haemorroids

[derek6]

what are they and what causes them

[andy-hughes]

They are enlarged blood vessels in the inner walls of the rectum. Occasionally they bleed a little, an can itch - cream from any pharmacist will sort this out.

They are not serious in themselves - usually caused by a lack of roughage in the diet. Sufferers shoul eat whole grain cereails, and fuit and veg.

People in midle age often find the incidence of haemerroids (also called piles) increases, and frequent troublesome occurences should be referrerd to a GP. In some cases, a small surgical operation can be used to 'strangle' the veins, a small elastic band is place around the protrusion, and in seven to ten days, the protrusion, and the band, fall off as a motion is passed.

Sufferers should avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods, and straining to pass motions is to be avoided as well.

Any serious probs., see a doctor, because rectal bleeding can indicate other conditions which may need treatment.