Clinical Characteristics of Hemorrhoids

Week 10 DQ 1: Hemorrhoids
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Week 10 DQ 1: Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are characterized by distended anal cushions and worsen with age as the ratio of matrix muscles changes with advancing years. Shankar and Satyaveni (2019) indicate that the disease presents various clinical features that vary from patient to patient. The commonplace ones comprise frequent constipation and stained stool during defecation. The authors add that some patients present with a prolapsed rectum, bleeding, and pain during evacuation. Other concerning symptoms comprise persistent itchiness or pruritis around the anal area. In rare instances, chronic cough may accompany these signs. As a result, hemorrhoids have area-specific clinical manifestations that inform clinical diagnosis.
The diagnosis process for hemorrhoids takes several steps. One of these is the collection of a thorough clinical history of the patient. According to Cengiz and Gorgun (2019), patient history should be detailed and highlight the duration, associated symptoms, severity, bowel movement frequency, and routine dietary practices. A healthcare provider should also conduct a physical examination termed the digital rectal exam. It involves assessing the sphincter toes, skin tags, lesions in the anal area, and perianal hygiene. During this process, the practiti...