Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
 Hemorrhoids are inflamed rectal tissues in which the blood vessels, especially the rectal veins, become swollen mainly due to consistent and excessive strain. While external hemorrhoids are visible and can be felt with hands, internal hemorrhoids cannot be observed outside the anal canal unless they get excessively large and protrude out of the anus. Such a case of the internal hemorrhoids is called prolapsed hemorrhoid.
Symptoms of Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
A prolapsed hemorrhoid usually appears as a red mass of tissue, wet and usually covered with rectal mucose, protruding out of anus. These prolapsed tissues appear almost scary and gross, and they give a feeling of general discomfort. In most cases, however, a prolapsed hemorrhoid would remain either painless or nearly painless. In some cases, it may develop a blood clot and become thrombosed. In these cases, prolapsed hemorrhoid can be quite painful.
Degrees of Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Medically, three degrees of prolapsed hemorrhoid are generally recognized, namely second, third, and fourth degrees of hemorrhoids. The first degree hemorrhoid is also internal hemorrhoids but one that does not protrude out of the anal canal and hence not a prolapsed hemorrhoid. The second degree of prolapsed hemorrhoid is one that retracts on its own without requiring any special treatment. The case of the third degree prolapsed hemorrhoid is a little worse; it needs to be placed back manually inside the anal canal. The most severe prolapsed hemorrhoid is that of the fourth degree which cannot be replaced and they hang out from the anus all the time.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoid Treatment
The commonly used method for internal hemorrhoid treatment involves the use of a medicated suppository that soothes the inflammation of the veins. But in the case of a prolapsed hemorrhoid, the patient usually needs to apply an ointment locally for symptomatic hemorrhoid relief. In severe cases of prolapsed hemroidal tissues, surgery may be necessary to remove the hemorrhoid and prevent infection or possible development of other serious diseases, like cancer, in the affected tissues.
Helpful Guidelines for Prolapsed Hemorrhoid Patients
Strain of the vessels in the rectal area has been found as the root cause of hemorrhoids, both external and internal. Various causes that lead to this strain include: digestive problems (constipation, diarrhea etc.); strenuous sports or other activities that stress the rectal veins (mountain biking for example); old age and/or diseases; and pregnancy (in women). To prevent or decrease the severity of hemorrhoids, including prolapsed hemorrhoid, it is helpful to maintain proper bowel movements by drinking plenty of fluids daily, particularly clean water. Eating a fiber-rich diet (more vegetables, whole grains, and fruits) helps in keeping the bowel movements soft. Moderate but regular exercise also keeps the blood vessels healthy and is helpful in preventing strain.
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