Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels near the anus and lower rectum (lower part of the large intestine). These blood vessels are found in spongy cushions of tissue just under the lining of the anal canal. Hemorrhoids bleed when the blood vessels rupture (for example, from straining during a bowel movement). Because bleeding can be a sign of colon cancer or colon polyps, you should consult with your doctor whenever you have bleeding from the rectum, blood in your stools, or blood in the toilet after a bowel movement. Your doctor might recommend a visual examination of the lower colon (sigmoidoscopy) or entire colon (colonoscopy).

The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft so they pass easily without any straining. Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids (six to eight glasses of fluids each day) can help you stay regular and help your stools remain soft, reducing constipation and lowering the risk of developing new hemorrhoids.

Eating a balanced diet can help you avoid digestive discomfort. Unhealthy diets can contribute to digestive system difficulties. Many people eat too much processed food and sugar, and not enough fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Be sure to get adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet.

Many digestive problems can be prevented with lifestyle changes. Poor eating habits, such as eating too quickly or skipping meals, can result in digestive discomfort. Be sure to eat food slowly, chewing thoroughly. You might want to try eating several small meals throughout the day to help lessen any symptoms of digestive discomfort.

Encourage your loved one to seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear. Immediate treatment can help in relieving as much discomfort as possible. Diarrhea, vomiting, poor absorption of nutrients, and side effects of drug treatment all might lead to malnutrition. If the symptoms do not get better after a few days or if they are very severe, call a doctor to ensure that your loved one receives proper evaluation and treatment.

Celiac disease (also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy) is a digestive and autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder is one in which the immune system directs antibodies to attack the body. The antibody of celiac disease is formed after exposure to gluten, a protein found in grains. In people who have celiac disease, the immune system causes damage to the small intestine and prevents the proper absorption of nutrients from food.