Do You Suffer from Hemorrhoids? Learn About the Main Treatments

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If you suffer from hemorrhoids, you know how uncomfortable this condition can be and how it can affect your quality of life.

At EndoBlog, we have prepared this article for those who have questions about how hemorrhoids are diagnosed and the treatment options available. Follow along.

What are hemorrhoids and how do they develop

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that affects many people at some point in their lives. They manifest when the veins around the anus or rectum become dilated, causing pain and bleeding.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external:

• Internal hemorrhoids are found above the anal sphincter and are more difficult to identify;
• External hemorrhoids are visible at the edge of the anus and resemble varicose veins or blood vessel clumps.

Causes

Some of the main causes are:

• Genetic predisposition. In this case, it is important to note that a person can develop hemorrhoids even if there are no cases in the family;
• Diet low in fiber and insufficient water intake;
• During pregnancy, when the fetus exerts pressure on the veins in the lower abdomen;
• Obesity, which, like pregnancy, causes pressure on the abdominal veins;
• Constipation;
• Sedentary lifestyle, which impairs food digestion and blood flow to the anus.

Grades of hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are classified into four grades according to the severity of the case:

Grade I hemorrhoids: do not prolapse outside the anus;

Grade II hemorrhoids: prolapse outside the anus during bowel movements but return spontaneously inside;

Grade III hemorrhoids: prolapse from the anus and need to be manually relocated inside;

Grade IV hemorrhoids: permanently prolapsed outside the anus and cannot be relocated inside.

Symptoms

Symptoms that indicate the presence of hemorrhoids:

• Presence of a noticeable lump in the anus;
• Bleeding after bowel movements, resulting from the rupture of anal veins;
• Unrelenting itching, caused by increased tension on nerve endings;
• Burning during or after bowel movements.

How is the diagnosis of hemorrhoids made?

To diagnose hemorrhoids, a physical examination is usually sufficient in the case of external hemorrhoids.

For internal ones, a rectal examination and anoscopy are necessary, performed during the proctological exam.

It is important to emphasize that, in elderly patients with rectal bleeding, even if hemorrhoids are identified, a colonoscopy is recommended to rule out other possible causes.

Hemorrhoids: all possible treatments

The treatment for hemorrhoids begins with diet, but in many cases, it is necessary to take medications and/or apply ointments to the area. Understand.

Eat more fiber and drink more water

One of the main recommendations for treating hemorrhoids is to maintain a diet rich in fiber and drink plenty of water.

Consuming whole foods, leafy vegetables, and fruits with skin at every meal helps to soften stools and facilitate evacuation, relieving discomfort.

In addition, it is important to drink at least 2 liters of water daily, aiming for better fiber absorption and proper intestinal function.

Use hemorrhoid cream

Hemorrhoid creams are a treatment option available to relieve symptoms of pain and discomfort caused by inflammation and/or dilation of the veins around the anus/rectum.

However, it is important to highlight that these creams should only be used under medical supervision.

Add pain medications

There are different types of medications to treat hemorrhoids: analgesics and medications to reduce swelling and bleeding.

Band ligation for hemorrhoids

During the proctological exam, band ligation can be performed for the hemorrhoids to sclerose, and other sessions may be necessary to resolve the problem.

Surgery for hemorrhoids

Surgery for hemorrhoids is a treatment generally reserved for more severe cases, such as when the hemorrhoid undergoes thrombosis or ruptures.

We emphasize that, after surgery, it is important to continue following a diet rich in fiber and avoid straining during bowel movements, to prevent the appearance of new hemorrhoids.

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