Concept and Management of Haemorrhoids (Bawaseer) in Unani System of Medicine

Abstract

Haemorrhoids are one of the most prevalent diseases with significant impact on quality of life. Haemorrhoids commonly known as piles are defined as swollen, inflammed veins around the anus or the lower part of rectum. The most common symptom of haemorrhoids is rectal bleeding and discomfort before or after bowel movements. According to the Unani Physicians, the most common cause of the haemorrhoids is the accumulation of the abnormal melancholic humour and the persons with melancholic temperament are very prone to this disease. Management of haemorrhoids is diverse ranging from conservative, pharmacological to surgical interventions. In Unani System of Medicine, the line of treatment to follow in such diseases is the evacuation of abnormal excessive accumulated humour by concoctive and laxative therapy. In this review, the author will discuss the causes, classification, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and management of haemorrhoids in unani system of medicine.