How to know if you have haemorrhoids

Today we are talking haemorrhoids so get the giggling over before we start!

Hemorrhoids, spelled as haemorrhoids in the UK, are also commonly referred to as piles. The mere mention of this condition can result in hoots of laughter, but not for the person who has piles.

This condition can cause embarrassment, pain and more but it does not have to be like that. These days haemorrhoids can be successfully treated quickly by over the counter remedies; in the long term though further treatment may be necessary.

During the current coronavirus #StayHome inactivity and changes in diet you could end up with problems with piles.

Haemorrhoids can occur in a woman during pregnancy, a young person or more commonly an older person. Many people develop haemorrhoids so really there is nothing to feel embarrassed about. As with most medical conditions diagnosis is key. The signs and symptoms of haemorrhoids could be indicators of more serious health problems and so confirmation by a health-care professional is advisable, if not essential.

What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoid is the name used for the swelling or inflammation of the veins around the anus. This can also happen in the rectum.

The veins may become very large, itchy, painful and bleed from time to time. In some cases passing stools will be very painful and further bleeding may occur. Haemorrhoids are sometimes described as varicose veins.

Haemorrhoids may be present internally, externally or both.

What causes haemorrhoids?
The possible cause of haemorrhoids could be:

• A diet high in processed foods which includes little, if any, fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Severe constipation or diarrhoea.
• Certain medication. Ask your pharmacist if in doubt.
• Pregnancy.
• Being very overweight.
• Delaying opening your bowels when you need to.
• A family tendency for such health problems.
• Anal intercourse.
• Your increasing age.
• A sedentary lifestyle.
• Sitting on the toilet for too long, especially if you frequently strain in an attempt to open your bowels.
  

How to know if you have haemorrhoids

In general the signs and symptoms of haemorrhoids may include:

• Bleeding from the rectum or anus. You may only see signs of this when you wipe yourself after using the toilet.
• Some pain which may increase after bowel motions, when you need to use the toilet or if you have to sit for long periods of time. Sitting on hard seating will increase the pain.
• An itchy bottom. Scratching may offer temporary relief but may also make matters worse.
• A swelling or lump near the anus or lying under the skin in this area of your body.
• Haemorrhoids may actually be seen as a lump or lumps protruding from your rectum.

Initially you may notice only one or two of the signs and symptoms of haemorrhoids as detailed above. Seeking a medical diagnosis is important as some of these symptoms could indicate a more serious illness, such as cancer, or be an indicator of other bowel problems. In particular passing blood when you open your bowels could be worrying.

However once you have the correct diagnosis there are many treatments available which should improve, or maybe cure, your haemorrhoids. Certainly a good diet is a must.

For your medical professional to confirm that you have haemorrhoids he or she will need to carry out a physical examination. This should be relatively painless but of course it will depend how bad the haemorrhoids are. It will be better if you seek an early diagnosis before the problem worsens.

You will need

• A list of your signs and symptoms for your health-care professional.
• Confirmation of haemorrhoids after examination by a health-care professional.

Tips & Warnings  

• Try not to be embarrassed.
• Your doctor will have seen haemorrhoids many times before.
• Never ignore health issues because you feel embarrassed to discuss them with your doctor or undergo a physical examination.

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