What is Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a common condition that occurs when the veins in the lower part of the anus or rectum swell. There are two types: internal hemorrhoids, which develop inside the rectum and are usually painless; External hemorrhoids occur around the anus and can be painful. Causes of hemorrhoids include chronic constipation or diarrhea, prolonged sitting, pregnancy and obesity. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, itching or pain around the anus, and discomfort during defecation. Most hemorrhoids improve with home treatments such as a high-fiber diet, plenty of water, and hot baths. In severe cases, medical intervention may be required.
Hemorrhoids Treatment
Hemorrhoid treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the type of hemorrhoid. In mild cases, home treatments such as a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, regular exercise and hot water baths may be effective. Stool softeners and topical treatments (cream, ointment) may also be used to reduce strain during defecation. In more serious cases of hemorrhoids, minimally invasive procedures such as band ligation, sclerotherapy, laser or cryotherapy may be preferred. In the most severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. These interventions usually provide rapid relief but are recommended to be combined with appropriate lifestyle changes.
Hemorrhoids Symptoms
The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching around the anus, pain, discomfort, and bleeding during defecation. External hemorrhoids can be swollen and tender, sometimes felt as a lump outside the anus.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids (piles) can be caused by factors such as excessive straining during defecation, chronic constipation or diarrhea, obesity, pregnancy and sitting for long periods of time. Aging can also cause the veins to weaken, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoid Prevention
To reduce the risk of hemorrhoids, a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, regular exercise and avoiding sitting for long periods of time are recommended. Regular defecation habits and not having too much difficulty in going to the toilet are also important.
Hemorrhoids and Pregnancy
Increased intra-abdominal pressure and hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. It is important to seek medical advice for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemorrhoids
Common causes of hemorrhoids include constipation, sitting for long periods of time, overexertion (especially during defecation), pregnancy, and obesity. Aging may also increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are usually diagnosed through physical examination. The doctor checks for the presence of hemorrhoids by examining the anus and rectum area. In some cases, additional tests such as colonoscopy may be required.
Mild cases of hemorrhoids can be treated with a high-fiber diet, plenty of water, warm sitz baths, and over-the-counter (over-the-counter) ointments. For more severe cases, medical treatment or minimally invasive procedures may be required.
Hemorrhoids do not turn into cancer. However, symptoms of hemorrhoids can sometimes be confused with symptoms of colon or rectal cancer, so medical evaluation is important for diagnosis.
To reduce the risk of hemorrhoids, it may be beneficial to exercise regularly, follow a healthy and high-fiber diet, drink enough fluids, and avoid sitting for long periods of time. It is also important not to strain too much on the toilet.
