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What is your understanding of the term "hemorrhoids"?

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Hemorrhoids or piles, as we say in Urdu ‘bawaseer,’ is a painful condition that many people face, but everyone feels awkward to talk about it. As a science student, I think this is a topic that people should discuss because it is a medical condition too, and this contest would be a great chance through which we can spread awareness.

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To begin with, what actually are hemorrhoids? They are actually veins that become inflamed around our rectum and anus. When they become inflamed, they tend to swell up, and at times it can become so awful that there would be pain and bleeding.

Moreover, there are two types of hemorrhoids i.e. internal and external. The former one occurs inside the rectum, and the latter one occurs outside the anus. The external is more painful because it can be seen on the surface, and can be aggravated more when it is touched.

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Could you list the primary causes of hemorrhoids?

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There are a few main reasons that trigger this condition of hemorrhoids. Let's look in detail at why hemorrhoids actually occur.

• The biggest problem is constipation. When you have difficulty passing stools and have to strain, it puts pressure on the veins around the rectum and anus. This pressure causes the veins to swell up or become inflamed, which can lead to hemorrhoids. So, if you frequently suffer from constipation, the risk of getting hemorrhoids increases.

• Sometimes it has also been observed that some families have a greater tendency for hemorrhoids. If there is a family history of hemorrhoid issues, you may also develop this problem.

• Overweight or excessive weight also causes a burden or excessive load on your pelvic portion and the veins. It also tends to increase the blood pressure in the veins landing you on hemorrhoids, so you must watch your weight.

• One of the common problems women face during pregnancy is hemorrhoids, which are also caused by the changes in hormones and blood volume in the body during that time. In addition, the growing uterus puts pressure on the pelvic veins, and thus, the veins start to swell.

• Sometimes it occurs without the cause, so regular physical activity is important for better blood flow and a properly working digestive system. Failure to engage in physical exercise consistently affects the digestive system and the blood circulation, which can result in the form of hemorrhoids condition.

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Is it possible to treat hemorrhoids? If so, could you elaborate on the methods and approaches used for treatment?

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Yes, hemorrhoids can be treated, and there are several ways to do it depending on the extent of the disease and the symptoms. Now, I will tell you what treatments are usually used to treat hemorrhoids.

If the symptoms and extent of hemorrhoids are not strong, then simple home treatments can help and make a big contribution. The patient must adhere to a high fiber diet. It means that patients should eat food high in fibers since fibers will prevent and stop constipation. Feces are softened by fiber, and not inflamed, causing less strain during bowel movement. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans are high in fiber. In addition, such patients should drink plenty of water to maintain hydration and keep the stool soft, which helps reduce hemorrhoids. And taking warm water baths several times a day (just immersing the hips and buttocks in water) reduces inflammation and provides relief from swelling. These baths are often taken after passing stools.

However, if home remedies do not improve the condition and the problem worsens, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Sometimes, if the condition becomes severe, surgery may be required, but such cases are very rare. Generally, simple changes and care can make a difference.

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What do hemorrhoids typically look like?

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In my opinion, everyone can clearly see what hemorrhoids look like from the thumbnail image in the contest announcement post. Just by looking at the picture, you can imagine how painful they must be.

External hemorrhoids are located outside the anus, and you can often feel them yourself when you touch the area. Their color is usually bright red because they are located under the external skin, and the blood vessels make them appear red.

Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, and typically they cannot be seen directly unless they are in a severe condition. They are soft and their color is pink or red. Normally, they are not very noticeable unless they prolapse, meaning they protrude out of the rectum.

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Has anyone in your family been diagnosed with this condition? If so, could you share their experiences?

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Fortunately, no one in my family or among my close relatives suffered from this disease so, I cannot share any personal experience. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that if a person initially takes care of himself and his lifestyle, then it is not so difficult to prevent this problem. He needs to adjust his life, and the rest will cope with his own body or health. Moreover, it is not a sin to talk about this illness. Discuss it. Spread the word. After all, health is essential for everyone, and being open about it is equally important.

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I trust that you found the information in my article to be valuable. 😊

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^{I would like to invite @irawandedy, @steemdoctor1, @edgargonzalez, @sahmie and @chasad75 to join this contest through this link, if they have not already taken part in it.}

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^{Author: @waqarahmadshah | Date: 13-Apr-2024 | Achievement 1}