What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are normal vascular structures in the anal canal, which help with stool control. Composed of blood vessels and connective tissue, they act as "cushions". Although most people think haemorrhoids are abnormal, everyone has them, and the haemorrhoidal cushions remain unnoticed. However, if they become enlarged and inflamed, they are considered a health problem.

Haemorrhoid type depends on where it originates:

• Internal haemorrhoids originate at the top (rectal side) of the anal canal
• External haemorrhoids originate at the lower end of the anal canal near the anus

A prolapsed haemorrhoid occurs when an internal haemorrhoid continues enlarging until it bulges into the anal canal, occasionally protruding from the anus. A prolapsed haemorrhoid can return inside, but is likely to prolapse again with the next bowel movement.

What are inflamed haemorrhoid symptoms?

The anal canal contains visceral nerves (rectal side) and somatic nerves (near the anus). Visceral nerves are like the nerves of the intestines and do not sense pain, only pressure. Somatic nerves are like the nerves of the skin and can sense pain. Therefore, internal haemorrhoids, which are closer to the rectum, are usually painless.

Haemorrhoids are exposed to stools as they pass through the anal canal. When stools are hard, this exposure may cause bleeding, and sometimes pain. If stools leak onto the anal skin, this may cause itchiness. The pulled rectal lining also secretes mucous, which moistens the anus and surrounding skin. This moisture may cause increased anal itchiness.

Internal haemorrhoids are often noticed when people see drops of blood in the toilet bowl or on the toilet paper, whereas external haemorrhoids are noticed when people wipe themselves after a bowel movement. If blood clots inside the haemorrhoid (thrombosis), the person feels tenderness, burning, itching or pain.

Haemorrhoid symptoms tend to last just a few days, but consult your doctor if symptoms persist or if you have severe pain or bleeding.

What causes haemorrhoids?

Internal haemorrhoids form when blood vessels of the anal cushions swell, causing the supporting haemorrhoidal tissue to increase until the enlarged mass of tissues and blood vessels protrudes into the anal canal. It is still unclear why haemorrhoids enlarge,although there are several causes, the reason for the swelling is unknown.

Causes include:

• Lack of fibre in the diet
• Prolonged sitting
• Obesity
• Chronic straining to have a bowel movement
• Pregnancy

Haemorrhoids are most common in those between 45 and 65 years of age, but are equally likely to occur in both men and women.

How can I reduce haemorrhoid outbreaks?

• Eat high-fibre foods
• Increase your fluid intake
• Avoid straining or holding your breath when trying to pass a stool
• Go to the toilet as soon as you need to
• Exercise

Avoid long periods of standing or sitting

User guide

Roid Relief is designed to relieve pain or itching in the anal area and to help stop haemorrhoidal bleeding.

Directions for use

Moisten cotton wool with water, and then apply 4-6 drops of oil. Dab on affected area 2-4 times a day; apply daily until problem is gone. Roid Relief can be used safely along with all Hemorrhoids No More treatments.