Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids – also called piles – are swollen, painful veins in the lower part of the rectum. Internal haemorrhoids occur inside the anus, while external haemorrhoids occur just at the opening to the anus and may hang outside it.

Common in both men and women, haemorrhoids are most commonly caused by straining during bowel movements because of constipation. Sitting for long periods, constipation and some anal infections may also cause haemorrhoids, and they also often occur in women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Haemorrhoids may be successfully treated with over-the-counter remedies, although extreme cases may require surgical intervention. After haemorrhoids have been successfully treated, dietary changes such as increasing fibre and fluid intake may help to prevent recurrence.   

Signs, Symptoms & Diagnosis

The symptoms of haemorrhoids are variable and may include:

- itching or pain in the anus (particularly while sitting)

- one or more sensitive lumps near the anus

- pain during bowel movements or blood on the toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl.

In most cases, a doctor should be able to diagnose haemorrhoids by examining the rectal area. If not, tests that may be required include a stool guaiac (a smear test to identify the presence of blood), an anoscopy (an internal examination of the lower bowel using a speculum) and a sigmoidoscopy (an internal examination of the colon using a sigmoidoscope).

How to Treat Haemorrhoids

In many cases, haemorrhoids may be treated with over-the-counter preparations. Internal haemorrhoids are often treated with creams and suppositories inserted into the rectum. External haemorrhoids may be treated with creams that are directly applied.

Some of the treatments available for haemorrhoids include:

- applying a corticosteroid-containing cream (to minimize pain and swelling);

- applying a lidocaine-containing cream (to reduce pain);

- gently swabbing the anal area with witch hazel (to decrease itchiness);

- taking a stool softener (to help relieve straining associated with constipation).

To minimize discomfort, it is advisable to wear cotton underwear, avoid scratching the anal area, and use toilet paper that is perfume-free and colour-free.

Applying a cold compress to the rectal area may relieve swelling associated with symptoms. Some people also achieve symptom-relief by sitting in a warm salt-bath (also called a “sitz-bathâ€).

To treat more severe cases of haemorrhoids – usually those involving severe pain or bleeding – a doctor may recommend medical procedures, such as surgical removal of the haemorrhoid, an injection into the haemorrhoid (to shrink it), or rubber-band ligation.

Haemorrhoid Treatment Products from Netpharmacy:

Anusol Suppositories 12 Treatments

Anusol Ointment 50g

Proctosedyl Ointment

Proctosedyl Suppositories

When to See Your Doctor

If you have haemorrhoids that do not respond to home-treatment with over-the-counter products, or if you have any bleeding from your rectum, see your doctor.

Helpful Links

Everybody.co.nz

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NIDDK)

MedlinePlus