Hemorrhoids also called as piles are the swollen veins of anus and rectum. Whites were affected more frequently than blacks and increased prevalence rates were associated with higher socioeconomic status.
Causes:
- Straining during bowel movement
- Sitting for long period of time on toilet
- Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Anal intercourse
- Low fiber diet
Symptoms:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movement
- Itching and irritation in anal region
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around anus
- Lump near anus which is sensitive and painful
Tests:
- Digital examination
- Visual inspection
Statistics:
10 million people in the United States complained of hemorrhoids, corresponding to a prevalence rate of 4.4%.
In both genders, a peak in prevalence was noted from age 45-65yrs, with a subsequent decrease after age 65 yr.
The development of hemorrhoids before age 20 yr was unusual.
This was in contrast to the epidemiology of constipation, which demonstrated an exponential increase in prevalence after age 65 yr and was more common in blacks and in families with low incomes or low social status.