Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are very common, affecting up to half of all adults at some point in their lives. Straining during delivery or due to constipation postpartum can lead to swollen and painful blood vessels in the rectum and anus.

Haemorrhoids can be either internal or external.

1. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and are usually painless. However, they can bleed during bowel movements.
2. External haemorrhoids are located under the skin around the anus. They can be painful, itchy, and swollen.

Causes of haemorrhoids

The exact cause of haemorrhoids is unknown, but they are thought to be caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels in and around the anus. This pressure can be caused by a number of factors, including:

1. Straining during bowel movements
2. Constipation
3. Diarrhoea
4. Pregnancy
5. Being overweight or obese
6. Lifting heavy objects
7. Aging

Symptoms of haemorrhoids

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

1. Bleeding during bowel movements
2. Itching, pain, or discomfort around the anus
3. A lump hanging down outside of the anus
4. A feeling of fullness or incomplete emptying after a bowel movement

How are haemorrhoids diagnosed?

In most cases, haemorrhoids can be diagnosed by a doctor during a physical examination. In some cases, an additional test called an anoscopy may be performed to get a better look at the haemorrhoids.

Treatment of haemorrhoids 

Treatment for haemorrhoids depends on the type and severity of the haemorrhoids. In many cases, home treatment measures can be effective. These measures include:

1. Increasing fiber intake to help prevent constipation
2. Using over-the-counter pain relievers and creams
3. Taking warm baths or applying ice packs to the affected area
4. Avoiding straining during bowel movements

If home treatment measures are not effective, there are a number of medical treatments available. These treatments include:

1. Rubber band ligation: This procedure involves banding the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off.
2. Sclerotherapy: This procedure involves injecting a solution into the haemorrhoid to shrink it.
3. Coagulation: This procedure uses heat to destroy the hemorrhoidal tissue.
4. Surgery: Surgery is only used in rare cases when other treatments have failed.

Prevention of haemorrhoids

There are a number of things you can do to prevent haemorrhoids, including:

1. Eating a high-fiber diet
2. Avoiding straining during bowel movements
3. Maintaining a healthy weight
4. Exercising regularly
5. Avoiding lifting heavy objects