Haemorrhoids, which are characterized by swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, are a common medical condition and a considerable source of discomfort, pain and bleeding for people who live with the condition. Though they are cause for considerable pain and discomfort, haemorrhoids are usually not a serious health concern. In most cases, they clear up on their own and/or with concerted lifestyle chances. That said, haemorrhoids can lead to complications if left untreated.
Haemorrhoids are usually not a serious health concern, and most people can manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. However, in some cases, haemorrhoids can lead to serious complications, especially if left untreated. Below are a few of the most common complications of haemorrhoids.
Anaemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. Haemorrhoids can cause anaemia if they bleed heavily, leading to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body.
A strangulated haemorrhoid occurs when the blood supply to an internal haemorrhoid is cut off, leading to tissue death. This can cause severe pain, swelling and fever. A strangulated haemorrhoid is an immediate medical emergency.
A thrombosed haemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms inside an external haemorrhoid, causing severe pain and swelling around the anus. This condition requires immediate medical attention to relieve the pain and prevent complications.
Haemorrhoids can become infected if bacteria enters the swollen veins around the anus. This can cause fever, pain and swelling, and requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
Faecal incontinence is a condition that occurs when a person loses control of his or her bowel movements. Haemorrhoids can cause faecal incontinence if they interfere with the anal sphincter, which controls the release of stool from the body.
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum protrudes outside the anus. Haemorrhoids can cause rectal prolapse if they weaken the muscles and tissues that support the rectum and anus.
The treatment for haemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms. Mild cases of haemorrhoids can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre intake, drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding sitting for prolonged periods.
Over-the-counter medications, such as creams, ointments and suppositories, can also help relieve the symptoms of haemorrhoids. These medications usually contain ingredients such as hydrocortisone, witch hazel or lidocaine, which can reduce inflammation, itching and pain.
More severe cases of haemorrhoids, however, may require more invasive medical treatments. These treatments may include the following:
Rubber band ligation is a common treatment for internal haemorrhoids. This treatment involves placing a rubber band around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off. This procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office and is minimally invasive.
Sclerotherapy is another treatment option for internal haemorrhoids. It involves injecting a chemical solution into the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and disappear. This procedure is also minimally invasive and can be performed in a doctor’s office.
A haemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove severe or recurring haemorrhoids. It is typically performed under general anaesthesia and involves cutting out the haemorrhoid and the surrounding tissue. This procedure can be painful and requires a longer recovery time than other treatments.
Stapled haemorrhoidopexy is a newer surgical procedure that is less painful and requires a shorter recovery period than a haemorrhoidectomy. It involves stapling the haemorrhoid back into its normal position, reducing blood flow to the affected area and causing it to shrink.
It is important to note that these treatments are typically reserved for severe cases of haemorrhoids that have not responded to other treatments. Most people with haemorrhoids can manage their symptoms with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.
Although haemorrhoids are usually not a serious health issue, they can lead to complications if left untreated or if the treatment is delayed. Here are some risk factors for complications from haemorrhoids:
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea can put strain on the veins in the anus and rectum, increasing the risk of developing haemorrhoids. These conditions can also lead to other complications, such as faecal impaction or dehydration.
Pregnancy can put pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, increasing the risk of developing haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids can also occur during labour and delivery, due to the strain of pushing.
Haemorrhoids are more common in older adults, due to the natural aging process and the weakening of the tissues in the anus and rectum.
People with a family history of haemorrhoids are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
Obesity can put pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, increasing the risk of developing haemorrhoids.
Sitting for prolonged periods can put pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, increasing the risk of developing haemorrhoids.
Straining during bowel movements can put pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, increasing the risk of developing haemorrhoids.
If you experience symptoms of haemorrhoids, such as pain, bleeding, or swelling around the anus, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Delaying treatment can lead to complications and may make the condition more difficult to treat.