Hemorrhoids are a very common condition in both men and women, especially those over 50. Around 50% of adults will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lifetime.

Hemorrhoids are usually not serious and can be treated at home with over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories. However, if left untreated, hemorrhoids can cause discomfort and even lead to complications such as colon cancer. In this article, we will look at the link between untreated hemorrhoids and colon cancer.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They can also be called piles. The veins around the anus or rectum can become swollen and inflamed due to increased pressure, causing hemorrhoids to form.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching, bleeding, pain, and swelling. Some people may not have any symptoms at all; others may experience severe pain and discomfort.

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be classified into two types: internal and external.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum, where you cannot see or feel them. They are usually painless and can cause bleeding during bowel movements. The presence of blood in the stool or on the toilet paper can be a sign of internal hemorrhoids.

Internal hemorrhoids can become more severe if left untreated and may protrude outside the anus.

External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids occur outside the anus, near the opening. They can be felt as a lump or bulge and can cause pain, itching, and bleeding.

External hemorrhoids can become more severe if left untreated, leading to thrombosis (blood clots) and skin irritation.

Can untreated hemorrhoids cause colon cancer?

Although hemorrhoids are usually not serious, they can lead to complications if left untreated. In some rare cases, untreated hemorrhoids may cause colon cancer.

Hemorrhoids are not cancerous themselves, but chronic irritation and inflammation caused by untreated hemorrhoids can lead to changes in the cells of the colon, increasing the risk of colon cancer.

Link between Hemorrhoids and Colon Cancer

The link between hemorrhoids and colon cancer is not straightforward. Hemorrhoids are not a direct cause of colon cancer; however, they may indicate an increased risk of developing colon cancer due to chronic irritation and inflammation.

Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to changes in the cells of the colon, increasing the likelihood of cancer development.

Warning Signs of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often does not produce any symptoms initially. However, as the cancer grows, symptoms may appear. Some warning signs of colon cancer include:.

Bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool
Changes in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation)
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness

Prevention and Treatment of Hemorrhoids and Colon Cancer

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to undergo regular colon cancer screenings, especially if you have a family history of the disease. You can also reduce your risk of developing colon cancer by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Treatment for hemorrhoids involves relieving symptoms such as pain, itching, and swelling. This can be done with over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories. For severe cases, surgery may be required.

If you experience persistent bleeding, pain, or discomfort, it is best to seek medical attention from your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can usually be treated at home. If left untreated, hemorrhoids can lead to complications such as colon cancer.

Although hemorrhoids are not a direct cause of colon cancer, chronic inflammation and irritation due to untreated hemorrhoids can increase the likelihood of cancer development. Regular colon cancer screenings and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.