Hemorrhoids

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, is a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum become swollen or inflamed.

Types of hemorrhoids

There are 3 types of hemorrhoids:

• Internal hemorrhoids
• External hemorrhoids
• Thrombosed hemorrhoids

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Symptoms depend on the type of hemorrhoid.

External hemorrhoids – Symptoms include:

• Itchy
• Irritation
• Pain in the anus and surrounding area
• Swelling
• Bleed

Internal hemorrhoids – Internal hemorrhoids are usually invisible and rarely cause discomfort. However, straining or irritation during bowel movements can cause:

• Bleed
• Prolapse or prolapse of hemorrhoids, which can be painful

Thrombosed hemorrhoids – This condition is caused by a blood clot or thrombosis forming in the hemorrhoid. You will notice a hard lump near the anus that is swollen, inflamed and painful.

Other symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Blood in stool
• Anal itching
• There is a tumor in the anus.

Note: Hemorrhoid symptoms can resemble those of colorectal cancer. Consult your doctor for a full evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are associated with increased pressure or straining. Causes include:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Obesity
• Lifting heavy objects continuously
• Standing for many hours
• Sitting for long periods of time, especially on the toilet
• Family history of hemorrhoids
• Pregnant

What are the risk factors for hemorrhoids?

In Singapore, 1 in 3 people suffer from hemorrhoids. They are especially common in people over 40 and during pregnancy.

Risk factors that contribute to the development of hemorrhoids include:

• Obesity
• Family history
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Low fiber diet or too high fiber diet
• Poor toilet habits such as straining too much or sitting on the toilet for long periods of time increase pressure on hemorrhoids.

What are the complications and related diseases of hemorrhoids?

Complications from hemorrhoids are uncommon, but may include:

• Anemia. This condition is due to blood loss from chronic hemorrhoids.
• Blood clot. This condition is also known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Surgery may be required in some cases.

How to prevent hemorrhoids?

To prevent or reduce the risk of hemorrhoids:

• Don’t hold in your bowel movements . Stools can become dry and hard. This can lead to straining and increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. It can also cause painless internal hemorrhoids to become painful external hemorrhoids.
• Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time . Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time puts extra pressure on the blood vessels in the anus.
• Eat more fiber . This helps prevent constipation and straining. Also, consider taking a fiber supplement.
• Drink plenty of water . This helps avoid dehydration, which contributes to dry, hard stools and constipation.
• Exercise regularly . This prevents digestive problems by helping food and waste move through the digestive tract. However, avoid sports or activities that involve heavy lifting.

Hemorrhoids can recur after healing. Therefore, adopt healthy lifestyle habits to avoid future hemorrhoid attacks.