Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding. While mild cases often resolve with home remedies and lifestyle changes, some situations require medical intervention. Ignoring severe symptoms can lead to complications, so recognizing the warning signs is crucial. Dr Amita Jain the leading piles specialist and surgeon in Delhi shares signs to look out for.
What are some of the signs that show your piles or haemorrhoids need medical intervention?
Persistent Pain and Discomfort
Mild haemorrhoids may cause temporary discomfort, but if the pain becomes persistent and severe, it could indicate a more serious condition. Thrombosed haemorrhoids, where a blood clot forms within an external haemorrhoid, can cause intense pain and require prompt medical attention. If you experience ongoing pain despite home treatment, consult a doctor.
Excessive or Prolonged Bleeding
Occasional light bleeding during bowel movements is common with haemorrhoids. However, if you notice excessive or prolonged bleeding, it may signal a more serious problem such as an anal fissure, infection, or even colorectal conditions. Bright red blood in the stool or on toilet paper should be monitored, and if it persists, seeking medical advice is essential.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can sometimes extend outside the anal opening, known as prolapsed hemorrhoids. While minor prolapse may retract on its own, severe cases can become painful, swollen, and difficult to push back inside. If you experience discomfort, irritation, or difficulty managing prolapsed hemorrhoids, medical treatment might be necessary.
Chronic Itching and Irritation
Hemorrhoids can cause persistent itching and irritation around the anal area, leading to significant discomfort. If over-the-counter creams, sitz baths, and hygiene practices do not provide relief, a doctor can recommend appropriate treatments such as prescription medications or procedures to alleviate symptoms.
Changes in Bowel Movements
If hemorrhoids cause difficulty passing stool or lead to constipation, straining can worsen the condition. On the other hand, persistent diarrhea can also aggravate hemorrhoids. If you notice significant changes in bowel habits that do not improve with dietary adjustments, a doctor can help address the underlying issue.
Swelling and Lumps
Large, swollen hemorrhoids can form hard lumps near the anus, which may be tender or painful. If swelling increases and does not subside with home treatment, medical intervention may be required to prevent further complications.
Infection and Pus Formation
Though rare, hemorrhoids can become infected, leading to abscesses and pus formation. Symptoms such as fever, severe pain, and drainage of pus from the rectal area require immediate medical evaluation. An untreated infection can lead to more serious health issues.
When should you see a doctor for a piles issue?
If you experience any of the above symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the severity of your condition, options may include:
- Prescription medications for pain and inflammation
- Minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or coagulation
- Surgical interventions for severe cases, such as hemorrhoidectomy
While hemorrhoids are common and often manageable with home care, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Seeking timely medical intervention can prevent complications, reduce discomfort, and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing significant pain, bleeding, prolapse, or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional to explore appropriate treatment options.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with the highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi and Sr. General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals, Malviya Nagar, Delhi.