Haemorrhoids: symptoms and treatment
Haemorrhoids are a common ailment. Up to 50% of the population will suffer from them at least once in their lifetime. Haemorrhoids are pillow-like clusters of veins between the rectum and the anus. Their function is to seal the anus efficiently. If the haemorrhoids become enlarged, they interfere with bowel movements. They start to itch, hurt and bleed. If haemorrhoids are very severe, they will need to be surgically removed.
Why do we get haemorrhoids?
There are several causes of haemorrhoids. Chronic constipation with intense pressure during bowel movements promotes their development. Constant diarrhoea also damages the sensitive pillow-like clusters of veins in the bowel. Pregnancy, obesity and lack of exercise are risk factors for haemorrhoids. The symptoms usually occur from the age of 45, as the blood vessels in the body become thinner. Certain patients have a familial predisposition to haemorrhoids
How are haemorrhoids treated?
The treatment chosen for haemorrhoids depends on the severity of the disease. In the early stages, the haemorrhoids only bulge outward inside the bowel. In later stages, they emerge from the anus (fourth-degree haemorrhoids). They are a nuisance for the sufferer every time they have a bowel movement. A healthy diet, plenty of exercise and drinking enough form the basis of any treatment. Ointments and medication help relieve itching, pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, haemorrhoids are a recurring condition.
When do haemorrhoids require surgery?
If ointments no longer work and the haemorrhoids are always in the way, it is time to consider surgery. The haemorrhoids are tied off with a rubber band and removed. In sclerotherapy, heat is used to destroy the vascular protuberances. Haemorrhoids can also be removed with a traditional scalpel. Nowadays the wounds are mostly sewn up, but they can also be allowed to heal openly. Surgery is performed under general or partial anaesthetic.