Can Haemorrhoids Cause Constipation? Let’s Find Out 

HomePilesCan Haemorrhoids Cause Constipation? Let’s Find Out 
Can Haemorrhoids Cause Constipation? Let’s Find Out 

Haemorrhoids, often referred to as piles, are a common yet uncomfortable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. These swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum and anus can cause significant discomfort, itching, bleeding and pain, especially during bowel movements. 

However, a question that frequently arises is, “Can haemorrhoids cause constipation?” 

Understanding this connection is crucial for those who suffer from haemorrhoids and are looking for ways to alleviate their symptoms. 

In this article, we will explore the relationship between haemorrhoids and constipation, addressing questions like “Can internal haemorrhoids cause constipation?” and “Can haemorrhoids cause constipation and gas?” to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. 

Understanding Haemorrhoids or Piles Condition 

Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. They can be internal, developing inside the anal canal, or external, forming under the skin around the anus. 

Both types can cause discomfort, but internal haemorrhoids are more commonly associated with bleeding during bowel movements, while external haemorrhoids are known for causing pain and discomfort. 

Haemorrhoids can complicate regular bowel movements, leading to discomfort and even fear of passing stools. This can result in a cycle of constipation, where the fear of pain or bleeding during defecation causes individuals to avoid going to the toilet, further exacerbating the problem. 

The Connection Between Haemorrhoids and Constipation 

Many people wonder, “Can haemorrhoids cause constipation?” The answer is not straightforward but can be explained through the symptoms and effects of haemorrhoids. While haemorrhoids themselves do not directly cause constipation, they can create conditions that make constipation more likely. 

When you have haemorrhoids, especially when it is thrombosed, the pain and discomfort during bowel movements can lead to a reluctance to defecate. This avoidance can result in stools becoming harder and drier as they stay longer in the colon, which can, in turn, lead to constipation. This relationship between haemorrhoids and constipation is particularly evident in cases where individuals experience significant pain during defecation, prompting them to delay going to the toilet. 

“Can internal haemorrhoids cause constipation?” is a common question. Internal haemorrhoids, located inside the rectum, may not be painful but can bleed and cause discomfort. The fear of aggravating these haemorrhoids during bowel movements can lead to voluntary constipation, where the person holds in their stools to avoid pain or bleeding or to avoid the protrusion of the pile mass outside. 

Can Haemorrhoids Cause Constipation and Gas? 

The relationship between haemorrhoids, constipation, and gas are closely linked. When someone is dealing with haemorrhoids, especially painful ones, they may avoid or delay bowel movements, which can lead to constipation. Constipation, in turn, can cause gas, as the longer the stool stays in the colon, the more time it has to ferment and produce gas. 

“Can haemorrhoids cause constipation and gas?” is a question that highlights how these issues are interconnected. Constipation can cause bloating and gas as the digestive process becomes less efficient. When stools are not passed regularly, they become harder and drier, making them more difficult to pass. This can lead to increased straining, which not only exacerbates haemorrhoids but also increases the production of gas. 

In some cases, the gas associated with constipation and haemorrhoids can lead to additional discomforts, such as abdominal pain and bloating. These symptoms can further discourage individuals from having regular bowel movements, creating a vicious cycle of constipation, gas, and hemorrhoid-related discomfort. 

How to Prevent Haemorrhoids / Piles? 

How to prevent piles

Eat High-Fibre Foods: 

Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet to ensure a regular and soft stool consistency. High-fibre foods help prevent constipation, which is a leading cause of haemorrhoids. This reduces the need for straining during bowel movements, lowering the risk of developing piles. 

Avoid Long Periods of Sitting: 

Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to haemorrhoids. Take regular breaks to stand up and move around if your daily routine involves long periods of sitting, such as office work or driving. 

Don’t Control When You Need to Go to the Washroom: 

Holding in your bowel movements can lead to harder stools, making them more difficult to pass and increasing the risk of haemorrhoids. It’s important to respond promptly to the urge to go, which can help maintain regular bowel habits and prevent piles. 

Don’t Strain When You Don’t Feel the Urge: 

Straining without the natural urge to have a bowel movement can cause unnecessary pressure on the rectal veins. This can lead to the development of haemorrhoids. Wait until you feel the natural urge to go, and try to relax during the process. 

Drink Plenty of Fluids: 

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps keep stools soft and easy to pass. Adequate fluid intake prevents dehydration, which can cause constipation and contribute to the development of haemorrhoids. 

Walking & Moderate Exercise: 

Regular physical activity, such as walking or moderate exercise, promotes healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Exercise helps prevent constipation and reduces the pressure on the veins that can cause haemorrhoids while also promoting overall cardiovascular health. 

Minimal Exercises During Pregnancy to Reduce Risk of Piles: 

Pregnancy increases the risk of haemorrhoids due to increased pressure on the pelvic veins. Engaging in gentle exercises like pelvic tilts, walking, and prenatal yoga can improve circulation, reduce pressure, and lower the risk of developing piles during pregnancy. 

Haemorrhoid Treatment Options at Chirag Hospital 

Topical Ointments & Applications: 

Topical ointments provide relief from itching, pain, and swelling associated with the first stage of piles. These over-the-counter or prescribed creams help soothe the affected area, reducing discomfort and promoting healing by shrinking the haemorrhoids. 

Fibre Supplements: 

Fibre supplements can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. This reduces straining during bowel movements, preventing the worsening of piles and promoting a quicker recovery in the early stages. 

Internal Medicines: 

Internal medicines, such as flavonoids or anti-inflammatory drugs, can help reduce the inflammation and discomfort associated with piles. These medications work from within to ease symptoms, making them a valuable part of early-stage treatment. 

Sitz Bath: 

A sitz bath involves soaking the anal area in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day. This practice can relieve pain, reduce swelling, and promote healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area in the first stage of piles. 

Treated Medically: 

In the second stage, piles are typically managed with more intensive medical treatments, including stronger internal medications and topical treatments. These methods aim to control symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent the condition from worsening. 

IRC (Infrared Coagulation): 

Infrared coagulation (IRC) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat symptomatic second-stage piles. It uses infrared light to coagulate the blood vessels in the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink, offering a quick and effective treatment option. 

Diet & Yoga: 

Dietary changes, including increased fibre intake and regular yoga practice, can help manage and prevent the progression of piles in the second stage. Specific yoga poses improve blood circulation and reduce pressure on the rectal area, combined with a high-fibre diet, can significantly alleviate symptoms. 

Conclusion 

While haemorrhoids themselves do not directly cause constipation, they can create conditions that make constipation more likely. The pain and discomfort associated with haemorrhoids can lead to a reluctance to pass stools, which can cause constipation and, in some cases, gas. 

Addressing haemorrhoids through diet, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment can help prevent these complications and promote better digestive health. 

If you’re experiencing haemorrhoids and the associated symptoms of constipation and gas, consider seeking professional advice and treatment to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life. 

If you’re experiencing the discomfort of piles, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Contact Chirag Hospital today to schedule a consultation with our expert team. We offer personalised treatment plans, including advanced options like Infrared Coagulation, to help you find relief and get back to your everyday life. 

Take the first step towards a pain-free future—reach out to Chirag Hospital now! 

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Chirag Global Hospitals