What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen, enlarged
veins located inside the lower part of the rectum (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external).
What causes haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids occur when veins in the back passage
become swollen, because the flow of blood through them slows down or
is obstructed - similar to varicose veins in the legs. If they become
very large they may be felt outside the back passage as soft tender
lumps. Experts believe haemorrhoids are caused by continuous high pressure
in the veins, which occurs because humans stand upright.
Some people are more likely to develop haemorrhoids
than others. Many factors increase the chances of you developing haemorrhoids,
they could include any of the following:-
- If either of your parents
had haemorrhoids.
- Pregnancy
- this is because the veins are more relaxed.
- If you
are elderly.
- Being overweight.
- If you strain when going to
the toilet.
- A unhealthy diet - especially one
which is low in fibre.
- If you suffer from chronic constipation or diarrhoea.
Despite what you might hear people say, haemorroids are
not caused by sitting on hot radiators or cold floors.
What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?
Some people with haemorrhoids will have no symptoms.
However, the most common symptoms of haemorrhoids are as follows:-
- Fresh bright red bleeding from the back passage
- the blood may be present on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
- Itchiness in the area around
the anus.
- A pain or ache around the anus and lower rectum.
- Sometimes a lump may be felt in the anus and
large haemorrhoids will give you the feeling that the bowel hasn't been emptied properly.
Internal haemorrhoids usually cause less symptoms. External
haemorrhoids tend to be more uncomfortable and can often be felt sticking
out through your back passage, especially when passing a motion (stools).
Haemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding, but on rare occasions it might be due to a more serious condition.
If over the counter remedies don't help, or you are unsure of your symptoms,
you should consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and advice.
How common are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids are very common in both men and women.
At least half the population will suffer from haemorrhoids by the time
they are 50.
How are haemorrhoids diagnosed?
A doctor will usually be able to diagnose haemorrhoids
by a rectal examination. However, if symptoms persist you may be referred
to a hospital for further examinations. A hollow, lighted tube known
as a proctoscope may be used to examine the inside of the rectum.
How are haemorrhoids treated?
Haemorrhoids are not dangerous, though they can
be quite painful and irritating. The treatment you require will depend
on the type of haemorrhoids you have. If the haemorrhoids are small
and there are no symptoms then treatment is not necessary.
If the only symptoms are itching and discomfort,
a cream, which you rub on the affected area will help relieve the discomfort
(available over the counter at your local pharmacy). Do not use this
cream for more than a week. You should also try sitting in a shallow
bath of plain hot water, several times a day for about 10 minutes to
help relieve your symptoms or apply a cold compress to the anal area
to help reduce swelling and ease the itching. Do not allow the ice to
come in direct contact with the skin.
Doctors will usually recommend that
you increase the amount of fibre in your diet,
this makes the stool softer and therefore makes emptying the bowels
easier.
If the haemorrhoids are persistent and cause you a great
deal of discomfort your doctor may refer you to a specialist. There
are a number of operations that will remove haemorrhoids, most of which
can be performed in a hospital out-patients department. The specialist
will discuss all treatment options with you.
How are haemorrhoids prevented?
If you suffer with haemorrhoids, try the following
to prevent them returning :-
- Empty bowels as soon as possible, after the urge
occurs.
- Avoid straining on the toilet.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take regular exercise, this will help prevent constipation.
- Eat a diet high in fibre to
keep stools regular and soft. Foods high in fibre include fruits,
vegetables and whole grains.
- Avoid sitting on the toilet for a long period
of time.
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