HEMORRHOIDS (PILES)

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common ailments known.
More than half the population will develop hemorrhoids, usually after age 30.
Many Singaporeans currently suffer from hemorrhoids.
The average person suffers in silence for a long period before seeking medical care.
Today's treatment methods make some types of hemorrhoid removal much less painful.

Commonly known as piles, hemorrhoids are abnormally enlarged and bulging blood vessels in and about the anus and lower rectum. There are two types of hemorrhoids: external and internal, which refer to their location.

External (outside) hemorrhoids develop near the anus and are covered by very sensitive skin. If a blood clot develops in one of them, a painful swelling may occur. The external hemorrhoid feels like a hard, sensitive lump. It bleeds only if it ruptures.

Internal (inside) hemorrhoids develop within the anus beneath the lining. Painless bleeding and protrusion during bowel movements are the most common symptom. However, an internal hemorrhoid can cause severe pain if it is completely "prolapsed" - protrudes from the anal opening and cannot be pushed back inside.

WHAT CAUSES HEMORRHOIDS?

An exact cause is unknown; however, the upright posture of humans alone forces a great deal of pressure on the rectal veins, which sometimes cause them to bulge. Other contributing factors include:

Aging
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
Pregnancy
Heredity
Faulty bowel function due to overuse of laxative or enemas; straining during bowel movements
Spending long periods of time (e.g., reading) on the toilet

Whatever the cause, the tissues supporting the veins stretch. As a result, the veins dilate; their walls become thin and bleed. If the stretching and pressure continue, the weakened veins protrude.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Bleeding during bowel movements
Lump at the anus coming out during bowel movements
Itching in the anal area
Pain
Sensitive lump(s)

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