Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus and rectum. The haemorrhoidal veins are located in the lowest part of the rectum and the anus.

What are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus and rectum. The haemorrhoidal veins are located in the lowest part of the rectum and the anus. Sometimes they swell so that the vein walls become stretched, thin, and irritated by passing bowel movements.

What different types are there?

Haemorrhoids are classified into two general categories - internal and external.

Internal haemorrhoids lie far enough inside the rectum that you can't see or feel them. They don't usually hurt because there are few pain-sensing nerves in the rectum. Bleeding may be the only sign that they are there. Internal haemorrhoids are deeper and initially form above a point 2-3 cm inside the back passage (anal canal) in the upper part of the anal canal.
External haemorrhoids lie within the anus and are often uncomfortable. If an external haemorrhoid prolapses to the outside (usually in the course of passing a stool), you can see and feel it. External haemorrhoids start off nearer the surface, below a point 2-3 cm inside the back passage.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms often depend on whether a haemorrhoid is located on the inside or outside of the body. Signs and symptoms of haemorrhoids may include:

pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
pain during bowel movements
itching or irritation around the anal region
bright red blood on your stools, toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
swelling around the anus
one or more lumps near the anus, which might be tender or painful.
Bleeding during bowel movements is the most common sign of haemorrhoids. Rectal bleeding can, however, indicate a more serious condition, such as bowel cancer or anal cancer. You should consult if your haemorrhoids:
bleed frequently or excessively
do not respond to self-treatment
if haemorrhoid symptoms have been accompanied by an obvious change in bowel habits
if you are passing black or maroon-coloured stools
blood clots have formed
blood is mixed in with the stool.

Causes

Haemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum. The blood vessels around the anus and in the rectum will stretch under pressure and may swell or bulge, forming piles. This may be due to: