Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins that resemble varicose veins in the anus and lower rectum. The walls of these blood vessels can sometimes stretch so thin that the veins bulge and become irritated, especially when you poop. Internal hemorrhoids can form inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). One of the most common causes of rectal bleeding is hemorrhoids. They usually go away on their own, but treatments can help.

Signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids usually depend on the type of hemorrhoid. The external hemorrhoids are under the skin around your anus. Signs and symptoms might include itching or irritation in your anal region, pain or discomfort, swelling around your anus, and bleeding. In internal hemorrhoids, you can't see or feel them and they rarely cause discomfort. But straining or irritation when passing stool can cause painless bleeding during bowel movements and hemorrhoids to push through the anal opening (prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid), resulting in pain and irritation. If blood pools in external hemorrhoid and forms a clot (thrombus), it can result in severe pain, swelling, inflammation, and a hard lump near your anus.

Consult your doctor if you have bleeding during bowel movements or hemorrhoids that do not improve after a week of home care. You should not assume that rectal bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids especially if your bowel habits have changed or your stools have changed in color or consistency. Rectal bleeding can occur as a result of other disease such as colorectal cancer and anal cancer. If you have severe rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness, or faintness, seek immediate medical attention.

Your doctor's treatment plan will be determined by the severity of your symptoms. Simple lifestyle changes can often alleviate mild hemorrhoids symptoms in 2 -7 days. Fiber can be added to your diet by eating foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes. Over-the-counter fiber supplements can also help soften stool if you don’t get enough fiber from food. You should also drink more water. It will help you avoid hard stools and constipation in order to strain less during bowel movements. Physical activity such as walking 30 minutes every day can also keep your blood vessels healthy and can help maintain proper bowel movements. Use the toilet as soon as you feel the urge and don’t strain during a bowel movement or sit on the toilet for long periods. These will give more pressures on your veins. Lastly, keep a healthy weight!

-PNFP Rowence F. Zorilla, RND

References:

1. Hemorrhoids

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268#:~:text=Hemorrhoids%20are%20swollen%20veins%20in,rectum%2C%20similar%20to%20varicose%20veins.

2. Hemorrhoids

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics