Hemorrhoids ... Myths and Facts
Copyright 2004, Ginacor, Inc.

Myth #1: Hemorrhoids are rare.
Fact: Hemorrhoids are very common in men and women. In fact, The National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse says, about half of the population by the age of 50 has hemorrhoids.

Myth #2: You always know when you have hemorrhoids.
Fact: Many people do not realize they have hemorrhoids since they may produce no symptoms. However, the most common problems are bleeding and prolapse, less common are itching and pain.

Myth #3: There is only one type of hemorrhoid.
Fact: There are two types of hemorrhoids: those that occur outside the anus and can be seen (external type) or those that occur inside the rectum and cannot be seen (internal type).

Myth #4: There is not much you can do to prevent hemorrhoids.
Fact: There is a lot one can do to prevent hemorrhoids. See hints and tips.

Myth #5: Hemorrhoids can only be helped with medication and/or surgery.
Fact: There are a number of natural treatments for hemorrhoids without using medications or surgery. See hints and tips.

Myth #6: Hemorrhoids are not serious.
Fact: Hemorrhoids can be serious. Notify your health care provider if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Severe, acute bleeding that you cannot control
• Bleeding that lasts more than a week
• Severe pain lasting more than a few hours