What are haemorrhoids? Understanding its causes, symptoms and treatment method

Learn what haemorrhoids are, their causes, symptoms, and how to care for them effectively.(Image: Canva)

The word haemorrhoids is derived from the Haima, which means blood, and Rhoos, which means flowering. It is a downward sliding of the anal cushions. Piles may be mucosal or vascular, and are common in certain age groups. Mucosal type is seen in older people, whereas vascular type is seen in younger generations.

Haemorrhoids are divided into different degrees. First degree haemorrhoids that bleed, but do not come out. In second degree, the piles prolapse during defaecation, but can return spontaneously. In the third degree of haemorrhoids, piles do come out during defaecation, but can only be reduced by manual help. Permanently prolapsed piles are called fourth degree haemorrhoids.

The aetiology for haemorrhoids may be influenced by multiple factors. While heredity may have an effect, factors like straining and diarrhoea, along with constipation, may also play a role in the development of haemorrhoids. Pregnancy, a diet low in fibre, and excessive vomiting may also lead to piles, because of the increased pressure.

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During pregnancy, the levels of a hormone, known as progesterone, are increased, which causes the relaxation of walls of the veins, and the enlarged uterus begins to compress the pelvic veins. This may be predisposing factor for piles.

One of the earliest symptoms of haemorrhoids is bleeding, seen during defaecation. It is bright red in colour, and a mass may be felt near the anus. A mucoid type discharge may also present, and the affected individual may experience intense itching in the anal region. Due to excessive blood loss, the person may develop anemia, and show signs like pallor, and symptoms of breathlessness.

It is crucial to differentiate haemorrhoids from other conditions like  carcinoma, rectal prolapse and perianal warts. If not treated timely, haemorrhoids may undergo complications like profuse haemorrhage, which may sometimes need blood transfusion. Ulceration and gangrene can be seen in some cases, along with fibrosis.

Non-operative ways to deal with haemorrhoids include a Sitz bath. In this, a person sits in warm water dipping their anal region in it for about 20 minutes. This must be repeated two to three times in a day. Sitz bath aids in reducing the swelling and the pain, and also promotes healing. Laxatives like the lactulose solution can help soften bowel motions and relieve constipation, which prevents straining.

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FAQs about haemorrhoids: 

1. What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum and anus, often causing discomfort and bleeding.

2. What causes haemorrhoids?

Multiple factors can cause haemorrhoids, including heredity, straining, diarrhoea, constipation, pregnancy, a low-fibre diet, and excessive vomiting.

3. What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?

Symptoms include bright red bleeding during defaecation, a mass near the anus, mucoid discharge, intense itching, and potential anaemia due to excessive blood loss.

4. How are haemorrhoids treated non-operatively?

Non-operative treatments include Sitz baths and laxatives like lactulose solution to soften bowel motions and relieve constipation.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.