Hemorrhoids in Children
... not just an oldie problem

Cases of hemorrhoids in children (manifested by swelling of veins in the anus) can develop even though, based on statistics, most people who suffer from hemorrhoids are between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. In children, this is usually due to constipation and chronic straining during bowel movements. 

Hemorrhoids in children manifest the same way as they do in adults, though boys are more susceptible than girls. This trend continues until adulthood. The same symptoms of bright red streaks in stools (bleeding hemorrhoids), itching and pain in the anal region are experienced.

Since it seems unlikely to find hemorrhoids in children, you can only imagine the reaction of parents when bleeding occurs, but no lump is visible on the anus to reassure parents that what their child has is only hemorrhoids. There are times when it's hard for parents to understand what their child is going through because their child may be unable to communicate their experience. That is why when children are involved, the best move is to seek medical advice for correct diagnosis and proper intervention.  

There are a lot of ways to alleviate hemorrhoids in children. You can provide your children with home relief measures. For pain and swelling, apply cold compress on the affected area or give them warm baths. Make sure to thoroughly dry the anal area in between baths and toilet breaks.

You should enforce good hygiene at all times. Scratching ones butt due to itching and discomfort is usually hard to resist by children. It is your responsibility to make them understand that they have to avoid scratching in order to heal.

Help your children understand by trying to explain the condition that they have. Explain to them what they should do and not do in order for their hemorrhoids to heal and from recurring. Tell them to avoid straining when passing stools. Teach them that they should have a regular bowel movement. You would be surprised how smart kids are now.  

If you observe they are prone to constipation, maybe it is time to evaluate the diet of your children. Prepare meals that are high in fiber such as:

• lentils
• oats
• beans
• prunes
• spinach
• brussels sprouts
• broccoli
• wheat breads
• raspberries
• pear
• apple
• strawberries
• banana
• orange
• raisins

Always make sure that children are well hydrated by making them drink water at least six glasses a day. You can also offer fluids in the form of soups, broths and juices.  

Even though symptoms are the same for adults and children, the pain tolerance of children are a lot lower than in adults. That is why more caution should be exercised when choosing the treatment for children.

There are many safe and effective treatment options for children. Remember, surgery must be avoided at all costs and should only be an option during emergencies. Surgeries in children sometimes do not only cause physical trauma but also emotional trauma.

So, if your children have the asymptomatic type, the best action is no action - meaning just leave it alone and it will heal on its own.

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