07/15/2005
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A hemorrhoid is identified as any abnormally swollen veins in the anus or rectum. There are two different types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids don't hurt or itch. They can't be felt because they form deep inside the rectum. External hemorrhoids are the cause of the pain, itching, and burning that you often hear about on TV.
If you are wondering whether or not you suffer from hemorrhoids, symptoms include rectal tenderness and bleeding, itching, and painful bowel movements - especially with straining. Sometimes a lump that can be felt in the anus or there may be a slight protrusion of tissue. Sufferers may also experience a discharge of mucus after a bowel movement.
When a hemorrhoid is irritated, the surrounding tissue can swell, burn, itch, become painful, or bleed. This can take place for a number of reasons. Most often, hemorrhoids form because of repeated excessive pressure in rectal or anal veins, usually as a result of straining to pass bowel movement. Straining puts pressure on the rectum and causes blood to enlarge, swell, and bulge the walls of the veins.
Once a rectal vein has been stretched and a hemorrhoid forms, they are difficult to get rid of and it takes less straining for them to recur. In addition, heavy lifting; pregnancy and delivery; obesity; overeating; inadequate exercise; and prolonged sitting - especially on the toilet -- can cause hemorrhoids to form.
If you suffer from hemorrhoids, medical treatment may be required. Sometimes a painful blood clot may form in the hemorrhoid. Treatment should also be sought out if there is excessive blood loss or if an infection develops. In addition, it may be wise to seek medical advice in order to rule out cancer of the rectum or colon.
Recommendations For Wellness
-- Ice packs and frozen probes can be inserted into the anus to reduce swelling. They can also provide relief from the itching and burning experienced, even if only temporarily.
-- Try taking a Stiz bath. Fill your tub with 4-5 inches of warm water and sit in it for 15 minutes after a bowel movement. A Stiz bath can help reduce swelling and help relieve the itchy burning feeling that is often experienced after a bowel movement.
-- Avoid reading or spending excess time on the toilet. If it takes you more than 3-5 minutes to have a bowel movement, then something is wrong.
-- Don't scratch. While scratching can make a hemorrhoid feel temporarily better, scratching can damage the walls of the veins and create more problems.
-- Using pads soaked with witch hazel can provide temporary relief from the burning and itching often experienced with hemorrhoids.
-- Eat lots of fruit, especially ones with outer skins such as apples, peaches, and pears. In addition to the added fiber the skin has, it will also help to add moisture to your stool.
-- Incorporate bulk forming fibers such as psyllium into your diet to help soften the stool and make the passage of a bowel movement easier and reduce straining. Dietary fiber holds water and helps keep the stool soft, while added bulk helps move the stool through the colon.
-- Make sure you drink your eight cups of water a day. Water is critical for providing the colon with enough moisture so that your stools do not dry out. This is especially true if you are taking dietary fiber supplements.
-- If you suffer from constipation, try eating a few dried prunes or drinking some prune juice. In addition to adding fiber, prunes have a mild laxative effect.
-- Herbs such as casgara segrada, turkey rhubarb, or herbal combinations such as Natures Sunshine1s LBS II and B-X can be used to evacuate the colon. While these should be used with caution, they are less aggressive than many commercial laxatives that are available at the supermarket.
-- Always stand and walk during your breaks at work and try to stand and walk at least five minutes every hour. This can help avoid direct pressure on your rectum.
-- If your job requires heavy lifting, make sure you exhale when as you strain or lift and whatever you do, don't hold your breath.
-- Butchers Broom is good for a wide range of circulatory ailments, especially ones involving veins.
-- White Oak Bark can be used to shrink swollen tissues & helps normalize bleeding.
Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. is the author of the books Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4 and The Power Within. It is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and clairvoyant that illuminates and enlivens her work. Let Dr. Louise help you bring health healing and wholeness back into your life. Medical Intuition & Energy Medicine Certification training classes are now forming. Visit http://www.soulhealer.com or call (972) 475-3393 for more information.
© 2005 Dr. Rita LouiseThe views and opinions expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect those of College Central Network, Inc. or its affiliates. Reference to any company, organization, product, or service does not constitute endorsement by College Central Network, Inc., its affiliates or associated companies. The information provided is not intended to replace the advice or guidance of your legal, financial, or medical professional.