Hemorrhoids are a health problem that many people have, but are a little embarrassed to talk about in society. Maybe you have blood when you go to the toilet, or you feel pain or itching in that area. These can be symptoms of hemorrhoids. So let's talk about this today, as if we were talking to a friend, without hiding anything.
What exactly are hemorrhoids?
Simply put, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of your rectum and around your anus. Think of them as varicose veins, which are sometimes called varicose veins in our legs. When the walls of these veins stretch and become thin, they swell and bulge, causing discomfort. This condition can be aggravated, especially when straining to go to the bathroom.
Hemorrhoids are not a serious condition, but the discomfort they cause can be unbearable. In most cases, they resolve on their own within a few days. And there are effective treatments for them.
What are the main types of hemorrhoids?
Let's break down hemorrhoids into several main types. Once you understand this, it's easier to figure out which type you have.
| Hemorrhoid Type | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Internal Hemorrhoids | These are located inside the anus. So we can't see them or feel them. Since there are few pain-sensing nerves in that area, they usually don't hurt. However, there may be bleeding when you go to the toilet. |
| External Hemorrhoids | These are located under the skin around the anus. They can be painful because there are many pain-sensing nerves in this area. |
| Prolapsed Hemorrhoids | This is when an internal hemorrhoid that was inside has pulled out of the anus. Sometimes these will go back in on their own. If not, you can gently push them back in with your finger. |
| Thrombosed Hemorrhoids | When a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid, it turns a purplish-blue color. This condition is very painful. |
The difference between hemorrhoids and an anal fissure
Many people confuse the two. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins. But an anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the skin of the anus. Both conditions can cause constipation and straining to go to the toilet. But the treatments for the two are different. That's why it's important to get the right diagnosis.
Why do we get hemorrhoids? (Causes)
When there is too much pressure on the lower part of the rectum, the blood vessels there are affected and begin to swell. There are several main reasons for this pressure.
- Straining while going to the toilet: Many people strain hard when they are constipated. This is a major cause.
- Weight lifting : This pressure can also occur during physically strenuous activities, such as lifting heavy objects.
- Obesity : Excess weight puts pressure on the veins in the rectum.
- Pregnancy : The risk of hemorrhoids increases during pregnancy due to the weight of the baby and hormonal changes .
- Low- fiber diet: Constipation is more likely to occur when you eat a diet low in fiber.
- Staying in the same position for too long: Especially if you have a sedentary job, blood can pool in the anal area and increase pressure.
- Prolonged diarrhea: Both persistent diarrhea and constipation can cause hemorrhoids.
Doctor, how do you diagnose this?
If you suspect you have hemorrhoids, the best thing to do is see a doctor . He or she will ask you about your symptoms and, if necessary, run some tests. There is no reason to be embarrassed about this, as it is a very common condition.
1. Physical Exam: The doctor will examine your anus and the surrounding area to check for any lumps, swelling, or other problems.
2. Digital Rectal Exam: Wearing gloves, applying a lubricant, a finger is inserted into the rectum to check for the condition of the muscles inside, lumps, or pain.
Sometimes, further tests may be needed to diagnose internal hemorrhoids or to rule out another medical condition.
- Anoscopy: Examination of the inside of the rectum using a short plastic tube (anoscope).
- Colonoscopy: An examination of the entire large intestine using a long, flexible, camera-equipped tube (colonoscope). This can also check for other serious conditions.
What are the treatments for hemorrhoids?
The good news is that most hemorrhoid symptoms can be cured within a week or two with simple treatments.
Things you can do at home
- Eat foods rich in fiber: Include foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in your diet. These soften stools and help them pass more easily.
- Drink plenty of water: It is very important to drink at least 2-3 liters of water a day.
- Sitz Bath: This is a very relaxing thing to do. Put some warm water (not hot enough to burn the skin) in a basin and sit in it for about 15-20 minutes. It is better if you can do it two or three times a day.
- Ice Packs: Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and leave them on for a few minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
- Avoid straining: Don't stay in the toilet for too long. Go only when you feel the need to defecate, and do so without straining.
Medicines that can be taken on medical advice
There are creams, pills, or suppositories that your doctor may prescribe to temporarily reduce pain, itching, and swelling.
Important: Avoid using ointments containing steroids, such as hydrocortisone, for longer than a week without your doctor's advice.
Surgery and other methods
If the hemorrhoids are large, or if other treatments do not help, your doctor may suggest minor surgery or other procedures to remove or shrink them.
- Rubber band ligation
- Shrinkage by injection
- Surgical removal (Hemorrhoidectomy)
How can you prevent hemorrhoids?
Prevention is always better than cure. So if you incorporate these simple habits into your life, you can stay away from hemorrhoids.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber.
- Drink enough water daily.
- Exercise regularly. Even just walking for 30 minutes a day is enough.
- When you need to go to the bathroom, don't delay.
- Don't spend too much time in the bathroom reading books, newspapers, or using your phone.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- When going to the toilet, keep your feet on a small stool. This will change the position of the rectum and make it easier to pass stool.
Definitely see a doctor: If the pain doesn't subside within a week with home treatments, or if you continue to bleed, definitely see a doctor. These symptoms can be a sign of another serious condition. So don't take it lightly.
Take-Home Message
- Hemorrhoids are a very common and usually not serious health condition. There is no need to be ashamed of it.
- This condition can be controlled and prevented with simple lifestyle changes (high-fiber diet, water, exercise).
- It is very important to avoid straining when going to the bathroom.
- If you have rectal bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms do not improve within a week, see your doctor immediately.
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