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Haemorrhoids - Haemorrhoids symptom, treatment, causes

Haemorrhoids, or piles, are varicose veins of the rectum or anus. Haemorrhoids are very common. They are said to be more common in countries where the diet has traditionally been more processed and low in fibre. The most common cause of haemorrhoids is straining at stool due to constipation and pregnancy (many women develop haemorrhoids during the last 6 months of their pregnancy). They can be internal, occurring inside the anus, or external, when they can be seen and felt on the outside of the anus. When visible they look like round pink swellings, the size of a pea or a grape. Other factors which can contribute to the development of haemorrhoids are heredity, high blood pressure, stress, sitting for long durations, skin sensitivity and poor hygiene. Haemorrhoids are classified according to their position. First-degree haemorrhoids remain inside the rectum or anal canal. Second-degree haemorrhoids protrude (or prolapse) from the anus when the bowels are opened, but return of their own accord afterwards. Third-degree haemorrhoids are similar, but only return inside when pushed back. Fourth-degree haemorrhoids hang permanently outside the anus. Most people affected have internal haemorrhoids and may not have any symptoms at all. The earliest symptom is often bleeding of fresh, red blood from the anal passage when the bowels are opened. There may be itchiness around the anal area.

Haemorrhoids develop slowly over time. Small blood vessels and veins in and around the rectum and anus carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Third and fourth degree haemorrhoids may be more painful and tend to produce a slimy discharge of mucus that leaks from the exposed lining of the haemorrhoid. Most episodes of trouble from haemorrhoids come and go quite quickly. If simple measures do not help or the problem is lasting, keeps returning or worsening, then you should see your doctor, especially if you have any other associated symptoms eg weight loss; change of bowel habit; slime in the motions; darker, changed blood mixed in with the stools. Symptoms can vary. Small haemorrhoids are usually painless. Haemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding, but on rare occasions it might be due to a more serious condition. Haemorrhoids are not dangerous, though they can be quite painful and irritating. Haemorrhoids can usually be treated at home. The most important element in encouraging existing haemorrhoids to clear up is to avoid constipation. Eating plenty of fiber-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables and wholegrain cereals (eg brown rice, whole meal bread and whole meal pasta), and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, should keep bowel movements soft. Surgery may be necessary to treat persistent or very painful piles.

Haemorrhoids occurs due to the abnormal dilation of veins in the anus. Haemorrhoids( also called piles) that develop in the lower part of the anus usually protrude through the anal opening and are called external haemorrhoids. Internal haemorrhoids develop higher in the anus and may not protrude.

Causes of Haemorrhoids

Some degree of anal vein dilation occurs in all adults and children, and is considered normal unless symptoms develop. Anything that causes increased pressure in the abdomen (such as pregnancy, chronic coughing, heavy lifting, constipation and straining to pass hard faeces) can increase the pressure in anal veins and lead to haemorrhoids and their symptoms. The common causes and risk factor's of Haemorrhoids include the following:

• An increase in pressure in the veins of the lower rectum.
• Constipation.
• Straining to empty the bowels.
• Obesity.
• Family history of haemorrhoids.
• Overweight people.
• People with heavy lifting jobs.

Symptoms of Haemorrhoids

Bleeding and pain during bowel movements,and protruding lumps, are common symptoms.The bleeding is usually slight - often just a smear seen on toilet paper. Less common are mucous discharge and a feeling that the rectum has not been completely emptied after passing faeces. Some sign and symptoms related to Haemorrhoids are as follows:

• Itching and bleeding.
• Bright red blood on your stools or toilet paper.
• Swelling around the anal skin.
• Mucus discharge.
• A painful anus during your bowel movement.
• A lump or bulge.

Diagnosis of Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are usually obvious from their appearance, but proctoscopy (internal examination of the rectum via a viewing instru-ment) is always advised to exclude cancer and other possible causes of the bleeding.

Complications of Haemorrhoids

Possible complications include THROMBOSIS (the formation of clots in the veins) and STRANGULATION (in which the dilated vein twists and cuts off its own blood supply). which can cause acute, severe pain. Profuse bleeding from haemorrhoids is rare, but persistent bleeding may lead to ANAEMIA.

Treatment of Haemorrhoids

Small haemorrhoids often shrink spontaneously if constipation is eliminated. Rectal suppositories or ointment containing local anaes-thetic, decongestant drugs and/or corticosteroids may reduce the symptoms and help to shrink the haemorrhoids, larger, persistently troublesome ones may be injected with a fluid that causes the dilated vein to become blocked, or rubber bands may be applied to close off the vein and make it shrivel. If these measures fail to relieve symptoms, surgical removal (haemorrhoidectomy) may be needed. Here is list of the methods for treating Haemorrhoids:

• Eating plenty of fiber-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables and wholegrain cereals (eg brown rice, whole meal bread and whole meal pasta), and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, should keep bowel movements soft.
• Cold compresses, even ice can be helpful.
• If your haemorrhoids are only causing mild discomfort your doctor may recommend local ointment or suppositories in conjunction with the above.
• Cream or suppositories (bullet-shaped tablets to be inserted into the anus) may be bought over the counter, or your doctor may prescribe one.
• If your haemorrhoids do not clear up using creams, ointments or suppositories, banding may be recommended.
• Laser treatment: this will block the blood supply from the piles.