HALO | New Treatment For Piles

lifestyle.yahoo 28 May 2010 1608 blogs, health
A new procedure to treat haemorrhoidsis available, called haemorrhoid artery ligation operation (HALO). Before explaining the procedure and its benefits, here is some background material on haemorrhoids. [b]What are haemorrhoids?[/b] Haemorrhoids (also know as piles) are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus (back passage). These swollen vessels can cause pain, irritation and discomfort. They can also bleed and discharge mucus. [b]What causes haemorrhoids (piles)?[/b] The cause of haemorrhoids is increased blood pressure in the blood vessels of the rectum and anus. This can can result from straining when on the toilet. Other factors include: lack of fibre in your diet; being overweight; being constipated on a regular basis; regularly lifting heavy objects ; being are over the age of 50; pregnancy; having prolonged diarrhoea. [b]Are haemorrhoids common?[/b] Yes, ov/er 50% of the population will suffer from haemorrhoids at one time or another. [b]What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?[/b] There are various symptoms, and often people are not aware that they have haemorrhoids, and they can go away on their own in a few days. Symptoms include: * itchiness around your anus * discomfort around your anus, such as feeling sore or it being visibly red * excessive straining when passing a stool * bleeding after you have passed a stool * discharge of mucus present after passing a stool * pain while passing a stool * feeling like your bowels are still full and need emptying

Source: