If you suspect that you may be suffering from hemorrhoids, the first step for you to take is to understand all of the different hemorrhoid symptoms. By knowing the symptoms, you can start to identify whether your problem is indeed hemorrhoids or not.
One of the most common hemorrhoid symptoms is bleeding. If you are noticing any blood in your feces or undergarments, you may have a hemorrhoid problem. Bleeding happens because hemorrhoids themselves are swollen blood vessels in your rectum. When your blood vessels break it causes bleeding. Often, hemorrhoids are caused because you have constipation, so, if you are straining to have a bowel movement, you may break hemorrhoid vessels and bleed.
Prolapsed hemorrhoids are another of the common hemorrhoid symptoms. Hemorrhoids start out internally but they can extend to your anus and the outside of your body. That can cause you to be in pain, itch and swell up quite a bit. When that happens, you have prolapsed hemorrhoids. Prolapsed hemorrhoids also cause lumps to appear. The lumps are blood clots just under the surface of your skin. They are caused by bleeding just below the surface and can result in pain and discomfort.
Itching is another of the major hemorrhoid symptoms, which you may experience. Itching is, unfortunately a self-feeding problem for you. If your hemorrhoids are itchy it may be nearly impossible for you to resist the urge to scratch. Fortunately, there are creams available to help relieve some of that itchiness. However, such creams should only be used on a short term basis and are best used with a consulation by your doctor.
Another of the hemorrhoid symptoms that you may find yourself dealing with is an irritated reaction that can be triggered by several aspects of your lifestyle. For instance, sitting or standing for a long period of time, heavy lifting and exercise can all cause a strain on the muscles in your rectum. Also, as with itching, if you rub or clean the area it may cause your hemorrhoids to become more swollen and irritated.
The good news is that, hemorrhoid symptoms can be treated. All you need to do is consult your doctor for advice. You can also try adapting your diet as well. No matter what is causing your hemorrhoids, there are treatments available for this uncomfortable, painful and embarrassing problem.
