The Truth about Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids (or hemorrhoids & also known as Piles) are swollen and inflamed veins commonly located in the rectum or anus. Often haemorrhoids are the result of chronic constipation, however they can also occur during pregnancy or from prolonged sitting. Other causes of haemorrhoids include:
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Straining to pass bowel motions |
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Severe exertion (e.g. lifting heavy materials) |
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Obesity |
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Hereditary factors |
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Elevated anal resting pressure |
Essentially haemorrhoids (also known as hemorrhoids or piles) occur when excessive pressure builds up in the anal blood vessels, causing the blood vessels to become inflamed and swollen.
Did you know? Around 40-50% of people will have haemorrhoids some time in their life.
¹ ²
There are two distinct types of haemorrhoids:
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Internal Haemorrhoids |
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External Haemorrhoids |
Internal Haemorrhoids
Often located within the anal canal, this specific type of haemorrhoid is relatively painless but has a tendency to bleed.
External Haemorrhoids
This form of haemorrhoid often appears as small soft lumps, located near and around the anus.
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Condition
Haemorrhoids (also known as hemorrhoids or piles) can occur and fade quite quickly. If simple measures are ineffective and/or the condition worsens it is advised to seek medical attention.
An examination by a qualified medical practitioner is important in cases where bleeding from the rectum is experienced as this may also be the result of a more serious condition.
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The Symptoms
Individuals who develop haemorrhoids may experience:
Internal haemorrhoid symptoms
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Traces of blood, sometimes found on stools and/or tissue paper |
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Aching in the back passage |
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Itching (sometimes) |
External haemorrhoid symptoms
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Severe pain and/or aching in and around the anus or anal canal |
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Itching and increased aggravation within and around the affected area |
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Haemorrhoids located outside the anus that clot (thrombosed external pile) can lead to tender, hard clumps |
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Pain when passing bowel motions |
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Burning sensations in and around the anus region |
Diagnosis
Haemorrhoids can occur and fade quite quickly. Provided initial simple measures are ineffective and/or the condition worsens it is advised to seek medical attention.
A thorough examination by a qualified medical practitioner is important in cases where any bleeding from the rectum is visible as these may also be attributed to other more serious fatal digestive diseases.
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Haemorrhoids Relief
Managing the symptoms associated with haemorrhoids (or hemorrhoids or piles) can be as simple as changing your diet and exercising, both things that can be done at home.
The Diet
Focusing on establishing and maintaining a healthy diet is an effective way to reduce the likelihood of haemorrhoids (also known as hemorrhoids or piles). Increased consumption of vegetables, fruits and cereals combined with plenty of water will help maintain frequent and easy bowel motions.
Furthermore, exercise is also recommended for healthy internal functions of the bowel and abdominal regions.
Application of SOOV IT can help to relieve symptoms and is available from pharmacy without a prescription.
Haemorrhoid sufferers may also apply cold treatments, such as ice packs to ease and shrink inflamed vessels.
Other ways to reduce the chance of haemorrhoids:
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Good anal hygiene (Clean and dry gently) |
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Avoid sitting for excessive periods of time |
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¹ Pray WS. Haemorrhoids: Self-care vs. Physician Care. US Pharm. 2001;26(5)
² UK Department of Health |