Are Warts, Diverticulitis and Cyst Related to Hemorrhoids?
Researchers suspect that hemorrhoids do not only result from chronic constipation or straining during bowel movement. Some believe that it is also related to other colonic and anorectal conditions such as warts, diverticulitis, and cyst formation. All three share similar symptoms such as the formation of an anal mass that can either be benign or cancerous.
Diverticulitis
Diverticular disease is a condition wherein weak portions of the colonic wall stretch and form pouches (diverticula). When these pouches become blocked and bacteria accumulate in the area, it becomes infected and inflamed - a complication called diverticulitis. People with this condition experience pain in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen, alternating constipation and diarrhea, loss of appetite, and fever.
The occurrence of this disorder is usually associated with low levels of dietary fiber and high levels of refined carbohydrates. In such conditions, stools become less bulky and, in consequence, are unable to retain a sufficient amount of water. This may delay gastrointestinal transit time, resulting in stagnation of the processed foodstuff in the colon for an extended period of time. Patients who experience this are more likely to strain themselves during defecation. Constantly exerting prolonged pressure on the anus may cause its veins to become dilated and result in hemorrhoids.
Warts
Warts, in general, appear as irregular bumps on the skin that resemble a cauliflower. They are caused by a virus (most commonly HPV) that has entered an open wound or any break in the skin. Although they are mainly considered harmless, these malformations are contagious and can be transmitted through physical contact with the affected area. Normally, these are self-limiting and disappear on their own without the need for medical intervention.
In some cases, these irregularities in the skin can signify the presence of a viral infection. If found in the genital area, warts can indicate the presence of an STD (sexually transmitted disease). Their sudden appearance is also used as a parameter in assessing the presence of cancer. Anal warts (condyloma acuminata) affect the area around the anus and, if not removed, can grow into a larger mass and multiply. In more severe cases, mucopurulent discharges and blood can be found. This ever-increasing mass may obstruct blood flow and is believed to increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Cyst Formation
A cyst is made of abnormally behaving cells that have clumped together to form a sac. Some of these are filled with any of the following: air, semi-solid substances, or fluids. These are not to be confused with an abscess, which is a reddish, painful, pus-filled swelling on the skin.
Cysts can grow just about anywhere in the body and are normally painless. However, if left untreated, they may continue to grow in size and can hinder the normal process of adjacent structures.