Understanding Haemorrhoids (Piles): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Despite being a disorder that is sometimes misunderstood, millions of people must receive treatment for piles. Although a common ailment resulting in pain, many people avoid seeking help because of embarrassment. But early detection and treatment can ward off problems and boost quality of life.
This guide will provide you with an in-depth understanding of haemorrhoids, including the triggers, symptoms, and treatment options that work, so you can take control and avoid this painful condition.
What Are Haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins in or around the back passage (rectum) and the skin close to them, resembling small lumps or clots (also called piles). They form when heightened pressure causes these veins to swell, bulge, and, in some cases, bleed. While haemorrhoids may be painful and unpleasant, not all haemorrhoids have symptoms.
Misconceptions vs. Reality in Terms of the Medical Dictionary
The sight of blood on toilet paper strikes fear in people’s hearts, making them think of all kinds of issues, including haemorrhoids, which are considered “abnormal” but are anatomically normal cushion-like veins that contribute towards controlling the defecation act. They only cause problems when enlarged or inflamed.
Types of Haemorrhoids
External Haemorrhoids
- Present beneath the skin surrounding the anus.
- They are often palpable as lumps and can be painful, especially when thrombosed.
Internal Haemorrhoids
- Located in the rectum, painless normally.
- May bleed during BMs.
- They can prolapse in some cases, manifesting as protruding from the anus.
Causes of Haemorrhoids
Multiple factors can be implicated in the formation of haemorrhoids, most being related to increased pressure in the rectum below. Common causes include:
- Pushing when you are on the toilet – This is commonly caused by constipation.
- Prolonged use of the loo might put pressure on the anal veins.
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea – Bowel habits that strain the rectum.
- A diet low in fibre – Results in stool hardening and straining.
- Pregnancy – The enlarging uterus puts pressure on the pelvic veins.
- Age – The delicate support tissues in your veins weaken as you age.
- Heavy lifting or vigorous physical activity – The pressure in the abdomen increases.
Knowing these triggers might be useful for prevention and treatment.
Symptoms of Haemorrhoids
Symptoms differ according to their severity and type.
External Haemorrhoid Symptoms
- Itchy or irritated red rashes around your anus.
- Aching or discomfort with sitting in general.
- Swelling near the anus or a hard lump (if the haemorrhoid is thrombosed).
- Passing blood with your stool.
Internal Haemorrhoid Symptoms
- Includes the existence of vivid red blood in the stool or on the toilet paper.
- A haemorrhoid that prolapses, or falls to ‘hang’ out of the rectum, but can be ‘pushed’ back up inside.
- Pain occurs if the prolapsed haemorrhoid becomes incarcerated.
When Symptoms Worsen
If you rub the haemorrhoids or are pushing them too hard, or are ignoring the symptoms, complications can occur, such as:
- Thrombosed haemorrhoids (painful blood clots in haemorrhoids).
- Anaemia (from long-term loss of blood).
- Strangulated haemorrhoids (compromise of the blood supply, which necessitates emergency treatment).
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
Most mild cases can be managed at home with a few simple tweaks:
Dietary Adjustments
- Foods with lots of fibre – Grains (whole), fruit (berries, pears), vegetables (broccoli, carrots), and legumes (lentils, beans).
- Fibre supplements – Tablets containing psyllium husk or methylcellulose can help to soften stools.
- Hydration – It helps a lot if you’re drinking lots of water and not getting constipated.
Toilet Habits
- Do not strain or sit too long on the toilet.
- Try moist towelettes in place of dry toilet paper to decrease irritation.
Pain Relief Options
- Sitz baths – Spending ten to fifteen minutes sitting in warm water reduces inflammation.
- Over-the-counter treatments – Creams (hydrocortisone) or suppositories (Anusol).
- Painkillers – You can give paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain.
When to See a Doctor
Although at-home treatments can be beneficial, seek a specialist if you experience:
- Symptoms that do not improve after a week.
- Passing a lot of blood from the back passage (this can signify other things).
- Extreme pain or if the haemorrhoid won’t slip back into place.
Diagnosis of Haemorrhoids
A doctor may perform:
- On examination, look for external haemorrhoids.
- Digital rectal examination (DRE) – This is for internal haemorrhoids.
- Anoscopy – Inserting a tiny scope to examine the anal canal.
- Other tests (colonoscopy) may be suggested if other conditions are suspected.
Medical and Surgical Treatments
Non-Surgical Procedures
- Rubber Band Ligation – A rubber band is applied at the base of the haemorrhoid to stop the blood flow.
- Sclerotherapy – To reduce the size of the haemorrhoid, a chemical is injected into it.
- Infrared Coagulation – Using heat to reduce the blood flow.
Operational Removals (in rare cases)
- Haemorrhoidectomy – Cutting out large haemorrhoids.
- Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy – This repositions and staples prolapsed haemorrhoids.
Prevention Tips
- Consume high-fibre food – It keeps the stool soft.
- Keep moving – It helps avoid being constipated.
- Don’t sit for too long – Stand up and stretch if you work at a desk.
- Do not hold it – Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel you need to have a bowel movement.
Conclusion
Haemorrhoids are an easily treated problem. Simple lifestyle modification and prompt treatment are effective in minimising the symptoms. If symptoms do not resolve, professional treatment is important to ensure that the condition is treated appropriately and to prevent possible complications.
Need expert advice? The specialists at Chase Lodge Hospital are committed to providing you with an individualised, responsive treatment plan. With our treatment, you can stop this and take control of your life now. Schedule an appointment today.
This guide gives a comprehensive view of haemorrhoids in an easy-to-read and believable manner. Here are prevention tips and information on how to treat it quickly to help make you feel better sooner.
