Hemorrhoids
If the hemorrhoid originates at the top (rectal side) of the anal canal, it is referred to as an internal hemorrhoid. If it originates at the lower end of the anal canal near the anus, it is referred to as an external hemorrhoid. Technically, the differentiation between internal and external hemorrhoids is made on the basis of whether the hemorrhoid originates above or below the dentate line (internal and external, respectively).
As discussed previously, hemorrhoidal cushions in the upper anal canal are made up of blood vessels and their supporting tissues. There usually are three major hemorrhoidal cushions oriented right posterior, right anterior, and left lateral. During the formation of enlarged internal hemorrhoids, the vessels of the anal cushions swell and the supporting tissues increase in size. The bulging mass of tissue and blood vessels protrudes into the anal canal where it can cause problems. Unlike with internal hemorrhoids, it is not clear how external hemorrhoids form.
Hemorrhoid Condition
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, painful veins in your rectum.
Hemorrhoids develop from 2 different places. There are 2 sets of veins that drain the blood from the lower rectum and anus.
The internal veins can become swollen to form internal hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids, unless they are severe, cannot be seen or felt, unlike external hemorrhoids.
Likewise, the external veins can swell to form external hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids can be seen around the outside of the anus and, many times, can be felt
· Hemorrhoid Causes
· Hemorrhoids are associated with constipation and straining at bowel movements as well as pregnancy. It is thought that these conditions lead to increased pressure in the hemorrhoid veins, thus causing them to swell. Liver disease can also cause increased pressure in the veins and also cause hemorrhoids.
· Hemorrhoids are very common and have been estimated to occur in up to half the population by age 50 years.
Hemorrhoid Symptoms
The symptoms of hemorrhoids are fairly straightforward. The most common complaint from internal hemorrhoids is painless bleeding. You will see bright red blood on the outside of your stool, on the toilet, or dripping into the toilet. The bleeding usually does not last long.
Hemorrhoids may lead to a condition called prolapsed hemorrhoids.
This occurs when the internal hemorrhoids swell and then extend through the anus.
You then can feel the hemorrhoids, at your anus, from the outside.
Many times you can gently push the hemorrhoids back through the anus and solve the problem.
If the hemorrhoids cannot be pushed back, then they may swell even more and become trapped outside of the anus.
If your hemorrhoids become entrapped, then you will need to see a doctor.
You may develop itching in your anus from prolapsed hemorrhoids. This condition is called pruritus ani.
External hemorrhoids may form a painful condition called thrombosed hemorrhoids.
