Hemorrhoids (Piles): Symptoms, causes, and treatments

Haemorrhoids, or piles, are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus caused by increased pressure during bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting. They are classified as internal or external, with symptoms such as bleeding, itching, and discomfort. Treatment options range from home remedies to medical interventions like surgery. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

What are Haemorrhoids? 

Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen or inflamed blood vessels located in the rectum or anus. These occur when veins in this region experience excessive pressure, leading to discomfort and other symptoms. Haemorrhoids can affect anyone but are particularly common in individuals with chronic constipation, obesity, or pregnancy. 

While haemorrhoids are not typically life-threatening, they can significantly impact daily life, causing discomfort during sitting, walking, or bowel movements.

Types of Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are classified into two main categories: 

Internal Haemorrhoids

Internal haemorrhoids are found inside the rectum and typically don’t cause pain, as this area lacks pain-sensitive nerves. However, they may lead to noticeable symptoms like bright red blood during bowel movements or a feeling of tissue protruding from the anus during straining. 

External Haemorrhoids

External haemorrhoids develop beneath the skin surrounding the anus, an area rich in pain-sensitive nerves. They can lead to discomfort, swelling, and itching, with severe pain occurring if a blood clot forms within the swollen tissue.

Haemorrhoids Symptoms

The haemorrhoids symptoms you experience depend on whether they are internal or external: 

• Bleeding: Bright red blood during or after bowel movements is a common sign, often visible on toilet paper or in the stool, signalling irritation or damage to haemorrhoidal veins. 

• Itching: Persistent irritation or itching around the anus results from inflammation or mucus discharge, causing significant discomfort. 

• Pain: Sharp or throbbing pain, especially with external haemorrhoids or while sitting, can make daily tasks and bowel movements challenging. 

• Swelling: A noticeable lump or bulge near the anus, often tender to touch, is due to swollen or inflamed blood vessels. 

• Mucus Discharge: Prolapsed haemorrhoids may release mucus, which can cause skin irritation and increase discomfort around the anus. 

Symptoms of piles in females may worsen during pregnancy due to increased pressure on pelvic veins. Symptoms of piles in males are often linked to heavy lifting or chronic constipation.

What Causes Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids causes are linked to increased pressure in the rectal or anal veins. Factors include: 

• Straining During Bowel Movements: Frequent straining, often due to chronic constipation or diarrhoea, puts pressure on rectal veins, increasing the risk of haemorrhoids. 

• Prolonged Sitting: Spending long periods on the toilet can elevate rectal vein pressure, leading to swelling and discomfort. 

• Pregnancy: Hormonal shifts and increased pelvic pressure during pregnancy commonly cause haemorrhoids in expectant mothers. 

• Obesity: Excess body weight places added strain on the veins in the rectal area, making haemorrhoids more likely. 

• Low-Fibre Diet: A diet lacking fibre results in harder stools, causing individuals to strain during bowel movements and increasing haemorrhoid risk.  

How is it Diagnosed? 

Diagnosing haemorrhoids involves a combination of medical history and physical examination. A doctor may: 

• Perform a Visual Inspection: External haemorrhoids can often be identified through a simple visual examination, as they appear as swollen, discoloured lumps around the anus. This is usually the first step in diagnosing haemorrhoids. 

• Conduct a Digital Rectal Exam: During this procedure, the doctor gently inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to check for abnormalities such as lumps, swelling, or tenderness that may indicate internal haemorrhoids or other conditions. 

• Use an Anoscope or Proctoscope: These specialized instruments provide a clear view of the rectum and anal canal, allowing the doctor to assess the size, location, and severity of internal haemorrhoids, which are not visible externally. 

In some cases, additional tests may be needed to rule out other conditions, like colorectal cancer, especially if bleeding is a primary symptom.

Treatment and Management

Haemorrhoids treatment varies depending on severity. Options include: 

Home Remedies

• High-Fibre Diet: Consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains softens stool. 

• Warm Sitz Baths: Soak the affected area in warm water for relief. 

• Topical Creams and Ointments: Over-the-counter products can reduce itching and swelling. 

Medication

For a piles problem, doctors may prescribe piles medicine like creams or oral pain relievers to manage symptoms. 

Non-Surgical Procedures

• Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. 

• Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected to shrink the haemorrhoid. 

• Infrared Coagulation: Heat is used to harden and remove the haemorrhoid. 

Surgical Interventions

•  Haemorrhoidectomy: This procedure involves surgically removing large or severe haemorrhoids. While it’s highly effective, recovery might take a bit longer because of the delicate area being treated. 

• Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy: A less invasive option that uses staples to reposition prolapsed haemorrhoids. It helps reduce swelling and discomfort while promoting faster recovery with minimal pain.  

When to See a Doctor? 

If home remedies and piles medicine don’t provide relief or symptoms worsen, it’s time to consult a specialist. Persistent bleeding, extreme pain, or recurrent prolapse requires medical intervention. 

For residents of Bangalore, you can visit the nearest SPARSH Hospital. We are renowned for reputable gastroenterology hospitals in Bangalore. At our hospitals you can consult with experienced gastroenterologists in Bangalore, who can offer effective diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Haemorrhoids can be uncomfortable but are manageable with timely care and lifestyle changes. Recognizing symptoms early, maintaining a fibre-rich diet, and avoiding prolonged sitting are key preventive measures. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between haemorrhoids and piles? 

Haemorrhoids and piles are just different names for the same condition—swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus. 

What are the main causes of haemorrhoids? 

The main causes include straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods, pregnancy, obesity, and a low-fibre diet. 

Do haemorrhoids (piles) go away? 

Mild haemorrhoids can improve with lifestyle changes, but more severe cases may need medical treatment. 

What is the fastest way to heal a haemorrhoid? 

A combination of warm sitz baths, topical creams, and a high-fibre diet can help heal haemorrhoids faster. 

Are haemorrhoids (piles) harmful? 

While they aren’t life-threatening, untreated haemorrhoids can lead to significant discomfort, bleeding, and complications like anaemia.