Hemorrhoids Explained
Introduction
Hemorrhoids is a very common condition – around half of the population of Western countries will get hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. It is usually not a serious one, however, and many people do not experience any symptoms even though they have it.
But for those who do experience symptoms, hemorrhoids can make their lives a misery, especially once they become painful. Many of the common commercial remedies, whether over-the-counter or obtained on prescription, provide only temporary relief. Surgery is also rarely successful.
What is needed is a comprehensive approach that both provides effective symptomatic relief and tackles the underlying causes. Once the hemorrhoids have been cleared up, a program of prevention is then required to stop them recurring.
This site aims to provide a guide to hemorrhoids: what they are, their symptoms, their causes, and common methods for prevention, relief and treatment. It also provides brief descriptions of other conditions that may be confused with hemorrhoids because they generate similar symptoms.
Spelling
Hemorrhoids is the correct spelling in US English; haemorrhoids is the spelling in British English. In both versions of English the condition is also commonly referred to as piles. The main reference pages of this site use the US spelling, to cater for the largest audience, while future pages are planned that will use the other spellings, to help others find the site too.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is believed to be accurate and is presented in good faith. The writers do not have any specialist medical training, however, and the information has been gathered from other websites and other sources that are believed to be reputable and reliable.
Before attempting a self-diagnosis or undertaking a course of self-treatment, therefore, you should consult a suitably qualified medical professional, such as your doctor, to obtain both confirmation of your diagnosis and advice on potential courses of treatment taking account your medical history.