Fast Facts about Hemorrhoids
- Approximately 50% of all Americans above or near the age of 50 suffer from hemorrhoids while only 4% of them seek medical treatment.
- Women are more likely to suffer from hemorrhoids (24.9%) as compared to men (15.2%). Men are more likely to get medical treatment as compared to women.
- An estimate of 10 million people in America suffers from hemorrhoids annually.
- Each year, approximately 1 million new cases of hemorrhoids are diagnosed and 10-230% of them require surgical intervention.
- Each year, nearly 316,000 people are hospitalized in America for external hemorrhoids.
- Out of these 316,000, approximately 17 die each year.
Commonly referred to as piles, hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the rectum and lower part of the anus. When one develops hemorrhoids, the walls of both these vessels stretch and become irritated. The word hemorrhoid has a Greek origin which means veins responsible for discharging blood. Hemorrhoids can be defined into two different types based on their severity. Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum and therefore invisible from the outside. These aren’t painful. The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are visible as they are around the skin of the anus. These can be very painful as there are more sensitive nerves around.
One is at risk of developing hemorrhoids if it runs in the genes, indulges in heavy lifting, is obese, has diarrhea, involved in anal sexual intercourse too often or puts constant strain on the body. Most females during their pregnancy develop hemorrhoids as their uterus enlarges and as a result, presses the veins in the colon.
Symptoms
The symptoms of those suffering from internal hemorrhoids differ from those suffering from external hemorrhoids; however, there are some common noticeable symptoms which include:
- Severe itching around the anal area
- Pain and irritation around the anus
- Swelling and painful lump formation around the anus
- Painful bowel movements
- Fecal leakage
- Blood on the tissue after bowel movements
Hemorrhoids may be painful, they aren’t life-threatening. Many a times, they go away on their own and don’t require medical treatment. However, if blood loss continues and one remains in severe pain for more than a few hours, it is best to seek medical assistance as prolonged hemorrhoids can lead to anemia, pale skin and weakness.
Recommended Supplements
While eating a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to manage hemorrhoids, it is not enough to keep you fit and healthy. Supplements are essential for managing Hemorrhoids and reducing its symptoms. But it should be kept in mind that supplements should not be used to replace the treatment for hemorrhoids. It is not always true that natural products are safe for use. Many products can react with your body and produce an adverse reaction. Thus, it is better to be safe and consult your before starting to use any supplements for managing your condition.
The following supplements have proven to benefit people with hemorrhoids:
Echinacea angustifolia root
Known as a miraculous plant, Echinacea augustifolia root is one of the most popular alternatives to natural antibiotics and nutritional supplements. Its antiseptic, antifungal and antiviral properties help restore body’s resistance to diseases. Frequent application on areas that itch or are inflamed relieves, disinfect and numbs them. All these properties make it an excellent choice to treat cases of hemorrhoids.
Cascara Sagrada
One of the most effective over-the-counter medications of conditions like constipation and hemorrhoids, Cascara’s herbal benefits are unmatched. Generally safe to use, this may, in some rare cases, cause liver injury when taken in high doses.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is commonly used to treat digestive disorders, including peptic ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, intestinal gas and hemorrhoids. It reduces swelling and pain around the area applied on. It is feverously used in many skin-related products such as vaginal creams and serums for women as it limits the pain and swelling.
Chamomile
One of the safest herbal medicines to treat hemorrhoids, Chamomile extract works as a mild relaxant to reduce the irritation and pain around the anus. It is also beneficial in treating diarrhea, insomnia and anxiety. When applied on skin, it heals wounds faster and reduces any irritation or burning sensation.
Horsechestnut
Horsechestnut has been used throughout Europe for almost century now. Its anti-inflammatory properties are most effective to treat cases of hemorrhoids, frostbites, leg ulcers and tightening of arteries.
The above natural supplements are known to help in controlling and managing hemorrhoids, but you should exercise proper caution and ask your doctor before adding any such supplements for in your diet. Herbs have lasting and strong effects on the body and can also interact with other drugs and medications, causing dangerous and adverse reactions. If you use any medication for your disease, talk to your doctor before you decide to start any supplements or herbal products to manage your health condition.