Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes, and Modern Treatments

Hemorrhoids (hemorrhoidal disease) are characterized by swelling and inflammation of the rectal veins.

Hemorrhoids can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (around the anus). Both types may cause pain, itching, bleeding, and physical discomfort.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

• Hemorrhoids can develop on their own or together with other health conditions. Main causes include:
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea — irregular bowel movements are a key factor.
• Pregnancy and childbirth — increased pressure in the pelvic veins and hormonal changes raise the risk.
• Poor diet — low fluid and fiber intake contributes to the condition.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Overweight — adds pressure on the rectal area.
• Heavy lifting — frequent weight training increases intra-abdominal pressure.
• Rough anal sex — may irritate and inflame the area.
• Genetic predisposition.
• Age — natural aging weakens connective tissues, increasing risk.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

• Bleeding during or after bowel movements (often painless, seen on toilet paper).
• External lumps can be felt, often bluish or purple due to swelling.
• Itching and irritation around the anus.
• Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying after defecation.
• Burning and discomfort during long sitting.

Risk Groups

• People with sedentary lifestyle.
• Pregnant women.
• Elderly.
• People with chronic constipation or diarrhea.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is performed by a proctologist with an external exam and a digital rectal exam.

Hemorrhoid Treatment

• Treatment depends on severity:
• Early stage: ointments, suppositories, sitz baths, medications.
• Advanced stage: minimally invasive and surgical procedures:
• Rubber band ligation
• Sclerotherapy
• Infrared coagulation
• Hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal)

Possible Complications

• Anemia due to chronic blood loss.
• Infections (abscess, sepsis).

Diet for Prevention

Best foods:

• Legumes (beans, lentils, peas)
• Whole grains (buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice, oats)
• Vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, radish, sweet potato, beetroot, carrot, bell pepper, celery, cucumber)
• Fruits (pear, apple, blueberry, banana)