Hemorrhoids: how to prevent them and remedies

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. A common and often embarrassing condition that affects both men and women. These veins can swell and become irritated, causing a range of uncomfortable and painful symptoms, as well as embarrassing ones. From a scientific standpoint, hemorrhoids are also known as almoranas.

Types of hemorrhoids

There are two main types of hemorrhoids that people are affected by. Internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and often cause no pain. Common symptoms include bleeding during bowel movements and anal itching. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are located under the skin around the anus and can be painful. In fact, they can cause swelling, pain and itching. People who have them may also feel discomfort when sitting, especially for a long time.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hemorrhoids can range from mild to severe.

• Bright red blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after a bowel movement.
• Itching or irritation around the anus.
• Pain during bowel movements.
• Swelling or painful lumps around the anus.
• A feeling of incomplete emptying, or of emptiness in the anus, after a bowel movement.

Treatments and remedies

There are several treatment options for hemorrhoids, depending on how severe the symptoms are. The foundation is a change in lifestyle. It is essential to make changes to the diet, increasing fiber and fluids. These elements can relieve constipation and reduce the risk of developing them. Avoiding holding back a bowel movement is another valuable help.

Medications for hemorrhoids

There are over-the-counter medications such as creams, ointments or suppositories containing hydrocortisone or other substances. They are meant to reduce itching and inflammation and improve quality of life. In fact, the sensations and symptoms have a heavy impact on managing daily life.

When to intervene

In some cases, outpatient treatment may be necessary. These are minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids or sclerotherapy. The latter technique is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and superficial varices. It involves injecting a chemical solution (a sclerosing agent) directly into the dilated or varicose veins. The sclerosing agent irritates the walls of the veins, causing the veins to close up gradually over time. As a result, blood can no longer pool in the treated veins, and the varicose veins tend to disappear.

Both procedures, rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy, reduce blood flow to the swollen hemorrhoids. In more severe or persistent situations, however, the specialist – the proctologist – may recommend surgery to remove the hemorrhoids.

Prevention

Preventing hemorrhoids may be possible with some measures that are effective.

• Keep a diet rich in fiber and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
• Exercise regularly to improve blood circulation.
• Avoid holding back a bowel movement.
• Avoid straining during bowel movements.
• Use moist wipes instead of rough toilet paper.

Statistics

Hemorrhoids are common. Most people who are affected develop them in adulthood, often between the ages of 45 and 65. Fortunately, most cases can be treated successfully through lifestyle changes and medications.