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Chronic & Metabolic Health

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, causing pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding.

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Haemorrhoids

What Are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal or anal area that cause discomfort, irritation, and bleeding. They are classified into:

  • Internal Haemorrhoids: Develop inside the rectum and may cause painless bleeding.
  • External Haemorrhoids: Form under the skin around the anus, leading to itching, swelling, and discomfort.
  • Thrombosed Haemorrhoids: Occur when blood clots form inside external haemorrhoids, causing severe pain.

Common causes include chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, obesity, and straining during bowel movements.

Who Needs Haemorrhoid Treatment?

Treatment is recommended for individuals experiencing:

  • Anal itching, pain, or discomfort.
  • Swelling or lumps near the anus.
  • Bright red blood during bowel movements.
  • Painful or irritated hemorrhoidal tissue.
  • Recurring haemorrhoid flare-ups.

How to Treat & Manage Haemorrhoids

Managing haemorrhoids involves medications, lifestyle changes, and home remedies:

Medications for Haemorrhoid Relief:
  • Topical Corticosteroids (Anusol HC, Uniroid HC, Proctosedyl*, Doloproct*): Reduce inflammation, itching, and swelling. *These products often contain topical anaesthetics or analgesics as well.
  • Local Anaesthetics (Lidocaine, Xylocaine, Xyloproct, Procto-Glyvenol): Provide pain relief by numbing the affected area.
  • Vasoconstrictors & Suppositories: Help shrink swollen blood vessels and soothe discomfort.
  • Phlebotonics (diosmin-containing products like Daflon, Venalex): help alleviate haemorrhoid symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving vein function, thereby decreasing swelling and discomfort. Can be used continuously for prevention in cases of often recurring haemorrhoids.
Home Remedies & Lifestyle Adjustments:
  • Increase fibre intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to prevent constipation.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft.
  • Use warm sitz baths to soothe irritation and swelling.
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements by maintaining regular digestion.
  • Use moist wipes or washing instead of dry toilet paper to prevent irritation.
Medical Procedures for Severe Cases:
  • Rubber band ligation: Cuts off blood supply to haemorrhoids, causing them to shrink.
  • Sclerotherapy: Injects a solution to shrink haemorrhoids.
  • Laser haemorrhoidoplasty: minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to shrink and coagulate hemorrhoidal tissue.
  • Surgical haemorrhoid removal (haemorrhoidectomy): Used for severe, persistent cases.

A well-managed haemorrhoid treatment plan can:

  • Reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort.
  • Improves bowel movement comfort and prevent straining.
  • Lower the risk of haemorrhoid recurrence.
  • Enhance overall rectal health.
  • Reduce bleeding and irritation.

Important considerations to keep in mind include the following:

  • Haemorrhoids can often be treated at home, but persistent or severe symptoms require medical attention.
  • Overuse of corticosteroid creams can cause skin thinning; use as directed.
  • Lifestyle adjustments are key to long-term relief and prevention.
  • If haemorrhoids cause excessive bleeding or do not improve with treatment, consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Haemorrhoids

Topical corticosteroids (Anusol HC, Uniroid HC) reduce inflammation, while local anaesthetics (Lidocaine, Xylocaine, Xyloproct) relieve pain and discomfort. Combined products (Proctosedyl, Doloproct) containing both corticosteroid and anaesthetic are also prescribed.
Mild haemorrhoids typically heal within 5 to 7 days, while chronic cases may last several weeks. Using topical treatments, warm sitz baths, and increasing fibre intake can speed up recovery. Taking supplements with diosmin is also helpful in preventing haemorrhoids.
Small haemorrhoids often resolve on their own, but symptoms can persist if not managed properly. Preventing constipation, staying hydrated, and using topical relief can help.
A high-fibre diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes prevents constipation and reduces haemorrhoid risk. Drinking plenty of water is also essential.
Consult a doctor if you experience severe pain, bleeding, or haemorrhoids that persist beyond two weeks despite home treatment. If you notice black or tarry stools or excessive bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.

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