Haemorrhoids or piles are abnormally enlarged anal cushions, that are part of the normal anatomy in everyone but become problematic when the blood vessels within become engorged and bleed or prolapse with defaecation.
Haemorrhoids are associated with chronic constipation, excessive straining during bowel movements, and prolonged sitting on the toilet. With pressure on the veins in the pelvic and rectal areas, the blood vessels swell and stretch. This also explains why haemorrhoids are common during pregnancy, when the enlarging uterus presses on the veins.
Piles are characterised by pain, irritation and swelling in the anal area, as well as bleeding during bowel movements.
Haemorrhoids or piles can usually be diagnosed from a simple medical history and physical examination. A digital rectal exam may be performed to check for blood in the stool. The anal canal may also be examined with an anoscope. If there is evidence of rectal bleeding or microscopic blood in the stool, a colonoscopy may be performed to rule out other causes of bleeding, such as colorectal polyps or cancer.
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