Hemorrhoids: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
We’ve all heard of hemorrhoids, but do we really know what they are and how to prevent them? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of hemorrhoids, exploring their causes, symptoms, and treatment options. So, if you’ve ever wondered why these little cushions of veins can cause so much trouble, keep reading to find out more.
What are Hemorrhoids?
Contrary to popular belief, hemorrhoids are not some rare condition that only a few unlucky individuals have to deal with. In fact, everyone has hemorrhoids. They are simply cushions of veins located along the top and bottom of the anal canal. These veins help support the anal canal and prevent accidental leakage. Think of them as the unsung heroes of your body’s waste disposal system.
However, when these veins become engorged and the tissue holding them in place weakens, that’s when we start experiencing symptoms and consider them a problem. Symptoms of hemorrhoids can include itching, bleeding, a sense of fullness, an uncomfortable lump, inadvertent soiling, and pain.
Causes and Risk Factors
Decades ago, doctors believed that constipation and a low-fiber diet were the main culprits behind symptomatic hemorrhoids. However, recent studies have shown that the relationship between diet and hemorrhoids is more complex than previously thought. While a high-fiber diet is recommended as a treatment option, it doesn’t necessarily lower the risk of developing engorged hemorrhoids.
Instead, straining and hard stools seem to be more closely related to symptomatic hemorrhoids. Prolonged periods of sitting and pushing, such as when scrolling through social media on the toilet, can compromise the supportive tissue in our anal canals. Interestingly, even our pre-TikTok ancestors were not immune to this issue. A study from 1989 found that individuals with hemorrhoids spent more time reading on the toilet than those without hemorrhoids.
Prevention and Treatment Options
If you’re looking to avoid hemorrhoids or prevent them from recurring, there are several steps you can take. Here are some tips recommended by experts:
1. Increase your fiber intake: Fiber supplements like psyllium husk can significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhoidal bleeding. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to see how your body responds.
2. Use a bidet or wet wipes: Instead of using dry toilet paper, which can be irritating, opt for a bidet or wet wipes. These are gentler on the anal region and less likely to cause discomfort.
3. Try topical creams: Hydrocortisone creams, available at any pharmacy, can help relieve itching. However, it’s important not to use them for longer than one week, as they can weaken the delicate tissue around the anus.
4. Take sitz baths: A sitz bath is a simple and effective way to reduce inflammation and decrease pressure in the anal canal. You can purchase a portable bowl that fits on your toilet seat or simply sit in your bathtub for around 10 minutes.
When to Seek Medical Help
In most cases, swollen hemorrhoids will resolve on their own within a few days. However, if you experience excruciating pain or have a painful thrombosed hemorrhoid (filled with a blood clot), it’s important to seek medical attention. While these hemorrhoids do resolve on their own, a quick procedure can provide relief and speed up the healing process.
Understanding the Different Types of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can be classified as internal or external, depending on their location. External hemorrhoids are often more bothersome, especially when sitting, while internal hemorrhoids are usually painless but can bleed significantly. In some cases, internal hemorrhoids may prolapse, meaning they protrude from the anal canal during bowel movements and then retract on their own or with gentle manual assistance.
The Likelihood of Recurrence
Once you’ve experienced engorged hemorrhoids, there’s a chance they may come back. The likelihood of recurrence depends on various factors, including ongoing risk factors (such as prolonged sitting on the toilet) and the type of hemorrhoid. Research has shown that individuals who undergo surgery for thrombosed external hemorrhoids have a lower chance of recurrence compared to those who don’t.
Treatment Procedures
If your hemorrhoids aren’t improving with conservative measures, it may be time to consider a procedure. Many of the techniques used today have been around for centuries. For instance, rubber-band ligation, a simple outpatient procedure, is still widely used to treat prolapsed internal hemorrhoids. Other interventions, such as sclerotherapy and hemorrhoidectomy, may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While hemorrhoids are a common condition, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you experience rectal bleeding. They can perform a physical examination to ensure an accurate diagnosis
