Hemorrhoids Health Article

Alternative treatment

Like mainstream practitioners, alternative practitioners stress the importance of a high-fiber diet. To prevent hemorrhoids by strengthening the veins of the anus, rectum, and colon, they recommend blackberries, blueberries, cherries, vitamin C, butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), and flavonoids (plant pigments found in fruit and fruit products, tea, and soy). Herbal teas, ointments, and suppositories, and other kinds of herbal preparations, are suggested for reducing discomfort and eliminating hemorrhoids. In particular, pilewort (Ranunculusficaria), applied in an ointment or taken as a tea, can reduce the pain of external hemorrhoids. Acupuncture, acupressure, aromatherapy, and homeopathy are also used to treat hemorrhoids.

Prognosis

Hemorrhoids do not cause cancer and are rarely dangerous or life threatening. Most clear up after a few days without professional medical treatment. However, because colorectal cancer and other digestive system diseases can cause anal bleeding and other hemorrhoid-like symptoms, people should always consult a doctor when those symptoms occur.

Prevention

A high-fiber diet and the other lifestyle changes recommended for coping with existing hemorrhoids also help to prevent hemorrhoids. Not straining during bowel movements is essential.

BOOKS

Billingham, Richard P. "Hemorrhoids, Anal Fissure, and Anorectal Abscess and Fistula." In Conn's Current Therapy, 1996, ed. Robert E. Rakel. Philadelphia: W. B. Saunders Co., 1996.

Burton Goldberg Group. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. Puyallup, WA: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc.,1993.

PERIODICALS

Pfenninger, John L. "Modern Treatments for Internal Haemorrhoids." British Medical Journal 314 (1997): 1211+.

Surrell, James. "Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Internal Hemorrhoids." American Family Physician (Sept. 1995): 821+.

ORGANIZATIONS

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 2 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3570. (800) 891-5389. <http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/digest/nddic.htm>.

Howard Baker

KEY TERMS

Anus—The opening at the lower end of the rectum. The anus and rectum are both part of the large intestine, a digestive system organ.

Colon—The major part of the large intestine, a digestive system organ.

Defecation—Passage of feces through the anus.

Embolism—Obstruction of blood flow in an artery by a blood clot or other substance arising from another site. An untreated embolism can endanger health and even cause death.

Enema—The introduction of water or another liquid into the bowels through a tube inserted into the anus. Enemas are used to treat constipation and for other purposes.

Feces—Undigested food and other waste that is eliminated through the anus. Also called stools.

Rectum—The lower section of the large intestine, a digestive system organ. After food has passed through the stomach and intestines and been digested, the leftover material, in the form of feces, enters the rectum, where it stays until defecation.

Suppository—A medicinal substance that slowly dissolves after being inserted into the rectum (or other body cavity).