Hemroids themselves are a shock to most of us, but we usually learn to live with them (albeit begrudgingly) due to their quite everyday signs of existence (itchiness and irritation). However, extra undue panic is often created through the quite explicit symptoms that come with the minority of these pests: blood. Bleeding hemroids can conjure all sorts of terrible thoughts, but usually there’s actually nothing to worry about. Hemorrhoids bleeding are just a sign of their physical location, not their severity.

Hemroids are common, annoying and here to stay. In fact, most of the time we simply ‘deal’ with them via the application of a cream, and continue with our everyday lives. The hemorrhoids that we usually encounter are external hemroids. These seldom bleed but are just a general nuisance. Internal hemroids are most often the culprits with regards to bleeding. They are no worse medically, but due to their location (the intestinal wall) they possess a greater number of blood vessels than external hemorrhoids. This, combined with the thin nature of the intestinal wall means that they’re liable to bleed with the smallest of irritations.

Bleeding hemroids often don’t hurt, as the intestine has fewer nerves than other parts of the body. If one discovers blood in the toilet bowl after defecating, there’s a good chance that this is due to hemorrhoids. In saying this, one should never blindly assume: A bleeding anus could be symptomatic of a number of ailments, so a doctor’s opinion should always be sought, should there be any concern or doubt. In the likely event that this is due to hemroids, the worry should be over. Pesky? Yes. Serious? No.

Dealing with bleeding hemroids can be a multi-angle approach. Firstly, increasing fibre intake means that our digestive system is moving in a more regular manner. This means that bowel movements are softer and therefore act as less of an irritant to the intestinal wall (where internal hemorrhoids reside). An increase in water intake should also accompany this fibre-boost, as the fibre requires more water to remain soft.

Cutting down on caffeine is another must, as caffeine’s diuretic nature means that it will dehydrate the body (and therefore the intestine) – doing hemorrhoids no good at all. Either way, when treating internal hemorrhoids, one should never apply creams or ointments intended for external use.

 Toilet trips should be a productive affair; if bowel movement doesn’t occur after five minutes, one should pause the attempt and take a brisk walk. Attempt again when you feel more comfortable. Never try to force defecation, as the unnatural straining can cause further hemorrhoid bleeding.
Likewise, if underwear is too tight problems may arise. Wear loosely-fitted, baggy underwear and clothing so that no unnecessary external influence is acting on the bowels. As a general point, you should be extra-diligent with regards to any suspiciously ‘miraculous’ assertions regarding hemorrhoids – all medication should be medically prescribed and understood by you, the patient. Good health, medical advice and a caring approach will see that hemroids are eliminated in no time.