Haemorrhoids or more frequently called piles, are blood vessels that are swelling around the anus. They are also known as anal cushions which everyone has. It is not normal when there is swelling and it becomes enlarged.
There are four types of degrees:
- First degree piles are bleeding internal piles
- Second degree piles show a lump surrounding the anus and is protruding after bowel motion and goes away after
- Third degree piles show lump surrounding the anus that protrudes after bowel motion, however it requires pushing it back by a finger into the anus
- Fourth degree piles show a lump that is unable to push back into the anus
There are many risk factors that can cause Haemorrhoids which includes:
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- While pregnant, pressure exerted by the growing foetus and during labour on the blood vessels surround the anus
- Excessive straining when passing stools
- Prolonged sitting on the toilet after a period of time
Alternative factors that can increase the occurrence of haemorrhoids include:
- Being overweight
- Having a family history of haemorrhoids
- Having an intra-abdominal or pelvic tumour (uncommon cause)
- Lack of fibre in diet
More common symptoms may include:
- Changes in bowel movements (constipation or diarrhea)
- Changes in the motion of stools
- Bowel does not empty thoroughly
- Detecting blood in your stools
- Detecting your stools are thinner than normal
- Itchiness surrounding the anus
- Pain during and post bowel motion
- Unexplainable weight loss and loss of appetite
The symptoms mentioned above can also indicate colorectal cancer. Consult your doctor for advice and examine thoroughly.
These treatment are according to the severity of their condition:
- Your doctor can suggest to increase your intake of fibre and water to avoid strain during bowel movements.
- Medication (tablets or suppositories) in order to treat smaller Haemorrhoids.
- Rubber band treatment (ligation) to treat first or second degree Haemorrhoids. A rubber band is put over the piles to block its blood supply.
- A device that can be inserted to enter the anus and to block the blood vessels from transporting blood to the Haemorrhoids.
- Surgery (Haemorrhoidectomy) to block off the third and fourth degree piles, by including a variety of surgical procedures.
- A chemical solution is used into the haemorrhoids which causes them to shrink and fall off (effective on first and second degree hemorrhoids).
