Commonly known as piles, Hemorrhoids are an ailment of the lower gastrointestinal system. They are swollen, protruding veins, similar in nature to varicose veins. Causes of hemorrhoids can be several and they can either develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).
Statistically, nearly three out of four adults would develop hemorrhoids from time to time, especially in older ages. While the causes of Hemorrhoids can be several, they often remain unknown. 
Diagnosing hemorrhoids may also often be difficult as the plight of the disease is different for different individuals. Fortunately, effective options are available to treat hemorrhoids. Many people get relief by resorting to home treatments and lifestyle changes.
What are some of the causes of hemorrhoids?
While causes of Hemorrhoids may be various, they produce the same effect that leads to this disease. Piles usually occur when you exert too much pressure on the veins around your anus. Possible factors include:
- family history of hemorrhoids
- straining during a bowel movement
- complications from chronic constipation
- sitting in a constant position for a long period of time, especially on the toilet
Symptoms that cause hemorrhoids manifest:
Hemorrhoids have different types, and so the signs and symptoms usually depend on the type of hemorrhoid.
Internal hemorrhoids:
Protruding veins may not visibly protrude out. Doctors call this condition; internal hemorrhoids as they lie inside the rectum. You can’t see or feel them, nor do they cause any apparent or physical discomfort. However, going for a dump may irritate them, causing:
- painless bleeding during bowel movements. You might notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet. However, it’s essential for women to ensure the blood is not from their menstruation cycles.
- hemorrhoids push through the anal opening, causing pain and irritation.
External hemorrhoids:
Hemorrhoids that protrude out and are present under the skin around your anus are known as external hemorrhoids. Signs and symptoms might include:
- Bleeding
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around your anus
- Itching or irritation in your anal region
Thrombosed hemorrhoids:
This is a complication of external hemorrhoids. If the leaking blood pools in external hemorrhoid and forms a clot or a thrombus, it can result in:
- Swelling
- Severe pain
- Inflammation
- A hard lump near your anus
Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids?
The diagnosis of hemorrhoids can be made merely from the visual examination of your anus only. However, to confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may have to carry out a rectal examination to rule out any other abnormalities within the anus.
During the rectal exam, your doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum and moves it around to confirm the ailment. Depending upon your cause of hemorrhoids or other risk factors, you may be advised additional tests like an anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy.
All of the above are invasive procedures and require the doctor to insert miniature fiber-optic cameras to diagnose any abnormalities in your anus, rectum, or colon. With this test, your doctor gets a clear view of the inside of your rectum so that they can examine hemorrhoids up close.
When to see a doctor?
Rectal bleeding in itself is a medical emergency that needs immediate and effective medical care. If you have any bleeding during bowel movements or change in the color or consistency of your stools, immediately refer to a doctor. Any rectal bleeding associated with lightheadedness, dizziness, and faintness is also a medical
emergency requiring dire care.
Moreover, if you are a diagnosed case of hemorrhoids and are not improving upon home remedies, talk to your doctor for better solutions or use Life Changer Seat, the best treatment of hemorrhoids.