Hemorrhoids or haemorrhoids are a common condition that affects millions of people all over the world. This condition occurs when the veins around the anus or lower rectum become inflamed or swollen.

Hemorrhoids can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort. Although hemorrhoids are usually not a serious condition, they can lead to complications in some cases. Here, we will discuss everything you need to know about hemorrhoid complications.

What Are Hemorrhoid Complications?

Complications of hemorrhoids occur when the condition becomes more severe. Hemorrhoids can become severe when they are left untreated, and the following are some of the complications that may arise:.

1. Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

One of the most common complications of hemorrhoids is thrombosis. Thrombosis occurs when blood clots form inside the hemorrhoid. When this happens, the hemorrhoid becomes extremely painful, swollen, and inflamed. Bleeding may also occur in some cases.

Thrombosed hemorrhoids may need to be treated through surgery, such as hemorrhoidectomy or rubber band ligation.

2. Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Hemorrhoids can cause anemia due to bleeding.

Prolonged bleeding from hemorrhoids can lead to chronic anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. If you experience anemia due to hemorrhoids, you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Infection

Infection is another complication that can arise from hemorrhoids. When the veins around the anus become inflamed or swollen, they can also become infected. Symptoms of an infected hemorrhoid include fever, pain, swelling, and discharge.

Treatment for infected hemorrhoids may include antibiotics, sitz baths, and other medications.

4. Fistula Formation

Fistula formation is a rare complication that can occur due to severe hemorrhoids. Fistulas are abnormal connections that form between two body parts or organs.

When fistulas form due to hemorrhoids, they usually connect the rectum or anus to the skin around the anus. Symptoms of fistula formation include pain, swelling, and discharge. Treatment for fistula formation includes surgery.

5. Strangulated Hemorrhoids

Strangulated hemorrhoids occur when the blood supply to the hemorrhoid is cut off, causing severe pain and discomfort. Strangulated hemorrhoids may occur due to blood clots or other conditions that cause the hemorrhoid to become trapped.

Treatment for strangulated hemorrhoids may include surgery.

6. Anorectal Abscesses

Anorectal abscesses are another complication that can occur due to hemorrhoids. Anorectal abscesses are painful pus-filled infections that occur in the anus or rectum. Symptoms of anorectal abscesses include pain, swelling, fever, and discharge.

Treatment for anorectal abscesses includes antibiotics and surgery.

7. Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a rare but serious complication that can occur due to severe hemorrhoids. Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum protrudes through the anus. Symptoms of rectal prolapse include pain, swelling, and discharge.

Treatment for rectal prolapse may include surgery.