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CONDITIONS

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swellings that contain enlarged blood vessels that are found inside or around the bottom (the rectum and anus). Most haemorrhoids are mild and sometimes don’t even cause symptoms. 

When there are symptoms, these usually include:
  • bleeding after passing a stool (the blood will be bright red)

  • itchy bottom

  • a lump hanging down outside of the anus, which may need to be pushed back in after passing a stool

 

Causes of haemorrhoids

The exact cause of haemorrhoids is unclear, but many cases are thought to be linked to increased pressure in blood vessels in and around the anus. This pressure can cause the blood vessels in the back passage to become swollen and inflamed.

 

Who’s at risk?

Factors that increase the chance of getting haemorrhoids include:

  • being overweight or obese

  • persistent constipation, often due to a lack of fibre in the diet

  • prolonged diarrhoea

  • regularly lifting heavy objects

  • a persistent cough or repeated vomiting

  • prolonged sitting down

  • being pregnant, which can place increased pressure on the pelvic blood vessels, causing them to enlarge (the haemorrhoids will usually improve after giving birth)

  • being over 45 years of age as the body’s supporting tissues get weaker, increasing the risk of haemorrhoids

  • a family history of haemorrhoids, which could mean you’re more likely to get them

 

Symptoms of piles (haemorrhoids)
  • bleeding after passing a stool (the blood will be bright red)

  • itchiness around the anus (the opening where stools leave the body)

  • lump hanging down outside of the anus, which may need to be pushed back in after passing a stool

  • mucus discharge after passing a stool

  • soreness, redness and swelling around the anus

 

To know more about Haemorrhoids, click here to download the pdf.

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