Hemorrhoids in babies are rare, and you may look for symptoms to identify this since babies cannot communicate what is going on in their bodies. Swollen lumps around the anus, crying during bowel movement, and bleeding may indicate hemorrhoids. Many babies with hemorrhoids may have a history of constipation and dry stools. Medical and home remedies may help to relieve pain. You may also try to avoid constipation in babies by ensuring adequate feeding. Read on to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment for hemorrhoids in babies.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Commonly known as piles, this is a condition where the tissues and blood vessels along the anal opening become swollen (1). The term ’hemorrhoids’ is actually used for the soft tissue that lines the anus on the inside and slightly on the outside. Typically, hemorrhoids work as a cushion. But when they swell, they tend to protrude and cause pain and constant discomfort. The term ‘hemorrhoids’ is also used colloquially to refer to the inflamed state of the tissue. Infants also have hemorrhoids tissue, which can swell sometimes.
What Causes Hemorrhoids In Babies?
The primary cause of hemorrhoids is repeated strain on the blood vessels and tissues of the rectal area (2). Frequent pressure on the blood vessels leads to inflammation and eventually piles. Here are a few reasons why a baby may strain the rectal tissue: Constipation and diarrhea are likely to be the two most common situations a baby may face. But how frequently can they develop hemorrhoids?
How Common Are Hemorrhoids In Babies?
Hemorrhoids are rare among babies and toddlers (3). A study on anorectal problems among children found an incidence of hemorrhoids at only 4.2%. The risk of piles becomes significant when the baby turns into a teen and a young adult. If your baby is constantly crying when being seated or rested on the bottom or while passing the stool, then it is good to check for the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids?
Parents will notice the following symptoms when a baby or a toddler has hemorrhoids: It is good to see a doctor soon when you spot blood in a baby’s diapers or stools.
How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?
Doctors can diagnose hemorrhoids in babies and toddlers by visual inspection of the anal region. If the hemorrhoids are internal and not discernible, then a physical exam may be needed. The doctor will gently palpate the area around the anus with their gloved fingers and check for any signs of internal hemorrhoid bleeding. Other diagnostic methods such as anoscopy and proctoscopy (using a probe to inspect anus and rectum respectively) are highly unlikely to be used for infants and toddlers. These methods may be used when the bleeding is from parts of the gastrointestinal tract other than the anus.
How Are Hemorrhoids Treated In Babies?
The hemorrhoids may be treated using medicines, home remedies, and lifestyle changes (4) (5): Curing the underlying cause of the problem should help in curing the hemorrhoids. That said, you can also try a few home care measures to prevent the condition and spare the baby from the pain.
How To Prevent Hemorrhoids?
The following three measures can help mitigate a baby and toddler’s chances of developing hemorrhoids:
