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Myths Surrounding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids exist internally in all of us. However, the problems occur when these hemorrhoids become external. There are many myths regarding hemorrhoids, to include contraction of them, prevention and treatment.

Hemorrhoids exist internally in all of us. However, the problems occur when these hemorrhoids become external. There are veins and blood vessels in the anal canal. When triggered, these veins or blood vessels drop from the anal canal into the surrounding area and become external hemorrhoids. At this point, an individual will begin to feel discomfort, possibly itching, burning or even bleeding.

One of the myths that exist regarding hemorrhoids is that personal hygiene if the cause.

This is not true; in fact it has little to do with it. When the inflammation occurs forming external hemorrhoids, this is usually related to hardening of the stool, prolonged straining during regular bowel movements, having too much fiber in your diet, pregnancy where the baby is restricting your body or blood clots forming in the areas due to these issues. Personal hygiene while not a cause, it may be helpful in prevention or treatment.

Another myth is that hemorrhoids are caused by sexual activity. The truth is that most sexual acts, including anal sex will not cause hemorrhoids or cause internal hemorrhoids to become external hemorrhoids.

Another myth is that hemorrhoids are caused by prolonged sitting or driving, performing manual labor or eating spicy foods. Again this is not true. As discussed, hemorrhoids usually form from strain on the veins in the anal canal. Therefore, these methods would not lead to hemorrhoids. While eating spicy foods may cause diarrhea or constipation, the foods alone do not usually cause the hemorrhoids.

The next myth that should be dispelled is that hemorrhoids are contagious. They are not contagious.

As relates to cancer, there is no relationship between hemorrhoids and cancer. Cancer is caused by cells that divide and are out of control in the body. Hemorrhoids are enlarged and swollen rectal veins. Although rectal bleeding maybe a symptom of hemorrhoids, this should only be a minor symptom and should be treated if it persists.

Anyone can have hemorrhoids, not just elderly people. As stated above, hemorrhoids are weak rectal veins that become inflamed and swollen. In most people, these vein walls grow weaker as you age, which does make you more susceptible to hemorrhoids. However, hemorrhoids are usually caused by bad bathroom habits, poor diets, prolonged periods of sitting and standing and not old age.

Finally, if you have hemorrhoids, individuals will remain from having a bowel movement. This is fact is not advised and may make the hemorrhoids worse. With constipation, an individual may strain and increase the external hemorrhoid pain and pressure.

Tags: cancer, common, contraction of hemorrhoids, hemorrhoids, internal or external, misconceptions, myths, personal hygiene, prevention

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