Haemorrhoids

I84.0-9

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Varicose veins of the ano-rectal area.
Is usually accompanied by a history of constipation.
In older patients consider a diagnosis of underlying carcinoma.

GENERAL MEASURES

• High-fibre diet.
• Counsel against chronic use of laxatives.
• Avoid straining at stool.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Symptomatic treatment for painful haemorrhoids:

• Bismuth subgallate compound, ointment, topical, applied 2–4 times daily

OR

Bismuth subgallate compound suppositories, insert one into the rectum 3 times daily.

OR

Lidocaine 2%, cream, topical, applied before and after each bowel action.

Constipation

See: Constipation.

REFERRAL

• For surgical intervention if necessary:
  • if the haemorrhoid cannot be reduced
  • if the haemorrhoid is thrombosed
  • poor response to conservative treatment
• Children.
• Persistent anal bleeding.