Did you know that nearly three out of four adults will have hemorrhoids from time to time? Although hemorrhoids can be unpleasant and painful, they are easily treated. However, it is wise to get early treatment, as the situation could worsen over time.

This medical condition is pronounced as “HEM-uh-roids”, also known as piles. It refers to swollen veins in your anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins.

They can develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).

Here are some of signs to look out for: itching or irritation in your anal region, pain or discomfort, swelling around your anus or bleeding.

However, these are not the only symptoms that may occur. You might notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet when you have internal hemorrhoids.

Sometimes when blood pools in an external hemorrhoid, it forms a clot (thrombus). This can result in severe pain, swelling and inflammation among others.

Fortunately, most people get relief with home treatments and lifestyle changes. However, it’s wise to seek treatment if you have bleeding during bowel movements or if you have hemorrhoids that don't improve after a week of home care.

The article was contributed by Dr G.C. George, Consultant General Surgeon at Pantai Hospital Ampang. To know more where and when to see Dr G.C. George at his clinic, click here.