Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus. While often manageable with lifestyle changes, leaving haemorrhoids untreated can lead to several complications.
1. Worsening Symptoms
- Increased Bleeding: Untreated haemorrhoids can continue to bleed, potentially leading to anaemia, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions.
- Severe Pain and Discomfort: The inflammation and swelling can worsen, causing significant pain and discomfort, making daily activities challenging.
- Thrombosis: Blood clots can form within the haemorrhoids, causing intense pain, swelling, and increased discomfort.
- Prolapse: Internal haemorrhoids can protrude through the anus (prolapse), becoming increasingly difficult to push back in. This can cause significant discomfort, itching, and irritation.
2. Skin Tags
Prolonged irritation from haemorrhoids can lead to the development of skin tags, small, painless growths of extra skin around the anus.
3. Infection
In rare cases, untreated haemorrhoids can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and discharge.
4. Anal Fissures
The irritation and inflammation caused by haemorrhoids can increase the risk of developing anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus. Anal fissures can cause significant pain, especially during bowel movements.
5. Psychological Impact
The discomfort and social embarrassment associated with haemorrhoids can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
It's crucial to remember that these are potential complications, and not everyone with haemorrhoids will experience them. However, seeking medical attention from a colorectal surgeon for persistent or severe symptoms is essential.
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