What are haemorrhoids also known as?
piles
Haemorrhoids affect around 4% of adults.
What condition may tenesmus be linked to?
Tenesmus is a feeling of incomplete defecation.
What are some factors that can increase the likelihood of developing haemorrhoids?
These factors can lead to constipation, which is a risk for haemorrhoids.
How does the visceral nerve supply sense changes compared to somatic sensation?
Not in the same way
This difference is more apparent near the junction of the rectum and the anus.
What sensation is associated with the rectum?
No somatic sensation
Inflammation in the rectum leads to discomfort and tenesmus, but not actual pain.
What sensation is associated with the anal skin?
Somatic sensation
This allows for the perception of pain in the anal region.
What is the pectinate line (or dentate line)?
A line that divides the upper two-thirds and lower third of the anal canal
It marks the transition between visceral and somatic innervation.
What are internal haemorrhoids characterized by?
Internal haemorrhoids are located higher in the anal canal and are less likely to cause pain compared to external haemorrhoids.
What are external haemorrhoids known as?
External piles
External haemorrhoids are located below the dentate line and are more likely to cause pain due to somatic sensation.
What do piles arise from?
The anal cushion
The anal cushion helps identify the state of stools (solid, liquid, or gas) during defecation.
What is the role of anal cushions?
Anal cushions are soft, flexible, and adaptable structures that play a significant role in maintaining continence.
What are anal cushions made up of?
Lots of blood vessels
These blood vessels contribute to the ability to keep solids and liquids in and release gas.
What are sinusoids in the context of anal cushions?
Sinusoids are larger in the anal cushions and contribute to the formation of haemorrhoids.
True or false: Haemorrhoids are considered varicose veins in the anus.
TRUE
Haemorrhoids can be classified as either external or internal, both stemming from the anal cushions.
What is the involuntary anal sphincter?
Involuntary muscle with a resting tone
Controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
What type of muscle is the voluntary anal sphincter?
Striated voluntary muscle
It is controlled by the visceral nerve supply and somatic nerve supply.
True or false: The voluntary anal sphincter requires concentration to keep it tight.
FALSE
You do it voluntarily, not requiring thought.
How is the involuntary anal sphincter controlled?
By the autonomic nervous system
It maintains a resting tone.
How is the voluntary anal sphincter controlled?
By the visceral nerve supply and somatic nerve supply
It does not require conscious thought to maintain tension.
What are the two types of haemorrhoids?
Internal haemorrhoids arise from above the dentate line and are usually painless, while external haemorrhoids tend to be painful and can itch.
What are the common symptoms of external haemorrhoids?
External haemorrhoids can present with various symptoms, including pain and bleeding.
List the problems that can occur with haemorrhoids.
These problems can significantly affect the quality of life for individuals with haemorrhoids.
What is a common treatment for symptomatic haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoid cream
This cream acts as a local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory, relieving symptoms such as itching.