Are Acid Reflux And Haemorrhoids Related?

Nov 17, 2012 Acid Reflux

Acid reflux and haemorrhoids are conditions that occur in the digestive system. Acid reflux is caused by Stomach acid escaping from the stomach to the throat. Haemorrhoids are caused by swollen veins in the anus. Acid reflux is also known as indigestion while haemorrhoids are also known as piles.  You can have both conditions at the same time but it doesn't necessarily mean that they are related. The symptoms of both conditions are very different and require different treatments.   Haemorrhoids are usually treated with over the counter medication while acid reflux may need prescription drugs.  You may need to have surgery if either condition is chronic and causing a lot of discomfort.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are caused by pressure on your back passage which makes your veins swell to form grape-like growths.  Sometimes you can feel your piles because they can be found on the outside of your rectum.  Sometimes the only way you know you have them is when you get unexpected bleeding from your anus this is because they are hiding inside. As well as feeling lumps and experiencing bleeding you may also encounter irritation and leaking pooh. The most common causes of haemorrhoids are; pregnancy, being overweight, getting older, runs in the family, lifting heavy objects, coughing and constipation. Piles are a very recognisable condition.  Symptoms look serious but are nothing to get alarmed about. They often go after a few days  There is no specific treatment for piles expect for; increasing the amount of fibre you, drinking more water, don't delay going to the toilet and exercise regularly.  On most occasions, the haemorrhoids will go away by themselves without any further treatment. You must consult your doctor if your symptoms persist.  Surgical treatment that involves banding the haemorrhoid is used as a last resort.  The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic. (Source: NHS Choices)

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is caused by stomach acid returning to the mouth because the band of muscle between the stomach and oesophagus is too weak.  You may feel a burning sensation in your chest, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, feel sick and have pungent breath.  You can treat Heartburn with over the counter indigestion remedies. If these don't work you will have to have prescription medications that are proton pump inhibitors.  These work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.  Other ways that you can reduce acid include; eating smaller portions, don't lie down immediately after meals, avoid foods like chocolate, curries and alcohol. You may need to have an internal examination if symptoms persist. If you don't get it treated you may get ulcers, have difficulty swallowing, changes in your cells causing Barrett's oesophagus and in rare cases cancer.  You must visit your doctor if acid reflux becomes chronic otherwise you may end up very ill. (Source: NHS Choices)

Relationship Between The Two Conditions

The only obvious relationship between acid reflux and haemorrhoids is the fact they are both parts of the digestive system.  You may get piles if you are sick a lot with acid reflux otherwise neither has any impact on the other.  If you are concerned by either condition make an appointment to see your doctor who will suggest the most appropriate treatment. To review or purchase treatment for acid reflux click here.