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hemorrhoid

 
Medical Encyclopedia: Hemorrhoids
 
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Definition

Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the anus or lower rectum. They often go unnoticed and usually clear up after a few days, but can cause long-lasting discomfort, bleeding and be excruciatingly painful. Effective medical treatments are available, however.

Description

Hemorrhoids (also called piles) can be divided into two kinds, internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the anus or lower rectum, beneath the anal or rectal lining. External hemorrhoids lie outside the anal opening. Both kinds can be present at the same time.

Hemorrhoids are a very common medical complaint. More than 75% of Americans have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, typically after age 30. Pregnant women often develop hemorrhoids, but the condition usually clears up after childbirth. Men are more likely than women to suffer from hemorrhoids that require professional medical treatment.

— Howard Baker


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Dictionary: hem·or·rhoid   (hĕm'ə-roid') pronunciation
 
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n.
  1. An itching or painful mass of dilated veins in swollen anal tissue.
  2. hemorrhoids The pathological condition in which such painful masses occur. Also called piles.

[From Middle English emoroides, hemorrhoids, from Old French emoroides, from Latin haemorrhoidae, from Greek haimorrhoïdes, pl. of haimorrhoïs, from haimorrhoos, flowing with blood : haimo-, hemo- + rhein, to flow.]


 
Alternative Medicine Encyclopedia: Hemorrhoids
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Definition

Hemorrhoids, which are also called piles, is a condition of weakened and swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. They often go unnoticed and usually clear up after a few days, but can also cause long-lasting discomfort of the rectum such as pain, itching, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be divided into two types: Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the anus or lower rectum; external hemorrhoids lie outside the anal opening. Both can be present at the same time. Sometimes a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid and inflammation and a painful lump develops. This condition is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid.

Description

Hemorrhoids are a very common medical complaint. More than 75% of Americans have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, typically after age 30. Men are more likely than women to suffer from hemorrhoids that are serious enough to require professional treatment.

During a bowel movement, veins in the anus are protected from damage by expanding to drain blood away from the area. The veins are normally somewhat elastic, and they snap back to their regular size after defecation is finished. However, repeated straining due to constipation or hardened stools causes the veins to be swollen and stretched out of shape. The swelling also triggers nerves in the area, causing itchiness and a sensation of fulless in the bowel. In addition, straining may cause the rupture of blood vessels and bleeding at the anus.

Causes & Symptoms

Aging, obesity, pregnancy, chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea, excessive use of enemas or laxatives, straining during bowel movements, and spending too much time on the toilet are all factors that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. In some people there is also a genetic tendency to have fragile veins that are prone to developing hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bright red blood in the toilet bowl or on one's feces or toilet paper. When hemorrhoids remain inside the anus they are almost never painful, but they can protrude outside the anus and become irritated and sore. Such hemorrhoids are called prolapsed hemorrhoids. These sometimes move back into the anal canal on their own or can be pushed back inside; however, they may remain permanently outside the anus until treated by a doctor. Small external hemorrhoids usually do not produce symptoms. Larger ones, however, can be painful and interfere with sitting, walking, defecating, and cleaning the anal area after a bowel movement.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids begins with a visual examination of the anus, followed by an internal manual examination. The doctor may also insert an anoscope, a small tube with a light that can be used to view the anal canal. More serious problems may be ruled out using a sigmoidoscope or colonoscope to inspect the colon.

Treatment

An herbal sitz bath using witch hazel, Hamamelis virginiana, may shrink hemorrhoids and ease discomfort. A strong infusion should be prepared by adding a gallon of boiling water to eight ounces of the dry herb, and then letting this mixture steep overnight. The infusion can be used several times as a 15-minute soak. Witch hazel can also be wiped directly over external hemorrhoids. In addition, an ointment formulated of plantain, Plantago spp. and yarrow, Achillea millefolium, will reportedly reduce pain and swelling.

Chinese herbal medicine may be formulated to treat Spleen Qi deficiency or heat in the lower burner. Hemp seeds are recommended for constipation. Daily helpings of foods that soften the stools and make them easier to pass are recommended by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM); examples of these include carrots, broccoli, dried persimmons and unripe figs. Acupuncture and acupressure are also recommended.

Homeopathy offers a gentle treatment solution for hemorrhoids. It is, therefore, especially appropriate for use during pregnancy. Suggested remedies include Aeschulus hippocastanum 30c, Hamamelis virginiana 6c, and Calcarea fluorica 6c. Homeopathic and herbal rectal suppositories are available.

Allopathic Treatment

Hemorrhoids can often be dealt with effectively by dietary and lifestyle changes. Avoiding constipation is important; therefore adding fiber to the diet is recommended. Bulk laxatives and fiber supplements such as Metamucil or Citrucel may be suggested. After each bowel movement, wiping with a moistened tissue or pad sold for that purpose helps lessen irritation. A warm sitz bath for about 10 or 15 minutes two to four times a day can ease hemorrhoid pain. A cool compress or ice pack to reduce swelling is also recommended. Many people find temporary relief using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams and foams. These products, however, are not receommended during pregnancy.

When painful hemorrhoids do not respond to home-based remedies, professional medical treatment is necessary. Rubber band ligation is probably the most widely used of the many treatments for internal hemorrhoids. It is also the least costly for the patient. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. An applicator is used to place one or two small rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off the blood supply. After 3 to 10 days in the bands, the hemorrhoid falls off, leaving a sore that heals in a week or two. Because internal hemorrhoids are located in a part of the anus that is not sensitive to pain, anesthesia is unnecessary and the procedure is painless in most cases. The procedure may need to be repeated a few weeks later. After five years, 15–20% of patients experience a recurrence of internal hemorrhoids, but in most cases all that is needed is another banding.

External hemorrhoids, and some prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, are removed by conventional surgery in a hospital. Depending on the circumstances, this procedure may require anesthesia. Full healing takes two to four weeks, but most people are able to resume normal activities at the end of a week. Hemorrhoids seldom return after surgery.

Expected Results

Hemorrhoids are rarely life-threatening. Most clear up after a few days without medical treatment. However, because colorectal cancer and other digestive system diseases can cause anal bleeding and other hemorrhoid symptoms, people should always consult a healthcare practitioner when hemorrhoid symptoms occur.

Prevention

A high-fiber diet, daily exercise, and losing excess weight are recommended to maintain healthy digestion and elimination. To prevent hemorrhoids by strengthening the veins of the anus, rectum, and colon and increasing circulation, blackberries, blueberries, cherries and vitamin C are recommended. Tinctures of butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus, and horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), plant pigments (called flavonoids) found in fruit and fruit products, tea, and soy also are recommended. It should be noted that horse chestnut, along with commercial hemorrhoid preparations, is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Drinking water with a high-fiber meal or supplement will cause the stools to be softer and easier to pass, reducing straining. Constipation should be avoided, and good toilet habits should be cultivated. Promptly responding to the urge to defecate will help encourage regular bowel movements. Defecation should be done without rushing or straining. A squatting position over the toilet or having the feet raised on a small bench or footstool will also improve elimination. Reading, working or watching television are discouraged, because they entail prolonged sitting on the toilet, which increases the strain placed on the anal and rectal veins. Perfumed soaps or toilet waters may irritate the anal area and should be avoided, as should excessive cleansing, rubbing, or wiping.

Resources

Books

The Burton Goldberg Group, eds. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. Fife, WA: Future Medicine Publishing, 1999.

Lininger, D.C., Skye, editor-in-chief, et al. The Natural Pharmacy. Rocklin, CA: Prima Health, 1998.

Simons, Anne M.D., Bobbie Hasselbring, and Michael Castleman. Before You Call the Doctor: Safe, Effective Self-Care for Over 300 Common Medical Problems. New York: Fawcett Columbine, 1992.

Periodicals

Pfenninger, John L. "Modern Treatments for Internal Haemorrhoids." British Medical Journal, 1997.

Surrell, James. "Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Internal Hemorrhoids." American Family Physician (September 1995).

Organizations

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 2 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3570. http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/digest/nddic.htm

[Article by: Patience Paradox]

 
Britannica Concise Encyclopedia: hemorrhoid
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Mass formed by distension of the network of veins supplying the anal canal. It may develop from infection or increased abdominal pressure (as in pregnancy or heavy lifting). Mild hemorrhoids may require only ointments, laxatives, and baths. If clotting, bleeding, or pain occurs, surgical removal may be needed. Internal hemorrhoids, with little nerve supply, can be destroyed in several ways without anesthesia. External hemorrhoids, under the skin, are cut out under local anesthesia.

For more information on hemorrhoid, visit Britannica.com.

 
Columbia Encyclopedia: hemorrhoids
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hemorrhoids (hĕm'əroidz) or piles, dilatations of the veins about the anus (external hemorrhoids) or those higher up inside it (internal hemorrhoids). They appear as small, rounded, purplish tumors, often complicated by inflammation, clotting, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids are very common phenomena and are brought about by factors that produce venous congestion, such as constipation, diarrhea, or pregnancy. In some instances, the pain from inflamed hemorrhoids can be intense, and the bleeding so profuse as to pose the threat of anemia. Hemorrhoids that are uncomplicated or bleed only slightly at infrequent intervals do not require specific treatment except to improve the condition that may be causing them, such as constipation. Hemorrhoids that are very painful or bleed excessively are treated by warm baths and suppositories and, if necessary, by injection, laser surgery, or traditional surgery.

 
Wikipedia: Hemorrhoid
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This article or section has multiple issues. Please help improve the article or discuss these issues on the talk page.
This article may need to be rewritten entirely to comply with Wikipedia's quality standards. You can help. The discussion page may contain suggestions. (May 2009)
Hemorrhoids
Classification and external resources
Classical appearance of a hostile Hemorrhoid.
ICD-10 I84.
ICD-9 455
DiseasesDB 10036
MedlinePlus 000292
eMedicine med/2821  emerg/242
Hemorrhoids
Classification and external resources
Schematic demonstrating the anatomy of hemorrhoids.
ICD-10 I84.
ICD-9 455
DiseasesDB 10036
MedlinePlus 000292
eMedicine med/2821  emerg/242


Hemorrhoids (AmE), haemorrhoids (BrE), emerods, or piles are swelling and inflammation of veins in the rectum and anus. The anatomical term "hemorrhoids" technically refers to "'Cushions of tissue filled with blood vessels at the junction of the rectum and the anus."[1] However, the term is popularly used to refer to varicosities of the hemorrhoid tissue. Perianal hematoma are sometimes misdiagnosed and mislabeled as hemorrhoids, when in fact they have different causes and treatments.[2].

Contents

Causes

Sitting for long periods of time can start the hemorrhoidic process.

Increased straining during bowel movements caused by constipation or diarrhea may lead to hemorrhoids.[3] It is thus a common condition due to constipation caused by water retention in women experiencing premenstrual syndrome or menstruation.

Hypertension, particularly portal hypertension, can also cause hemorrhoids because of the connections between the portal vein and the vena cava which occur in the rectal wall—known as portocaval anastomoses.[4]

Obesity can be a factor by increasing rectal vein pressure. Poor muscle tone or poor posture can result in too much pressure on the rectal veins.

Pregnancy may lead to hypertension and increase strain during bowel movements, so hemorrhoids are often associated with pregnancy.[citation needed]

Cigarette smoking during bowel movements, may worsen hemorrhoid, may lead to severe internal bleeding of veins inside rectum area. Both can cause diarrhea. Note that caffeine ingestion increases blood pressure transiently, but is not thought to cause chronic hypertension. Alcohol can also cause alcoholic liver disease leading to portal hypertension.

Symptoms

Many anorectal problems, including fissures, fistulae, abscesses, anal melanoma or irritation and itching, also called pruritus ani, have similar symptoms and are incorrectly referred to as hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are usually not dangerous or life threatening. In most cases, hemorrhoidal symptoms will go away within a few days.

Although many people have hemorrhoids, and hemorroidial radiation, not all experience symptoms. The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoidial radiation is bright red blood covering the feces (hematochezia), on toilet paper, and/or in the toilet bowl. However, an internal hemorrhoid may protrude through the anus outside the body, becoming irritated and painful. This is known as a protruding hemorrhoid.

Symptoms of external hemorrhoids may include painful swelling or a hard lump around the anus that results when a blood clot forms. This condition is known as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid.

In addition, excessive straining, rubbing, or cleaning around the anus may cause irritation with bleeding and/or itching, which may produce a vicious circle of symptoms. Draining anal mucus, produced by the dentate line may also cause itching.

Food

Insufficient liquid can cause a hard stool, or even chronic constipation, which can lead to hemorrhoidal radiation. An excess of lactic acid in the stool, a product of excessive consumption of dairy products, such as yogurt, can cause radiation; reducing such consumption can bring relief. Vitamin E deficiency is also a common cause. Eating spicy food does not cause hemorrhoids, though spicy foods may aggravate the condition.

Types of hemorrhoids

Direct view of hemorrhoid seen on sigmoidoscopy
  • (I84.3-I84.5) External hemorrhoids are those that occur outside the anal verge (the distal end of the anal canal). Specifically they are varicosities of the veins draining the territory of the inferior rectal arteries, which are branches of the pudendal artery. They are sometimes painful, and can be accompanied by swelling and irritation. Itching, although often thought to be a symptom of external hemorrhoids, is more commonly due to skin irritation.
    • (I84.3) External hemorrhoids are prone to thrombosis: if the vein ruptures and/or a blood clot develops, the hemorrhoid becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid.[5]
  • (I84.0-I84.2) Internal hemorrhoids are those that occur inside the rectum. Specifically they are varicosities of veins draining the territory of branches of the superior rectal arteries. As this area lacks pain receptors, internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful and most people are not aware that they have them. Internal hemorrhoids, however, may bleed when irritated.
  • (I84.1) Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to two severe forms of hemorrhoids: prolapsed and strangulated hemorrhoids:
    • Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that are so distended that they are pushed outside the anus.
    • If the anal sphincter muscle goes into spasm and traps a prolapsed hemorrhoid outside the anal opening, the supply of blood is cut off, and the hemorrhoid becomes a strangulated hemorrhoid.

By degree of prolapse

The most common grading system was developed by Banov:[6][7]

  • Grading of Internal Hemorrhoids
    • Grade I: The hemorrhoids do not prolapse.
    • Grade II: The hemorrhoids prolapse upon defecation but spontaneously reduce.
    • Grade III: The hemorrhoids prolapse upon defecation, but must be manually reduced.
    • Grade IV: The hemorrhoids are prolapsed and cannot be manually reduced.

Prevention

Prevention of hemorrhoids includes drinking more fluids, eating more dietary fiber (such as fruits, vegetables and cereals high in fiber), exercising, practicing better posture, and reducing bowel movement strain and time. Hemorrhoid sufferers should avoid using laxatives and should strictly limit time straining during bowel movement. Wearing tight clothing and underwear will also contribute to irritation and poor muscle tone in the region and promote hemorrhoid development. Some sufferers report a more comfortable experience without underwear or wearing only very lightweight underwear.

Women who notice they have painful stools around the time of menstruation would be well-advised to begin taking extra dietary fiber and fluids a couple days prior to that time.

Fluids emitted by the intestinal tract may contain irritants that may increase the fissures associated with hemorrhoids. Washing the anus with cool water and soap may reduce the swelling and increase blood supply for quicker healing and may remove irritating fluid.

Kegel exercises for the pelvic floor may also prove helpful.

Many people do not get a sufficient supply of dietary fiber (20 to 25 grams daily) and small changes in a person's daily diet can help tremendously in both prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids.

Use of squat toilets

Based on their very low incidence in the developing world, where people squat for bodily functions, hemorrhoids have been attributed to the use of the "sitting" toilet.[8][9] Dr. Berko Sikirov published a study in 1987 testing this hypothesis by having hemorrhoid sufferers convert to squat toilets.[10] Eighteen of the 20 patients were completely relieved of their symptoms (pain and bleeding) with no recurrence, even 30 months after completion of the study. This chart summarizes the results. This study was undertaken in a very small number of people, when compared to the numbers involved in recognized high-quality trials. Therefore, the results, while highly suggestive, cannot be assumed to provide a firm conclusion.

No follow-up studies have ever been published. The American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons is silent regarding the therapeutic value of squatting.

Examination

Endoscopic image of internal hemorrhoids seen on retroflexion of the flexible sigmoidoscope at the ano-rectal junction

After visual examination of the anus and surrounding area for external or prolapsed hemorrhoids, a doctor may conduct a digital examination. In addition to probing for hemorrhoidal bulges, a doctor may also look for indications of rectal tumor or polyp, enlarged prostate and abscesses.

Visual confirmation of hemorrhoids can be done by doing an anoscopy, using a medical device called an anoscope. This device is basically a hollow tube with a light attached at one end that allows the doctor to see the internal hemorrhoids, as well as polyps in the rectum.

If warranted, more detailed examinations, such as sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy can be performed. In sigmoidoscopy, the last 60 cm of the colon and rectum are examined whereas in colonoscopy the entire large bowel (colon) is examined.

A pathologist will look for dilated vascular spaces which exhibit thrombosis and recanalization.

Treatments

Treatments for hemorrhoids vary in their cost, risk, and effectiveness. Different cultures and individuals approach treatment differently. Some of the treatments used are listed here in increasing order of intrusiveness and cost.

For many people, hemorrhoids are mild and temporary conditions that heal spontaneously or by the same measures recommended for prevention. There is no medicine that will cure hemorrhoids but local treatments such as warm sitz baths, using a bidet, extendable showerhead, cold compress, or topical analgesic (such as Nupercainal), can also provide temporary relief.

Especially in the case of external hemorrhoids with a visible lump of small size, the condition can be improved with warm bath causing the vessels around the rectal region to be relaxed. Consistent use of medicated creams ( Polysporin Fast Healing Ointment ) during the early stages of a hemorrhoid flare-up will also provide relief and may stave off further development and irritation. However, creams containing steroid preparations weaken the skin and may contribute to further flare-ups. Keep the area clean and dry, with some lubrication provided by hemorrhoidal creams or a lubricant. Ointment or suppositories such as Proctosedyl[11][12] and Faktu[13] can also relieve the symptoms.

Surgical and non-medicinal treatments

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Please help improve this article by adding reliable references. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (May 2009)

Some people require the following medical treatments for chronic or severe hemorrhoids:

  • Rubber band ligation
    Sometimes called Baron ligation. Elastic bands are applied onto an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply.[14] Within several days, the withered hemorrhoid is sloughed off during normal bowel movement.
  • Hemorrhoidolysis/Galvanic Electrotherapy
    Desiccation of the hemorrhoid by electrical current.
  • Sclerotherapy (injection therapy)
    Sclerosant or hardening agent is injected into hemorrhoids. This causes the vein walls to collapse and the hemorrhoids to shrivel up.
  • Cryosurgery
    A frozen tip of a cryoprobe is used to destroy hemorrhoidal tissues.[15] Rarely used anymore because of side effects.
  • Laser, infrared or BICAP coagulation
    Laser, infrared beam, or electricity is used to cauterize the affected tissues. Lasers are now much less popular. Infrared coagulation has been studied in comparison with RBL and found to be as effective in hemorrhoids up to grade III. These are the most readily available non-surgical procedures in the US.
  • Hemorrhoidectomy
    A true surgical procedure to excise and remove hemorrhoids. Has possible correlation with incontinence issues later in life; in addition, many patients complain that pain during recovery is severe. For this reason is often now recommended only for severe (grade IV) hemorrhoids.
  • Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy
    Also called the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids, it is designed to resect soft tissue proximal to the dentate line, which disrupts the blood flow to the hemorrhoids. It is generally less painful than complete removal of hemorrhoids and also allows for faster recovery times. It's meant for hemorrhoids that fall out or bleed and is not helpful for painful outside conditions.
  • Enema
    This practice is used to clean the rectum. While it is a simple procedure, it can be complicated by hemorrhoids, so in such cases, it should be done by a doctor. In an enema, water is injected into the rectum and then flushed out, cleaning the area.
  • Doppler Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation
    The only evidence-based surgery for all grades of hemorrhoids. It does not involve cutting tissues or even a stay at the hospital; patients are usually back to work on the same day. It is the best treatment for bleeding piles, as the bleeding stops immediately. [16]
  • HAL-RAR[1]
    To date, Doppler Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation was indicated in management of Grade II & Grade III Hemorrhoids but with the availability of HAL Recto Anal Repair Management of prolapsing hemorrhoids without excision is also possible.
  • Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD-HP)
    THD-HP is a minimally invasive treatment for hemorrhoids and hemorrhoidal prolapse. THD uses an ultrasound doppler to accurately locate the arterial blood inflow. With simple suture, these arteries are “tied off” and the prolapsed tissue is sutured back to anatomical position without excision of tissue. THD is performed above the nerve bundles, or dentate line. Because of this, there is very little pain. THD is typically performed in an out-patient setting and return to normal activities is within a few days.
  • Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids
    (or PPH) Using a hemorrhoidal circular stapler device, the procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids procedure essentially "lifts up," or repositions the mucosa, or anal canal tissue, and reduces blood flow to the internal hemorrhoids. These internal hemorrhoids then typically shrink within four to six weeks after the procedure. The PPH procedure results in less pain than traditional hemorrhoidectomy procedures because it is performed above the area where a person would feel pain, or dentate line inside the anal canal. The advantage is that this hemorrhoid treatment method affects few nerve endings, while traditional hemorrhoidectomy procedures are performed below the dentate line, affecting many sensitive nerve endings.
  • Radiofrequency Coagulation

Natural treatments

 This article needs additional citations for verification.
Please help improve this article by adding reliable references. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (May 2009)

Some people claim to have successfully applied natural procedures for treatment or reversal of chronic conditions. These procedures largely echo the prevention measures. However, self-care measures, including herbal or "natural" remedies, should not be undertaken without medical consent to avoid possible drug interactions. They include:

  • Topical application of natural astringents and soothing agents, such as Witch hazel (astringent), Cranesbill, Aloe vera, and honey.
  • Eating fiber-rich bulking agents such as plantain and Psyllium seed husks to help create a softer stool that is easier to pass, to lessen the irritation of existing hemorrhoids.
  • Using the squatting position for bowel movements.[17]
  • For sufferers of hemorrhoids caused by poor vein circulation (coupled with varicose veins in lower extremities and/or varicocele), sleeping overnight with raised legs helps reduce or completely eliminate especially external hemorrhoids.
  • Placing an ice pack to an external hemorrhoid should relieve itching and swelling. Leave the ice pack on the hemorrhoid for 15 to 20 minutes.

The combination of internal and external remedies is particularly recommended, e.g., Witch-hazel suppositories combined with frequent cups of strong chamomile tea.[18]

Dietary supplements can help treat and prevent many complications of hemorrhoids, and natural botanicals such as Butchers Broom, Horse-chestnut, Hem-eez and bioflavonoids can be an effective addition to hemorrhoid treatment.[19]

Butcher's Broom extract, or Ruscus aculeatus, contains ruscogenins that have anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictor effects that help tighten and strengthen veins. Butcher's Broom has traditionally been used to treat venous problems including hemorrhoids and varicose veins.[20][21][22]

Horse-chestnut extract, or Aesculus hippocastanum, contains a saponin known as aescin, that has anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, and venotonic actions. Aescin improves tone in vein walls, thereby strengthening the support structure of the vein. Double blind studies have shown that supplementation with Horse-chestnut helps relieve the pain and swelling associated with chronic venous insufficiency.[23][24]

Bilberry extract, or Vaccinium myrtillus, is an anthocyanoside bioflavonoid. Supplementation with this potent flavonoid protects and maintains venous strength and function.[20][25]

Diseases with similar symptoms

Symptoms associated with rectal cancer, anal fissure, anal abscess, anal fistula, perianal hematoma, and other diseases may be similar to those produced by hemorrhoids and may be reduced by the topical analgesic methods described above. For this reason, it is a good idea to consult with a physician when these symptoms are encountered, particularly for the first time, and periodically should the problem continue. In the US, colonoscopy is recommended as a general diagnostic for those over age 50 (40 with family history of bowel cancers).

Hemorrhoids in popular culture

  • George Brett of the Kansas City Royals famously had to leave game 2 of the 1980 World Series due to extreme pain from hemorrhoids, but returned in game 3 following a procedure to relieve the pain. In 1981 he missed 2 weeks of spring training having the hemorrhoids removed. [26]
  • Michael Scott, a main character in NBC's 'The Office,' proclaims that he has hemorrhoids when he is alone in the woods.
  • American film director Kevin Smith mentions that he frequently gets hemorrhoids during the third installment of his An Evening With Kevin Smith question and answer series. [27]

References

  1. ^ MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia:Hemorrhoid surgery - series: Normal anatomy
  2. ^ Perianal hematoma - Medbroadcast
  3. ^ Harms R (November 3, 2007). "Hemorrhoids during pregnancy: Treatment options". MayoClinic. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hemorrhoids-during-pregnancy/AN01720. Retrieved on 2007-11-28. 
  4. ^ "Causes of Hemorrhoids". Mayo Clinic. November 28, 2006. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hemorrhoids/DS00096/DSECTION=3. Retrieved on 2007-12-07. 
  5. ^ E. Gojlan, Pathology, 2nd ed. Mosby Elsevier, Rapid Review series.
  6. ^ Hemorrhoid at eMedicine
  7. ^ Banov L, Knoepp LF, Erdman LH, Alia RT (1985). "Management of hemorrhoidal disease". J S C Med Assoc 81 (7): 398–401. PMID 3861909. 
  8. ^ Sikirov BA (1989). "Primary constipation: an underlying mechanism". Med. Hypotheses 28 (2): 71–3. doi:10.1016/0306-9877(89)90016-9. PMID 2927355. 
  9. ^ Sikirov D (2003). "Comparison of straining during defecation in three positions: results and implications for human health". Dig. Dis. Sci. 48 (7): 1201–5. doi:10.1023/A:1024180319005. PMID 12870773. 
  10. ^ Sikirov BA (1987). "Management of hemorrhoids: a new approach". Isr. J. Med. Sci. 23 (4): 284–6. PMID 3623887. 
  11. ^ Proctosedyl ointment/suppositories
  12. ^ Proctosedyl - Drugs - Medbroadcast
  13. ^ http://www.vghks.gov.tw/ph/%E8%99%95%E6%96%B9%E9%9B%86/drug/faktu.htm
  14. ^ Longman RJ, Thomson WH (2006). "A prospective study of outcome from rubber band ligation of piles". Colorectal Dis 8 (2): 145–8. doi:10.1111/j.1463-1318.2005.00873.x. PMID 16412076. 
  15. ^ MacLeod JH (1982). "In defense of cryotherapy for hemorrhoids. A modified method". Dis. Colon Rectum 25 (4): 332–5. PMID 6979469. 
  16. ^ Scheyer M, Antonietti E, Rollinger G, Mall H, Arnold S (2006). "Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation". Am. J. Surg. 191 (1): 89–93. doi:10.1016/j.amjsurg.2005.10.007. PMID 16399113. 
  17. ^ Christine Dimmer, Brian Martin, Noeline Reeves and Frances Sullivan (October 1996). "Squatting for the Prevention of Hemorrhoids". Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients (159): 66–70. http://www.uow.edu.au/arts/sts/bmartin/pubs/96tldp.html. 
  18. ^ K. Kraft and C. Hobbs, Pocket Guide to Herbal Medicine. New York: Thieme.
  19. ^ MacKay D (2001). "Hemorrhoids and varicose veins: a review of treatment options" (PDF). Altern Med Rev 6 (2): 126–40. PMID 11302778. http://www.thorne.com/altmedrev/.fulltext/6/2/126.pdf. 
  20. ^ a b Pizzorno JE and Murray MT, eds., ed (1998). Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine (revised 2nd ed.). CA: Prima Publishing. pp. 829. 
  21. ^ Rudofsky G (1989). "[Improving venous tone and capillary sealing. Effect of a combination of Ruscus extract and hesperidine methyl chalcone in healthy probands in heat stress]" (in German). Fortschr. Med. 107 (19): 52, 55–8. PMID 2668140. 
  22. ^ Cappelli R, Nicora M, Di Perri T (1988). "Use of extract of Ruscus aculeatus in venous disease in the lower limbs". Drugs Exp Clin Res 14 (4): 277–83. PMID 3048951. 
  23. ^ Pittler MH, Ernst E (1998). "Horse-chestnut seed extract for chronic venous insufficiency. A criteria-based systematic review". Arch Dermatol 134 (11): 1356–60. doi:10.1001/archderm.134.11.1356. PMID 9828868. 
  24. ^ Diehm C, Trampisch HJ, Lange S, Schmidt C (1996). "Comparison of leg compression stocking and oral Horse-chestnut seed extract therapy in patients with chronic venous insufficiency". Lancet 347 (8997): 292–4. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(96)90467-5. PMID 8569363. 
  25. ^ Murray MT. (1996). Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. NY: Three Rivers Press. pp. 326. 
  26. ^ "Brett in Hospital for Surgery". New York Times. March 1, 1981. http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0DE2DC1439F932A35750C0A967948260. 
  27. ^ "Kevin Smith Gossip, News, & Trivia". Celebrity Wonder.com. http://www.celebritywonder.com/html/kevinsmith_trivia1.html. 

27.Patience Paradox http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_g2603/is_0002/ai_2603000202

See also

External links

v • d • e
Cardiovascular disease: vascular disease · Circulatory system pathology (I70-I99, 440-459)
Arteries, arterioles
and capillaries
Other
Veins
Other
Arteries or veins
Lymphatic disease
Blood pressure


This entry is from Wikipedia, the leading user-contributed encyclopedia. It may not have been reviewed by professional editors (see full disclaimer)

 
Translations: Haemorrhoid
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Dansk (Danish)
n. - hæmorroide

Français (French)
n. - hémorroïdes

Deutsch (German)
n. - (Med.) Hämorrhoide

Ελληνική (Greek)
n. - αιμορροϊδα

Italiano (Italian)
emorroidi

Português (Portuguese)
n. - hemorróidas (f pl) (Med.)

Русский (Russian)
геморрой

Español (Spanish)
n. - hemorroides

Svenska (Swedish)
n. - (pl.) hemorrojder

中文（简体）(Chinese (Simplified))
痔疮

中文（繁體）(Chinese (Traditional))
n. - 痔瘡

한국어 (Korean)
n. - 치질

日本語 (Japanese)
n. - 痔
adj. - 痔の

עברית (Hebrew)
n. - ‮טחורים‬

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Wikipedia. This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Hemorrhoid".  Read more
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