Category Archives: Hemorrhoids
What To Eat and What to Avoid for Optimal Gut Health
Most Americans are concerned about their health to some degree. And while there are certain diseases that rightly get plenty of attention, others, including those of the colon don’t get nearly as much press as they deserve. In fact, colon cancer is a leading killer of men and women in the United States, but it also represents one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. Unfortunately, however, many patients do not prioritize their colon health the way they should. Cancer is not the only concern when it comes to colon health. Several conditions that affect the colon can be disruptive, or in some cases, even life-threatening if left untreated. While gut health is often a sign of general health, there are certain foods we can eat and others to avoid to keep our guts as healthy as possible, even in our later years.
What is a Hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids – Don’t Be Ashamed to Talk to Your Doctor
Talking about hemorrhoids can be a sensitive topic for some, but they don’t have to be. Remember, hemorrhoids are actually very common, with over 3 million cases a year.
A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein or veins in your lower rectum and anus. Almost 75% of adults will experience hemorrhoids due to a variety of causes. Causes of hemorrhoids can include straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting, a low fiber diet, or sometimes the cause is simply unknown.
Five Tips to Improving your Colon Health and Reducing the Risk of Colon Cancer
There are almost 150,000 cases of colon and rectal cancer each year, of which there are between 50,000 and 60,000 deaths. This makes colon cancer more deadly, in absolute terms, than breast cancer and prostate cancer. And yet, colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable diseases. Much of the increase in colon cancer occurrence is due to poor dietary and exercise habits that we, as a society, have adopted in the past several decades. Processed foods, amongst other poor dietary choices, have contributed to an obesity epidemic that has caused rates of colon cancer to increase dramatically through the mid-80s. Fortunately, better screening and education has mitigated some of this rise through the use of colonoscopy. As prevention is always better than even early treatment, here are our top five recommendations on reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Dr. Crean On News4Jax Discussing Stress Effects (Hemorrhoids) During COVID-19
Full Transcript, Slightly Edited for Ease of Reading
News4JAX – During this time of uncertainty, with COVID-19, it’s no surprise people are dealing with much added stress. Unfortunately, that can cause health problems, including hemorrhoid flare-ups. According to Harvard Health, more than 75% of people, ages 45 and older, have had hemorrhoids with symptoms like rectal pain, itching and bleeding after a bowel movement. Joining me now with more, is Dr. Alex Crean from Memorial Hospital. Dr. Crean, thank you so much for joining us this morning
Dr. Crean – Good morning Zack thank you for having me.
Is It a Hemorrhoid or Anal Fissure?
If you are experiencing painful passing of stool and noticing bright, red blood during your bowel movements, it is likely you have a hemorrhoid. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common reasons for a visit to a colorectal surgeon, like Dr. Alex Crean at MASJax. While hemorrhoids can be painful and irritating, the good news is they aren’t likely to cause long term damage. They can however be easily confused with anal fissures, cuts or tears in the lining of the anus. How can you tell the difference? With similar symptoms, it can be difficult for patients to determine what is going on. An exam by a trained colorectal physician will help you to get a clear diagnosis of your condition and find the best treatment for you, sooner rather than later.
