ColomboSurgeon

Haemorrhoids

What are haemorrhoids?

 

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are very common and affect people of all ages.

 

What are the types of Hemorrhoids?

  • Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum. Usually painless but can cause bleeding.
  • External Hemorrhoids: Found under the skin around the anus, often causing pain, swelling, and itching.
  • Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: External hemorrhoids where blood clots form, causing severe pain and swelling.

 

What causes haemorrhoids?

  • Straining during bowel movements.
  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
  • Sitting for long periods on the toilet.
  • Pregnancy (increased pressure in the pelvic area).
  • Obesity.
  • Low-fiber diets.

Symptoms of haemorrhoids

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.
  • Itching or irritation around the anus.
  • Pain or discomfort, especially during bowel movements.
  • Swelling or a lump near the anus (in the case of external hemorrhoids).

When to See a Doctor

  • Persistent bleeding during bowel movements.
  • Severe pain or discomfort.
  • Symptoms that do not improve with home treatment.
  • A lump that becomes hard and painful.

 

How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?

Your doctor may:

  • Ask about your symptoms and medical history.
  • Perform a physical examination, including a visual inspection of the anus.
  • Use additional procedures like anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy for internal hemorrhoids.

 

Treatment for haemorrhoids

  • At-Home Remedies:
    • High-fiber diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables).
    • Stay hydrated with plenty of water.
    • Sitz baths (warm water baths for the anal area).
    • Over-the-counter creams or ointments.
    • Avoid prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements.
  • Out-patient procedures
    • Rubber band ligation (a band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply).
    • Sclerotherapy (injection of a solution to shrink the hemorrhoid).
  • Surgical Options (for severe cases):
    • Hemorrhoidectomy (removal of hemorrhoids).
    • Stapled hemorrhoidopexy (used for internal hemorrhoids).

    • LASER

 

How can I prevent haemorrhoids?

  • Eat a high-fiber diet to avoid constipation.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to keep stools soft.
  • Exercise regularly to improve bowel function.
  • Avoid sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet.