum.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids refer to clumps formed by enlarged blood vessels that have dilated in the anus or lower rectum. The rectum, which is the last part of the large intestine before it exits the anus, is where the feces leaves the body. The anus is where the feces leaves the body and ends at the end of the digestive system.
Hemorrhoids can sometimes swell as the veins become larger and their walls become stretched and thinned by passing stool. There are two main types of hemorrhoids:
- Internal, originating from the rectum.
- External, originated in the anus.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, have been a source of pain and irritation for humans throughout history. The Greek word “haimorrhoides” means veins that are susceptible to releasing blood. You are not the only one who has experienced hemorrhoids. Three out of four people will experience hemorrhoids at one time or another in their lifetime. Napoleon was affected by hemorrhoids and suffered severe pain after his defeat at Waterloo.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Both internal and external hemorrhoids may need different treatment.
Hemorrhoids can be defined as enlarged or swollen blood vessels (also known as varicose) situated around the anus and lower rectum. There are two ways to get to the anus. The first is through the rectum, which is the final section of the intestine. Fecal matter can be expelled from the body through this opening.
Hemorrhoidal tissue, which is made up of blood vessels and connective tissue, may be found in everyone’s blood vessels. Additionally, some muscle contributes to it. Although these “cushions” don’t always grow larger or distended as a result of ageing, it has become more usual to encounter hemorrhoids (also known as piles).
Hemorrhoids can arise in numerous ways. A typical reason for constipation is straining to get a stool to move. Hemorrhoids can also be induced by lifting heavy things and other activities that could cause straining. Increased blood pressure and being overweight are two more variables that have a role.
Although hemorrhoids can be bothersome and painful if they occur frequently, they are not life-threatening or dangerous. Symptoms usually disappear within a few days. There are many effective treatments for hemorrhoids, and there are also options available to treat more severe types.
Types of Hemorrhoids: External and Internal
Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external.
- Internal hemorrhoids.
These hemorrhoids form inside the rectum, the part of the large intestinal tract leading to the anus. They are usually not visible to the naked eye. Although they don’t usually hurt, internal hemorrhoids can sometimes bleed easily. Sometimes, internal hemorrhoids can protrude through anus. This is called prolapsed. They will often shrink back within the rectum or can be pushed in.
- External hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids form under the skin near the outside of anus. These hemorrhoids are the most painful and uncomfortable. They can be itchy, painful, and feel lumpy. A thrombosed hemorrhoid is a blood clot that forms in an external hemorrhoid. This can cause severe and ongoing pain. Sometimes, clots will dissolve by themselves, but if not, your doctor may be able to remove them. This is a procedure that works best if it’s done within 72 hours.
