Hemorrhoids Symptoms

It is estimated that one in two people learn about the annoying symptoms of hemorrhoids in the course of their lives. Despite this, most sufferers keep quiet about their hemorrhoid symptoms out of shame. In this article you will learn everything about symptoms, treatment and causes of hemorrhoids.

What are hemorrhoids?

The intestine of a human being consists of different parts: It begins at the stomach as the small intestine, becomes the large intestine, and at its end becomes the rectum, leading outward as the anus. At the transition from the rectum to the anus is a circular vascular cushion, the hemorrhoidal corpus cavernosum or the hemorrhoidal plexus. This, together with the sphincter muscle, forms the sealing ring of the anus. The sphincter prevents the leakage of solid stool, and the corpus cavernosum prevents the leakage of liquids and gases. Bright red arterial blood flows in the hemorrhoids, which flows out of the sphincter muscle when it is relaxed, i.e. during defecation, and flows back after defecation is finished, thus closing the anus.

Internal and external hemorrhoids.

If this system is disturbed or blood flow is obstructed, the vascular cushion may enlarge. This condition is referred to in medical jargon as hemorrhoidal disease or internal hemorrhoids. Anal thromboses, on the other hand, often called external hemorrhoids in the vernacular, are not hemorrhoids in the true sense of the word, but harmless but painful lumps at the edge of the anus caused by a burst vein. They often develop into small flaps of skin called mariscs as they heal.

What causes hemorrhoids?

A particularly common cause of hemorrhoids is a diet that tends to be low in fiber, which, along with a lack of exercise, leads to constipation. As a result, there is a strong and long squeeze during bowel movements, which overstretches the blood vessels in the rectum and enlarges the vascular cushion. With constant overstretching, bulges eventually form in the rectum and anus. In addition, there is often a hereditary weakness of the connective tissue. A congenital lack of elasticity favors the development of bulges. Chronic diarrhea (laxatives) can also lead to hemorrhoids as a cause, since the thin liquid stool does not sufficiently exercise the fine motor skills of the intestinal closure system. Due to great pressure on the rectum or in the abdomen, blood outflow in the hemorrhoidal plexus is obstructed and the plexus is overstretched. This can be fueled by obesity or even severe, prolonged coughing.

Typical symptoms of hemorrhoids

The symptoms of hemorrhoids often appear at the beginning in the form of itching, wetness and burning at the anus. In a more advanced stage, hemorrhoids may also bleed, which is indicated by bright blood on the stool. Severe pain is also possible. Hemorrhoids are divided into four stages depending on their severity and symptoms, and treatment is based on these stages:

  • Grade I: The hemorrhoids are not yet externally visible or palpable and are expressed only in a slight swelling, which is sometimes accompanied by itching, oozing and burning in the anal area. The vascular cushions are already enlarged.
  • Grade II: The hemorrhoids are squeezed out during defecation, but withdraw by themselves. Noticeable is sometimes the discharge of bright red blood with the stool. Strong itching, burning and mucus secretions are other features at this stage.
  • Grade III and IV: The hemorrhoids can no longer retract on their own, but at best can be pushed back (grade III). In addition to the severe pain and burning, there is inflammation of the anal mucosa. In addition, a foreign body sensation may occur.

Although the discomfort can be relieved by hemorrhoid ointments or suppositories, which are available over the counter in pharmacies. Nevertheless, a visit to the doctor is inevitable in the case of hemorrhoids – especially bleeding can also be an indication of an intestinal tumor. This intestinal tumor must be excluded in any case expertly.

Hemorrhoids during pregnancy

Among possible causes of hemorrhoids is pregnancy. Many women have problems with hemorrhoids during pregnancy because the pelvic floor is loosened, which can promote the development of hemorrhoids. In addition, the baby presses on the rectum. Hemorrhoids may still persist after the child is born.

Hemorrhoids in old age

In old age, hemorrhoids are more common because the elasticity of the tissue decreases and the vessels fill more with blood.Normal reflux is reduced. Vascular nodules are favored in this way. A predominantly sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting in general also promotes hemorrhoids because sitting can cause blood to pool below the waist.