Thank you for visiting Gastro IQ.
We have recently merged with Eastern Gastroenterology where we continue to provide
high quality care to patients with a range of digestive health issues.
Please visit us at easterngastro.com.au or call 03 9895 7628 for all appointments and endoscopy enquiries.

亲爱的患者，

自2023年4月20日起，Gastro IQ 将与Eastern Gastroenterology 合并。详见以下新地址及联络方式：
Epworth Eastern East Wing Tower, Level 9.4, 25 Nelson Road, 3128, Box Hill
电话： 03 9895 7628 传真：03 9454 9330 email: admin@easterngastro.com.au
王医生期待继续为您提供高质量的资询服务。谢谢！
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(03) 7038 0988
中文版

Haemorrhoids

What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids, also called “piles”, are swollen veins found on the inside (internal haemorrhoids) or outside (external haemorrhoids) of the anus. They often feel like soft ‘lumps’ of tissue and are the most common cause of bright rectal bleeding.

What causes haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are most commonly caused by constipation and straining while passing a bowel motion. This results in increased pressure on the delicate tissues of the lower rectum and anal canal causing in swelling, irritation and bleeding. Haemorrhoids are also very common after childbirth.
Haemorrhoid

What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?

The most common symptoms associated with haemorrhoids include:
(i) bright red bleeding. This can result in blood on the toilet paper, blood dripping into toilet bowel, or blood coating the sides of the bowel motion.
(ii) a feeling of fullness, or a lump, in the anal area.
(iii) Itchiness around the anal area making it difficult to clean.

How do you diagnose haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are usually diagnosed during a physical examination of the anal area. They may also be identified during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Haemorrhoids are typically categorized as internal, external or both, and can also be graded according to size.

How do you treat haemorrhoids?

Most haemorrhoids cause occasional symptoms but are self-resolving and do not require any treatment. However, in some patients, haemorrhoids do not settle in a timely fashion and cause chronic rectal bleeding and/or irritation of the anal area.

There are several topical medications available that can be used to reduce discomfort and inflammation of the haemorrhoids and surrounding tissue. These are available in creams and suppositories and include a combination of a local anaesthetics, muscle relaxant and steroid anti-inflammatory. Soothing wipes (witch hazel wipes), zinc-based creams and sitz-baths with Epsom can all be effective.

For recurrent or persistent internal haemorrhoids, ‘haemorrhoidal banding’ is one of the most effective treatments. This involves placing an elastic band around the swollen veins, causing the tissue to clot off, and shrink back into place. Most of the time this is done in an endoscopy centre during a colonoscopy. At Gastro IQ, we have ultrathin fibre optic scopes that allow for assessment of the rectum and haemorrhoid banding can be done in clinic.

Once haemorrhoids are successfully treated, it is important to put steps in place to prevent them recurring. Prevention of constipation through dietary changes, gentle laxatives or stool softeners is of utmost importance. Healthy toileting practices such as avoiding ‘straining’ and sitting for long periods on the toilet are also important to implement.