There are two types of haemorrhoids. Internal haemorrhoids are swollen due to hypertension or high blood pressure in the veins found inside the anal wall. External haemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur at either the anal opening, or inside the anus but hang out. A person can have both internal and external haemorrhoids at the same time, or just one type. 

Symptoms include itching, pain, and sensitivity of the rectum. Inflammation of the anal area can make it painful to cleanse. Streaks of bright red blood or mucus on the toilet paper are a sign of rectal bleeding caused by haemorrhoids. Usually symptoms in a mild case will disappear on their own in a few days. If the problem persists, there are treatment options available to relieve the symptoms.

Depending on the severity of the condition, haemorrhoids may be treated at home. There are topical creams available that can reduce swelling and relieve itching. Sitz baths can also relieve symptoms. A sitz bath can be done in a bathtub or large basin. More serious cases and internal haemorrhoids may need to be treated by a doctor. 

Doctors can perform a haemorroidectomy on patients with more severe cases of haemorrhoids. The surgeon will use either a scalpel to cut them away or a staple gun. It is important that the blood vessels that supply the varicose veins are not bleeding, and the doctor will monitor this during recovery. Patients who receive treatment with the staple gun may go home the same day, while those who needed to be treated with a scalpel will go home in 24-48 hours.

There are many things people can do to prevent the occurrence of haemorrhoids. Eating a diet rich in fiber and drinking plenty of fluids are the first steps to having healthy stools and regular bowel movements. The importance of regular bowel movements should not be understated. Lack of fiber and fluids in a diet can cause a person to end up straining to pass their stools. This is the number one cause of haemorrhoids.

Good sources of fiber are whole grains like bran and brown rice, nuts and seeds, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. There are also over-the-counter fiber supplements available. To ensure sufficient fluid intake, people should drink at least eight 8oz glasses of water and consume foods with high water content like melons and cucumbers.

Pregnant women are also more prone to haemorrhoids thanks to the added weight and pressure on the rectum. Pregnant women should avoid sitting on the toilet for too long as this adds more pressure. Fortunately, pregnancy-related haemorrhoids tend to clear up after delivery and hardly ever require surgery.

Prevent haemorrhoids with smart diet choices and maintaining healthy bowel movement function. If haemorrhoid symptoms become bothersome, over-the-counter remedies can help, and consult a doctor.