Haemorrhoids, often referred to as piles, are a prevalent yet frequently misunderstood medical issue in Nigeria. Although they are common, many individuals postpone treatment until their symptoms become serious.
In an interview with PT Health Watch, Shola Fasiku, a general surgeon affiliated with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, stated that while this condition is common, it is often underreported due to patients delaying hospital visits until they are in significant discomfort or facing complications.
Mr. Fasiku elucidated that haemorrhoids are essentially swollen veins within the lower rectum or anus, a condition frequently overlooked or simplistically termed “piles.”
What are haemorrhoids?
Mr. Fasiku defined haemorrhoids as “dilatations of the inner cushions,” referring to the internal columns in the rectum where the veins terminate.
He explained that haemorrhoids are classified into four grades based on their severity:
1\. First-degree haemorrhoids are internal.
2\. Second-degree haemorrhoids protrude during straining but can retract independently.
3\. Third-degree haemorrhoids also protrude during straining but require manual intervention to reposition.
4\. Fourth-degree haemorrhoids remain outside and cannot be pushed back in.
Notably, the fourth degree sometimes leads to thrombosis, causing considerable pain.
Haemorrhoids vs. Rectal Bleeding
Mr. Fasiku noted that there is a common misconception that all rectal bleeding is due to haemorrhoids. He clarified that while haemorrhoids can cause bleeding, it is essential to differentiate this from other causes. In cases of haemorrhoids, blood usually appears as bright red drops before or after stool passage.
“Haemorrhoids and piles are the same, but the bleeding associated with haemorrhoids is typically bright red,” he said, contrasting it with rectal bleeding caused by tumors, where the blood may mix with stool.
Risks of Untreated Piles
Mr. Fasiku cautioned that neglecting haemorrhoids can lead to severe complications over time. The most common symptom experienced by patients is rectal bleeding, which indicates daily blood loss. This ongoing bleeding could eventually lead to anaemia, characterized by symptoms like dizziness and fainting.
“In extreme situations, this could progress to what we term anaemic heart failure, which may be fatal,” he elaborated, indicating that the progression requires time, dependent on the severity of bleeding from the haemorrhoid.
Additionally, untreated haemorrhoids can develop thrombosis, resulting in intense discomfort.
Herbal Remedies as Treatment
Despite the treatable nature of haemorrhoids, Mr. Fasiku expressed skepticism regarding the efficacy of herbal cures, maintaining that established treatments such as ligation or surgical removal are effective solutions for addressing the swollen veins. He cautioned that herbal remedies might lead to unintended impacts on other organs, as some patients who self-treat with herbal mixtures often present subsequent health issues unrelated to haemorrhoids.
“Prescription accuracy is crucial concerning herbal treatments, and that’s why we advise against relying on herbal mixtures,” he stated.
Who is at Risk?
Mr. Fasiku outlined several risk factors for developing haemorrhoids, including pregnancy, as multiple pregnancies amplify the likelihood. He noted that any condition increasing abdominal or venous pressure could predispose an individual to haemorrhoids. Chronic constipation, which forces individuals to strain during bowel movements, is a major contributor.
“Patients with chronic constipation who experience frequent straining while passing stool are more susceptible to haemorrhoids,” he stressed.
Additional risk factors include chronic coughing, diarrhea, abdominal tumors such as large fibroids, and ascites, which involves fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity.
He also emphasized the importance of diet in the prevention and management of the condition, advising a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and adequate hydration.
“Foods that alleviate constipation, such as beans, which are high in fiber, can help soften stool and minimize straining,” he added.
Treatment Approaches
Doctors typically initiate treatment with conservative strategies and office- based procedures before considering surgical intervention. Mr. Fasiku indicated that conservative management techniques, including rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy, are often used for first and second-degree haemorrhoids, as well as selected cases of third-degree haemorrhoids.
“For fourth-degree and some later-stage third-degree cases, surgical options, specifically a haemorrhoidectomy, are necessary,” he noted. He underscored that early medical attention and thorough evaluations are vital for preventing complications.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!