Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be internal or external, depending on their location.

What are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are cushions of tissue that contain blood vessels and are located in the anal canal. They help to control bowel movements and prevent leakage of stool. However, when these cushions become inflamed or swollen, they can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding.

Types of Haemorrhoids

There are two main types of haemorrhoids:

• Internal Haemorrhoids: These occur inside the anal canal and are not visible or felt. They can cause bleeding during bowel movements, but are usually painless.
• External Haemorrhoids: These occur outside the anal canal and can be seen and felt. They can cause pain, itching, and discomfort, especially when thrombosed (when a blood clot forms inside the haemorrhoid).

Symptoms of Haemorrhoids

The symptoms of haemorrhoids can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Bleeding during bowel movements
• Pain or discomfort in the anal area
• Itching or irritation in the anal area
• Swelling or lumps around the anus
• Leakage of stool or mucus
• Difficulty cleaning the anal area after bowel movements

Causes and Risk Factors of Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Constipation or straining during bowel movements
• Prolonged sitting or standing
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Aging
• Genetics
• Low-fiber diet

Treatments for Haemorrhoids

Treatment for haemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition and can include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Creams, ointments, or suppositories that can help reduce pain, itching, and inflammation.
• Rubber Band Ligation: A procedure where a rubber band is placed around the haemorrhoid to cut off blood flow and cause it to fall off.
• Sclerotherapy: A procedure where a chemical solution is injected into the haemorrhoid to shrink it.
• Coagulation Therapy: A procedure where a special device is used to heat or freeze the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgery to remove the haemorrhoid, usually performed on large or severe cases.

Home Remedies for Haemorrhoids

In addition to medical treatments, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms of haemorrhoids, including:

• Taking warm baths or sitz baths
• Applying ice packs or cold compresses
• Using witch hazel or aloe vera to reduce itching and inflammation
• Eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
• Avoiding heavy lifting or straining

Prevention of Haemorrhoids

To prevent haemorrhoids, it is recommended to:

• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area.

What causes haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids can be caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, and other factors that increase pressure on the veins in the rectum.

What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?
Symptoms may include pain, itching, bleeding, and swelling in the anal area.

Are haemorrhoids always painful?
Not always, some haemorrhoids may be painless, especially if they are internal.

Can haemorrhoids be treated at home?
Mild cases of haemorrhoids can often be treated with home remedies such as sitz baths and topical creams.

When should I see a doctor for haemorrhoids?
If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there is heavy bleeding or severe pain.

Can haemorrhoids be prevented?
Possibly, maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements may help prevent haemorrhoids.

Are there different types of haemorrhoids?
Yes, haemorrhoids can be internal or external, and may also be classified as acute or chronic.

Can haemorrhoids lead to other health problems?
Rarely, if left untreated, haemorrhoids may lead to complications such as anaemia or infection.

How are haemorrhoids typically diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on a physical exam and medical history, and may also involve procedures such as anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.