Inflammation of the veins present in the anus of a human being is known as haemorrhoids. Blood vessels located in the lower rectum might also get swollen in this anal pathological condition. For those who have had haemorrhoids in the past or suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) should consider getting tested for underlying conditions.
Symptoms
To understand the signs and symptoms of this condition, it is important to know the three types of haemorrhoids. The most common type is external haemorrhoids in which the swollen blood vessels are situated outside the anus. The patient might experience itching in the region around the anus along with pain and discomfort during a bowel movement. In some cases, bleeding might also occur, especially while passing hard stool. The second type is known as internal haemorrhoids wherein the inflamed veins are inside the rectum. As these veins cannot be touched, they do not cause immediate pain. However, significant straining can take place during a bowel movement. Prolapsed haemorrhoids is another indicator as the inflamed blood vessels might protrude outside the anus. The last type is called thrombosed haemorrhoids as it is associated with thrombus or blood clots in an external haemorrhoid. Severe anal pain, increased inflammation and a lump near the anus are indicators of this type of haemorrhoids.
Causes
The main cause of haemorrhoids is the pressure experienced by the veins near the anus. As the pressure increases during a bowel movement, the veins are further strained leading to swelling or inflammation in the region. Sitting for long periods, specifically on the toilet, is also considered a cause of this condition. Individuals who are overweight can have more episodes of haemorrhoids than others as well. Heavy-weight lifting, consuming a low-fibre diet and engaging in anal intercourse are other known causes of haemorrhoids. Moreover, several women experience this medical condition during their pregnancy and even after giving birth. Family history plays a big role in developing haemorrhoids as well. Children who have one or both parents suffering from haemorrhoids are bound to experience it, at least once in their lifetime. For this reason, it is advised to follow a healthy lifestyle and consume a fibre-rich diet daily. Consulting a reputed gastroenterologist is highly advised to treat this disease effectively.
Treatment
In mild cases, the medical practitioner would prescribe a haemorrhoid cream, oral pain relievers, and a sitz bath to the patient. This is considered to soothe the swollen veins within a few days. However, if the discomfort, bleeding and swelling do not subside then the doctor might perform an anoscope or even a proctoscope to examine the colon. Minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy and coagulation are performed on patients who have bleeding haemorrhoids. In the most severe cases, surgery is performed to remove the haemorrhoids. The surgeon might opt for a haemorrhoidectomy or a haemorrhoid stapling depending upon the damage.
Regular health check-ups from a reputed pathology lab can help in detecting serious illnesses related to haemorrhoids in the early stages. Many pathology labs offer check-up packages at reasonable prices. From these lab tests and diagnostic application you can book tests and get test results online as well. With the help of such a good lab, diagnosing and treating this disease can be very helpful.