Overview
Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in or around the rectum and anus, leading to itching, pain, and bleeding. They can be caused by straining, pregnancy, or heavy lifting. Treatments range from home remedies like haemorrhoid creams to endoscopic or surgical interventions.
What are Haemorrhoids?
Discovering that you have haemorrhoids can be an understandable cause for concern. But up to 80% of people will have haemorrhoids at some point in their lives, so you’re not alone.
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels located in or around the rectum and anus. They can affect anyone but are more common in adults, especially those over the age of 45, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic constipation or a sedentary lifestyle.
Haemorrhoids can appear internally, within the rectum, or externally, under the skin around the anus. For many, these swollen veins can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, particularly during or after bowel movements.
What are The Symptoms of Haemorrhoids?
Symptoms of haemorrhoids can vary depending on the type and severity. Recognising these symptoms can help identify the condition early and guide you to the appropriate haemorrhoid treatment. Haemorrhoid symptoms include:
- Itching or irritation around the anus.
- Pain or discomfort during bowel movements.
- Swelling or a lump near the anus.
- Bleeding after bowel movements.
- Mucous discharge or a sensation of incomplete evacuation.
Are There Different Types of Haemorrhoids?
When it comes to haemorrhoids, there are a few different types that you could have. These are external haemorrhoids, internal haemorrhoids, and prolapsed haemorrhoids. Each can come with different symptoms and may need different treatments too.
External Haemorrhoids
External haemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus and are often more painful than internal ones. They can cause significant discomfort, itching, and swelling. Sometimes, external haemorrhoids may bleed or form a hard lump when a blood clot forms within them, leading to a condition known as a thrombosed haemorrhoid.
Internal Haemorrhoids
Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, so you usually can’t see them. They often cause painless bleeding during bowel movements, which may be the only symptom and, therefore, go unnoticed for some time. However, if they become irritated, they can become itchy and uncomfortable. In some cases, internal haemorrhoids may protrude outside the anus, becoming prolapsed.
Prolapsed Haemorrhoids
Prolapsed haemorrhoids occur when internal haemorrhoids push through the anal opening, often during bowel movements. Depending on the severity, they may retract on their own, or you may need to push them back in manually. Prolapsed haemorrhoids can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding and may need more intensive haemorrhoid treatment if they do not improve with other treatments.
What Causes Haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids develop due to increased pressure on the blood vessels in the rectum and anus. The most common influencing factors include:
- Straining During Bowel Movements: Frequent straining, often due to constipation or diarrhoea, can put excessive pressure on the veins in the rectal area, leading to the development of haemorrhoids.
- Heavy Lifting: Regularly lifting heavy objects increases abdominal pressure, which can contribute to the formation of haemorrhoids, especially in individuals already prone to the condition.
- Pregnancy and Childbirth: The increased pressure on the pelvic veins during pregnancy and the strain of childbirth can lead to the development of haemorrhoids.
- Prolonged Sitting: Spending long periods sitting, particularly on the toilet, can cause blood to pool in the veins of the rectum, increasing the risk of haemorrhoids.
- Obesity: Excess body weight puts additional pressure on the pelvic region, contributing to the development of haemorrhoids.
- Low-Fibre Diet: A diet low in fibre can lead to hard stools and constipation, both of which increase the likelihood of straining during bowel movements and developing haemorrhoids.
How are Haemorrhoids Treated?
Just like with symptoms, the type and severity of your haemorrhoids will affect the treatment available. Treatment options range from at-home remedies to medical procedures tailored to address the specific kind of haemorrhoid.
Treatment for Internal Haemorrhoids
For internal haemorrhoids, initial treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated to ease bowel movements and reduce straining.
Over-the-counter haemorrhoid creams and suppositories can also help reduce inflammation and discomfort. If these measures are ineffective, medical procedures like rubber band ligation, where a band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off blood flow, may be recommended.
Treatment for External Haemorrhoids
External haemorrhoids often respond well to home treatments, such as warm baths, ice packs, and haemorrhoid creams to relieve pain and swelling. If a blood clot forms within an external haemorrhoid, causing significant pain, a doctor may perform a minor procedure called thrombectomy to remove the clot.
Treatment for Prolapsed Haemorrhoids
Prolapsed haemorrhoids may be treated with the same methods used for internal haemorrhoids if the prolapse is mild. However, if the haemorrhoid remains outside the anus and is difficult to manage with non-surgical methods, more invasive options like haemorrhoidectomy and the surgical removal of haemorrhoids might be necessary.
When To Get Help For Haemorrhoids
You should seek medical attention for haemorrhoids if you experience significant pain or discomfort, persistent rectal bleeding during bowel movements, or a sensation of incomplete vacation, particularly if your symptoms do not improve with at-home treatments.
Additionally, if you notice a hard lump near your anus or if an internal haemorrhoid becomes prolapsed and does not retract on its own, it’s important to consult a doctor. Seeking private treatment for haemorrhoids can ensure prompt and effective care, preventing further complications.
Why Go Private With Mid Ulster Clinic For Your Haemorrhoid Treatment?
If you’re experiencing extreme discomfort or don’t want to suffer through long NHS wait times, going privately will mean you receive long-term relief as quickly as possible.
At Mid Ulster Clinic, we offer:
- Expert Care: Gain access to highly experienced specialists who can accurately diagnose and treat haemorrhoids.
- Advanced Treatment Options: The clinic offers a range of modern haemorrhoid treatment methods, including minimally invasive procedures, to provide effective relief with minimal discomfort and recovery time.
- Prompt Access to Treatment: As a private clinic, you can book appointments that suit you and get swift treatment, which helps you manage your symptoms and prevent complications without long waiting times.
- Personalised Care: Your treatment plan is customised to your specific condition, so you receive comprehensive care that addresses the symptoms and underlying causes of your haemorrhoids.
Take the first step towards lasting relief and personalised care by booking a consultation at Mid Ulster Clinic. Let our experts help you find the most effective treatment for your haemorrhoids today.
- Medically Reviewed