Although the terms “hemorrhoids” and “rectal varicose veins” are often used interchangeably, they are separate conditions with different causes and treatments.
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in the rectum or around the anus. They can occur internally or externally. Symptoms include pain, itching, and uncomfortable sitting.
Rectal varicose veins are bulges in the blood vessels in the rectum in the last few inches of the large intestine. They develop due to increased blood pressure in the veins that drain blood from large parts of the intestines to the liver, causing blood to back up into the rectum.
High blood pressure in these veins is known as portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is general In people with liver disease.
Learn more about the differences between hemorrhoids and rectal varicose veins, including the differences in symptoms, causes, and treatments.
Here we will look at the symptoms of hemorrhoids and rectal varicose veins.
hemorrhoid symptoms
External hemorrhoids can cause:
- anal itching
- One or more hard or soft lumps near the anus
- Anal pain worsens when sitting
internal hemorrhoids
Prolapsed hemorrhoids can also cause symptoms similar to external hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of rectal varicose veins
Portal hypertension causes rectal varices. Symptoms of portal hypertension include:
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38% In some cases, rectal varices may bleed. If there is bleeding, prompt medical attention is required. Without proper treatment, death can occur.If you develop bleeding rectal varices, especially if you have been diagnosed with cirrhosis, go to your nearest urgent care clinic.
Hemorrhoids and rectal varices have different underlying causes.
hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure around the anus and rectum.They are
- Straining during defecation
- sitting for a long time
- chronic constipation or diarrhea
- lift something heavy
rectal varicose veins
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Most people with rectal varicose veins have liver cirrhosis. According to studies, the incidence of rectal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis is:
Rectal varices can also occur in the following cases:
The following people are more likely to get hemorrhoids:
- Have a family history of hemorrhoids
- have obesity
- I am pregnant
- I’m over 50 years old
Endoscopy is the main method for diagnosing rectal varicose veins. An endoscope is a long tube with a camera at the end that is inserted into the anus. Endoscopic ultrasound may be able to detect varicose veins that cannot be detected using an endoscope.
Doctors can usually diagnose hemorrhoids by examining the area around the anus. An anoscope or proctoscope may be used to examine the anus and lower rectum.
Rectal varices and hemorrhoids are treated with different treatments.
rectal varicose veins
Rectal varices can often be managed surgically using an endoscope. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
Several techniques may be used, including:
- Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy: injections are used to constrict blood vessels
- Endoscopic band litigation: An elastic band is placed around the blood vessel to prevent bleeding
- Cyanoacrylate injection: A substance is injected that acts as a plug to cover the varicose veins.
If these treatments are ineffective, more invasive surgery may be necessary.
hemorrhoids
Home remedies can often treat hemorrhoids. Over-the-counter (OTC) creams and suppositories can help reduce pain, swelling, and itching.
Home remedies for hemorrhoids include:
- eat a high fiber diet
- Taking stool softeners or fiber supplements
- drink lots of water
- Avoid straining when defecating
- Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
- Soaking in a warm bath relieves pain
- Are taking over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen (Advil)
If home treatments are ineffective, your doctor may recommend rubber band ligation or another surgical technique.
Regardless of the cause, it is always a good idea to seek medical attention if rectal bleeding occurs. In some cases, rectal bleeding can be a sign of a serious illness, such as colon cancer.
The sooner you treat hemorrhoids, the faster they will heal. Prolapsed hemorrhoids can cause significant irritation, itching, and pain, so always seek medical attention.
Most doctors recommend using OTC products when:
It is also important to consult your doctor if you have symptoms of liver disease, such as:
Here are some frequently asked questions about rectal varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
What are rectal varicose veins?
Rectal varicose veins are swollen blood vessels within the rectum. These occur as a complication of high blood pressure in the veins that connect to the liver.
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins within the anus or rectum. It can be developed internally or externally. Internal hemorrhoids may prolapse outside the anus.
Are hemorrhoids and rectal varices the same thing?
No, hemorrhoids and rectal varicose veins are different diseases.
Rectal varices occur only in people with high blood pressure in the veins leading to the liver.
Hemorrhoids occur due to increased pressure in the lower rectum. Possible causes include sitting for long periods of time, chronic constipation, and straining during bowel movements.
Rectal varices are caused by high blood pressure in the veins leading to the liver. Cirrhosis of the liver often causes these.
Hemorrhoids are more common. It occurs due to increased pressure around the anus.
If you notice blood in your bowel movements, it’s best to see a doctor. You should also see your doctor if you have pain around your anus that doesn’t improve after taking over-the-counter or home remedies for about a week.