Hemorrhoids are a common problem affecting both men and women equally. They are characterized by painful, swollen, and inflamed veins around the anus or lower rectum. Common symptoms include bleeding and anal itching. In most cases, fortunately, symptoms are mild and don't last more than a few days.
Hemorrhoids are often caused by straining during stool movement; other factors that can lead to this condition include aging, chronic
constipation or
diarrhea, and anal intercourse. To prevent hemorrhoids, you may find it helpful to empty your bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs, and to keep stools soft by increasing fiber in the diet and exercising so that they pass easily.
If these methods fail to improve symptoms, surgery may be required. This option may be suggested when the hemorrhoids are extremely painful, bleed repeatedly, or are prolapsed.
(Click Hemorrhoids for more information, including how often hemorrhoids occur and a detailed list factors that increase your risk of developing them.)
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