Haemorrhoids have been identified as a cause of seafarer repatriation across various studies, and the UK Club continue to see claims as a result of this illness. Haemorrhoids (or piles) are abnormally enlarged veins in the walls of the rectum and anus. Internal haemorrhoids are situated on the bowel side of the sphincter muscle and appear only when straining to empty the bowels.
External haemorrhoids are found in the region of the sphincter muscles and can normally be seen protruding from the anus as purple bulges. In many cases, haemorrhoids do not cause symptoms, and some people may not even realise they have them.
This advice covers the symptoms, causes, preventative measure and treatment for haemorrhoids.
