6 Min Read
Haemorrhoids, often called piles, are swollen veins found in the lower part of the anus and rectum. When these vein walls enlarge, they can become inflamed. Around 4.4% of the world's population suffers from haemorrhoids. They can be caused by factors such as ageing or pregnancy. Haemorrhoids can be highly irritating and painful, directly affecting a patient's quality of life.
This blog explores the causes, symptoms, advanced treatment options, and effective management of haemorrhoids.
Synopsis
Types of Haemorrhoids
Depending on whether the vein swells inside or outside the rectum, the haemorrhoids can be categorised as:
-
External haemorrhoids: They develop underneath the skin around the anus. This type of haemorrhoid is itchy, painful and may even bleed.
-
Internal haemorrhoids: The swelling in the veins within the rectum may cause bleeding, but they are not painful.
-
Prolapsed haemorrhoids: The internal or external haemorrhoids may prolapse or bulge outside the rectum, which may cause bleeding and pain.
Causes of Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids result from excessive pressure on anal veins, often due to factors like
-
Straining during bowel movements
-
Prolonged toilet sitting
-
Constipation or diarrhoea
-
A low-fibre diet
-
Weakened tissues (common in ageing and pregnancy)
-
Being obese
-
Having anal intercourse
-
Heavy lifting
Signs and Symptoms of Haemorrhoids
Often, haemorrhoids cause no symptoms, and some people may not even be aware of them. However, when symptoms do arise, they may include:
-
Blood in bowel movement
-
Itching or irritation in the anal area
-
Discomfort, pain, or soreness around the anus
-
Swelling and lumps in the anal region
-
Vein dilation, which may or may not cause pain, depending on its location
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit a colorectal surgeon.
Treatment for Haemorrhoids/Piles
Haemorrhoids can be non-surgically treated with lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated to ease bowel movements. Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can help reduce pain, itching, and inflammation. In some cases, procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy may be used to treat haemorrhoids without surgery.
Haemorrhoidectomy serves as a reliable and safe treatment for some piles. This procedure involves the surgical removal of haemorrhoids. It is recommended for individuals for whom non-surgical treatment proves ineffective. Despite its reputation for a painful post-operative course, it remains the only effective solution for treating advanced internal and external haemorrhoids.
Conventional Haemorrhoidectomy
Conventional Haemorrhoidectomy using electrocautery is a well-established and time-tested method for the effective treatment of haemorrhoids. This procedure utilises electrocautery, a technique that employs controlled heat to coagulate and remove the haemorrhoidal tissue. The heat effectively seals blood vessels, minimising bleeding and promoting faster healing. As a result, patients experience reduced post-operative complications, such as bleeding, and a quicker recovery time.
Compared to newer techniques like laser surgery, electrocautery remains a cost-effective and reliable solution for many patients. It is particularly beneficial in more severe or complicated cases of haemorrhoids, where other treatments may not be as effective. The procedure is typically performed under either local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient's condition and preference, ensuring that the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.
One of the key advantages of conventional Haemorrhoidectomy with electrocautery is its minimal downtime. Patients can usually return to their normal activities within a short period, with most resuming work and daily routines within one to two weeks. While the procedure does require a recovery period, it offers long-lasting results, making it an excellent choice for patients seeking a reliable solution for their haemorrhoidal issues.
How to Manage Piles?
-
Stay Hydrated and Eat Fibre: Drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fibre diet to keep stools soft.
-
Gentle Cleaning: Wipe with damp toilet paper to reduce irritation.
-
Ointments for Haemorrhoids: Hydrocortisone ointment helps reduce swelling, itching, and pain caused by minor skin irritations from haemorrhoids. It is also available in the form of creams, sprays, and suppositories.
-
Pain Relief: Take paracetamol if haemorrhoids are painful.
-
Warm Baths: Soak in warm water to relieve itching and discomfort.
-
Cold Therapy: Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel to reduce discomfort.
-
Repositioning: Gently push a prolapsed haemorrhoid back inside if possible.
-
Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry to prevent irritation.
-
Stay Active: Exercise regularly to promote healthy digestion.
-
Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Reduce intake of tea, coffee, and cola to prevent constipation.
Haemorrhoids During Pregnancy
Haemorrhoids are common during pregnancy and are estimated to affect 25% to 35% of pregnant women.2 It typically goes away after childbirth. Haemorrhoids are common in pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins.
Increased progesterone during pregnancy relaxes the vein walls, making them more prone to swelling and haemorrhoids. Other causes include straining during bowel movements, the added pressure from pregnancy weight, and prolonged sitting or standing.
If you notice any symptoms of haemorrhoids during pregnancy, inform your doctor.
Is There Any Difference Between Haemorrhoids and Anal Fissures?
Haemorrhoids are caused by swollen veins, whereas anal fissures are caused by a tear in the lining of the anus. However, both conditions exhibit similar symptoms like pain, itching, and bleeding. Therefore, a thorough examination and testing are necessary to identify the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Haemorrhoids are a painful condition caused by swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. Evidence suggests that cases are rising, especially among younger adults, because of sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and increased stress. With proper care and treatment, haemorrhoids can be managed in the early stages, while advanced cases may require surgery or minimally invasive procedures. For expert guidance on treatment and management, visit the Department of Colorectal Surgery at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur.
FAQ's
Yes, avoid sitting for long periods and straining during bowel movements, as they can worsen piles by increasing pressure on the veins.
Laser surgery provides several advantages, including:
-
Minimal blood loss
-
Reduced damage to surrounding tissues
-
Less pain and discomfort
-
Outpatient procedure
-
No open wounds or sutures
-
Faster recovery
Haemorrhoids can lead to anaemia, blood clots, infections, and skin tags if left untreated. Strangulated haemorrhoids occur when blood flow is cut off to a prolapsed haemorrhoid. External haemorrhoids may become swollen, inflamed, or develop ulcers.
You can schedule an appointment with a colorectal surgeon at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, by contacting us or visiting our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/mukundapur/specialities/gi-surgery/
Contact no: 033 6907 0001
Share this article on:
