Hemorrhoid

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Several factors lead to the development of hemorrhoids:

• Straining During Bowel Movements: Often due to constipation.
• Pregnancy: Increased pressure on veins during pregnancy can lead to hemorrhoids.
• Sitting for Long Periods: Especially on the toilet, adds stress to the anal area.
• Low-Fiber Diet: Inadequate fiber intake causes harder stools and difficulty during defecation.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the abdomen.
• Chronic Diarrhea or Constipation: Both can irritate anal veins and lead to straining.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Symptoms vary depending on the type of hemorrhoid:

Internal Hemorrhoids:

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements.
• Blood on the stool, toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl.
• A feeling of fullness or discomfort in the rectum.

External Hemorrhoids:

• Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting.
• Swelling or a lump near the anus.
• Itching or irritation around the anal area.

Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids

Diagnosis may include:

• Physical Examination: Visual inspection for external hemorrhoids.
• Digital Rectal Exam: To assess internal hemorrhoids.
• Rectoscopy or Anoscopy: Tools used to examine the rectum and anal canal in detail.

Treatment Options

Treatment is based on the type and severity of the hemorrhoid:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Increase dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to soften the stool.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
• Avoid prolonged sitting or straining during bowel movements.

Home Remedies:

• Warm sitz baths to relieve pain and swelling.
• Topical creams or ointments containing soothing ingredients like hydrocortisone.

Medical Procedures:

• Rubber Band Ligation: Cutting off blood flow by placing a band at the base of the internal hemorrhoid.
• Sclerotherapy: Injection of a sclerosing agent to shrink the hemorrhoid.
• Laser Treatment: Uses heat to eliminate the hemorrhoid.
• THD (Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization): Tying off hemorrhoidal arteries under Doppler guidance.
• Surgery: In severe cases, hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy may be performed.

Prevention of Hemorrhoids

Simple preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk:

• Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water.
• Exercise regularly to improve bowel function.
• Avoid straining and prolonged sitting on the toilet.
• Respond promptly to the urge to defecate; delaying may worsen constipation.

Hemorrhoids can be a source of discomfort and concern, but with the right lifestyle, treatment, and preventive strategies, they can be effectively managed and symptoms significantly reduced.