For many Australians, hemorrhoid discomfort is a common and frequently upsetting issue. Swollen veins in the anal canal or surrounding the anus are called hemorrhoids, or piles, and they can be extremely painful, itchy, and cause bleeding. To obtain relief and enhance quality of life, it is crucial to comprehend the nature of hemorrhoid discomfort, appropriate management techniques, and when to seek medical attention.
What Causes Hemorrhoid Pain?
Inflammation, edema, or problems like thrombosis (blood clots) in the hemorrhoidal veins are the usual causes of hemorrhoid pain. Due to the abundance of nerve endings in this location, external hemorrhoids that form beneath the skin around the anus typically cause more discomfort. Although they are typically less painful, internal hemorrhoids—which are found inside the rectum—can be uncomfortable if they prolapse or become strangled.
Common triggers of hemorrhoid pain include:
- Straining during bowel movements, often due to constipation
- Sitting for prolonged periods, especially on the toilet
- Pregnancy and childbirth, which increase pressure in pelvic veins
- Heavy lifting or physical exertion
- Anal irritation from hygiene products or diarrhea
Recognising Symptoms of Painful Hemorrhoids
Symptoms associated with hemorrhoid pain include:
- Sharp or throbbing pain around the anus
- Itching and irritation
- Swelling or lumps near the anal opening
- Pain during or after bowel movements
- Bright red bleeding on toilet paper or in stool
Thrombosed external hemorrhoids can cause sudden, severe pain and a hard lump near the anus due to a trapped blood clot.
How to Relieve Hemorrhoid Pain at Home
Many Australians find relief from hemorrhoid pain through simple self-care measures:
- Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Cold Compresses: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area helps reduce swelling and numb pain.
- Warm Sitz Baths: Sitting in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day can soothe pain and promote healing.
- Topical Treatments: Medicated creams and ointments containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or witch hazel reduce itching, swelling, and pain. These are widely available at Australian pharmacies.
- Avoid Straining: Use stool softeners or increase dietary fibre and water intake to prevent constipation and reduce pressure during bowel movements.
- Good Hygiene: Gently clean the anal area with warm water and avoid harsh soaps or wipes.
Medical Treatments for Persistent or Severe Pain
When home remedies are insufficient, Australian healthcare providers offer several medical interventions:
- Rubber Band Ligation: A common outpatient procedure where small bands are placed around internal hemorrhoids to cut off blood supply, causing them to shrink. It may cause mild discomfort after the procedure.
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a chemical solution to shrink hemorrhoids, suitable for some internal hemorrhoids.
- Infrared Coagulation: Uses heat to reduce hemorrhoid size and symptoms.
- Surgical Options: For severe or thrombosed hemorrhoids causing intense pain, procedures like hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal) or stapled hemorrhoidopexy may be recommended. Surgery is effective but involves post-operative pain and recovery time.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain that does not improve with home treatment
- Heavy or persistent bleeding
- Prolapsed hemorrhoids that cannot be pushed back in
- Signs of infection such as fever, pus, or severe swelling
- Difficulty passing urine or bowel movements
Early consultation helps rule out other conditions and ensures appropriate treatment.
Summary
Hemorrhoid pain is a common issue in Australia, often caused by swollen or thrombosed veins near the anus. While mild to moderate pain can usually be managed with home remedies like painkillers, sitz baths, and topical creams, persistent or severe pain may require medical procedures or surgery. Maintaining a high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements are key preventive measures.