Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting veins in the lower rectum and anus. While often not life-threatening, ignoring these swollen veins can lead to various issues that significantly impact comfort and health.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids develop when blood vessels in the rectum or around the anus become swollen, similar to varicose veins. They are broadly categorized into internal and external types. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and are typically not visible or painful unless they protrude. External hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus and are often more noticeable.
Common symptoms include bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, particularly after a bowel movement. People may also experience itching or irritation in the anal region, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness. External hemorrhoids can cause pain, especially if a blood clot forms within them.
Potential Complications of Untreated Hemorrhoids
Leaving hemorrhoids untreated can lead to several health issues. One common complication is thrombosed hemorrhoids, which occur when a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid. This can cause severe and sudden pain, with swelling and a hard, discolored lump near the anus. While very painful, this type of clot usually does not travel to other parts of the body.
A more serious but rare complication is strangulated hemorrhoids, which happens when an internal hemorrhoid that has prolapsed (protruded outside the anus) has its blood supply cut off by the anal muscles. This can lead to intense pain and tissue death, a condition called gangrene. Chronic or heavy bleeding from hemorrhoids can also result in iron-deficiency anemia, causing symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
The integrity of the skin around hemorrhoids can be compromised, increasing the risk of infection. Bacteria can enter a bleeding hemorrhoid, potentially leading to symptoms like fever, redness, and abscess formation.
Internal hemorrhoids can also prolapse, bulging outside the anus. If left untreated, they may become irreducible, causing persistent discomfort and making hygiene difficult.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Seek medical attention for hemorrhoids in certain circumstances. Any rectal bleeding, especially if it is new, heavy, or persistent, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. This is to rule out more serious underlying conditions, as symptoms of hemorrhoids can overlap with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer.
Severe or worsening pain that significantly impacts daily life also warrants a doctor’s visit. If hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve with home care or self-management within about a week, professional advice is recommended. Additionally, if bleeding is accompanied by dizziness or faintness, or if there is any new lump or swelling that causes concern, immediate medical attention is advisable.
Addressing Common Concerns About Hemorrhoids
A common concern is whether hemorrhoids can lead to cancer. Hemorrhoids themselves are not cancerous and do not cause cancer. However, rectal bleeding, a common symptom of hemorrhoids, can also be a symptom of more serious conditions like colorectal cancer, making medical evaluation of bleeding necessary.
Another common question is whether hemorrhoids always worsen over time. While some minor hemorrhoids may resolve on their own, many can persist or increase in severity without intervention, affecting quality of life.
Many worry that hemorrhoids always require surgery. The majority of hemorrhoid cases can be managed effectively with less invasive methods, such as lifestyle changes or office-based procedures like banding. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments or involve significant complications.