Haemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles, are swollen blood vessels located in or around the anus and rectum. These enlarged veins can cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes bleeding. Depending on their location, haemorrhoids can be categorized as either internal or external:
Types of Haemorrhoids
Internal Haemorrhoids – Found inside the rectum, they are generally painless. They may cause bleeding, particularly during bowel movements. In some cases, internal haemorrhoids may prolapse, slipping outside the anus, leading to irritation and discomfort.
External Haemorrhoids: Located around the outside of the anus, these are more likely to cause pain. Symptoms include itching, swelling, and in some cases, the formation of a painful clot known as a thrombosed haemorrhoid.
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Causes of Haemorrhoids
Several factors contribute to the development of haemorrhoids:
Straining during bowel movements:
Often due to constipation or hard stools, this puts excessive pressure on veins.
Pregnancy:
The growing uterus can increase pelvic vein pressure.
Obesity:
Extra body weight contributes to pressure on pelvic veins.
Prolonged sitting or standing:
Remaining in the same position for extended periods exacerbates vein stress.
Aging:
Tissue supporting rectal blood vessels weakens with age.
Heavy lifting:
Repeatedly lifting heavy objects raises abdominal pressure.
Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of haemorrhoids is key to early diagnosis and treatment:
Pain or discomfort during or after bowel movements.
Itching or irritation around the anus.
Bright red bleeding during bowel movements.
Swelling or a lump near the anus (associated with external haemorrhoids).
A sensation of fullness in the rectum, particularly with internal haemorrhoids.
Mucus discharge after bowel movements.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing haemorrhoids involves a combination of:
Symptom evaluation and medical history review.
A physical examination to detect visible signs.
Digital rectal examination or additional tests like colonoscopy, if necessary.
Treatment Options
1. At-Home Treatments:
Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel.
Sitz baths to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Cold compresses to minimize swelling.
A high-fiber diet, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Adequate hydration to prevent constipation.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
Rubber band ligation: A rubber band cuts off blood supply to the haemorrhoids, causing it to shrink.
Sclerotherapy: Injecting a solution to shrink haemorrhoids.
Infrared coagulation: Heat application to reduce haemorrhoids.
3. Haemorrhoids Surgery:
Haemorrhoidectomy: A traditional surgical removal of haemorrhoids.
Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy: A less invasive method that repositions prolapsed haemorrhoids and reduces blood supply, promoting healing.
Preparing for Surgery
Pre-surgery fasting and bowel preparation as advised by your doctor.
Adjusting medications to reduce bleeding risks.
Recovery After Surgery
Pain management with prescribed medications.
Post-surgery care, including sitz baths and maintaining hygiene.
Following a high-fiber diet to ease bowel movements.
Full recovery typically takes 2–4 weeks for traditional surgery and 1–2 weeks for stapling.
Untreated Hemorrhoids
If left untreated, haemorrhoids can escalate, causing severe pain, complications, and a decline in quality of life. Early treatment ensures faster relief and prevents worsening of symptoms.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of haemorrhoids, contact LifePlus Hospital today. Our expert team is dedicated to providing effective care, helping you regain comfort and well-being.
Yes, many cases of haemorrhoids can improve or resolve on their own with home treatments like diet changes, increased fibre intake, and sitting in warm baths.
While haemorrhoids are usually not dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and lead to complications such as severe bleeding, anaemia, or thrombosis (when a blood clot forms in an external haemorrhoid).
Foods high in fibre (like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of haemorrhoids. Drinking plenty of water also helps soften stools.
Yes, regular exercise can help prevent constipation and improve blood circulation. However, avoid heavy lifting or straining that may worsen haemorrhoids.
You should see a doctor if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain, or lumps around the anus, or if over-the-counter treatments don't improve symptoms.
Yes, haemorrhoids can return, especially if the underlying causes (like chronic constipation or straining) are not addressed. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
While haemorrhoid surgery is generally safe, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, or difficulty with bowel control. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases.