Hemorrhoids
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Definition and Types
Hemorrhoid disease, commonly known as hemorrhoids or piles, refers to the swelling and inflammation of the veins in the rectum and anus. There are two main types:
- 1. Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the anal canal, these are usually not visible or palpable. They often cause painless bleeding during bowel movements. Will may come out or prolapse over time.
- 2. External Hemorrhoids: Found around the anal opening, these can be seen and felt. They cause itching early on.
Causes: Straining during bowel movements: Often due to constipation or diarrhea.
- Sitting for long periods: Particularly on the toilet.
- Obesity: Extra weight increases pressure on the rectal veins.
- Low-fiber diet: Leads to straining during bowel movements.
- Aging: Tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus weaken and stretch.
Symptoms: Hemorrhoid symptoms vary depending on the type and severity but commonly include:
- Bleeding: Bright red blood during or after bowel movements.
- Itching and irritation: In the anal region.
- Pain and discomfort: Especially with external hemorrhoids.
- Swelling: Around the anus.
- A lump: Near the anus, which can be sensitive or painful (typically with external hemorrhoids).
Diagnosis: Diagnosis is often based on a clinical evaluation. For internal hemorrhoids, a digital rectal exam and possibly a proctoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are performed to visualize the inside of the rectum.
Treatment:
- Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting can prevent and manage hemorrhoids.
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams and ointments can relieve symptoms.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Rubber band ligation See Video and infrared coagulation (IRC). See Video
- Surgical Options: Hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy are considered for severe cases or when other treatments fail.
Prevention: There is no cure for hemorrhoid disease. Adopting the following habits is beneficial:
- High-fiber diet: To maintain soft stools and prevent straining.
- Adequate hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Regular exercise: To prevent constipation.
- Avoiding prolonged sitting: Especially on the toilet.
- Good toilet habits: Going when the urge first strikes to avoid straining.
Complications:
- Prolapse: of intenal hemorrhoids may or may not be reducible.
- Thrombosis or clotting of the hemorrhoid: Can be painful and needs drainage if addressed within 3 days.See Video
COMMON CAUSES OF ANORECTAL PAIN AND BLEEDING INCLUDE:
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed on this website belong to Dr Waqar Qureshi and do not represent the views of Baylor College of Medicine. In the information here is for your benefit only, and not to suggest any particular treatment, which only your doctor can determine after examining you.
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