Hemorrhoids are a common problem that can cause significant discomfort. In this article, we will look at the different methods of treating hemorrhoids.

 

1. How are hemorrhoids treated with lifestyle changes?

 

The first and most important step in the treatment of hemorrhoids is a change in lifestyle. This includes adapting daily habits and diet, which can relieve symptoms and prevent the recurrence of hemorrhoids.

 

Increased fiber intake

 

One of the most important changes is increasing fiber intake. Fiber helps soften stools, making it easier for them to pass through the intestines and reduce pressure on the hemorrhoids. Sources of fiber include fruits such as apples and pears, vegetables such as broccoli and carrots, and whole grains such as oatmeal and brown rice. The recommended daily intake of fiber for adults is between 25 and 30 grams.

 

Keeping well hydrated

 

Keeping well hydrated

 

Staying well hydrated is essential to prevent constipation and facilitate bowel movements. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water (about 2 liters) a day. Water aids digestion and keeps stools soft, which reduces pressure on hemorrhoids and prevents irritation.

 

Regular physical activity

 

Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation and improve circulation in the pelvic area, which is important for vein health. Exercise such as walking and swimming can be especially helpful. It is important to avoid heavy strength training, which can increase the pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum.

 

Maintaining a healthy weight

 

Excess weight can increase pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, which can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce this risk.

 

Avoiding prolonged sitting

 

Prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces, can increase pressure on the anus and rectum, which can worsen hemorrhoid symptoms. If you work at a desk, use an ergonomic chair and take regular breaks to move.

 

2. How to treat hemorrhoids with home remedies

 

Home remedies can be effective in relieving the symptoms of hemorrhoids and provide temporary relief while more serious treatment measures are taken.

 

They are readily available and can be administered without the need for specialized medical intervention.

  • Sitz baths - Sitz baths are immersion in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This procedure can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Warm water improves blood circulation and speeds up the healing process. It is important that the water is not too hot, so as not to cause additional irritation;
  • Cold compresses - Applying cold compresses to the affected area can reduce swelling and pain. Ice packs or compresses applied for 10-15 minutes can relieve itching and inflammation. Always use a towel or other form of protection between the ice and the skin to avoid frostbite;
  • Proper hygiene - Keeping the anal area clean and dry is essential to prevent irritation and infection. Using gentle, unscented wet wipes instead of toilet paper can help reduce irritation. After each bowel movement, it is important to rinse the area with water and dry well;
  • Pelvic floor exercises - Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can improve circulation and strengthen the muscles around the anus. This can help prevent hemorrhoids from getting worse and relieve symptoms. They are especially useful for women after childbirth or for people with chronic constipation.

 

3. Medicines

 

Medications play an important role in relieving hemorrhoid symptoms when lifestyle changes and home remedies are not enough. These medications can be purchased without a prescription or prescribed by a doctor and come in a variety of forms, including creams, ointments, suppositories, and oral medications.

 

Suppositories (suppositories)

 

Suppositories

 

Suppositories are solid preparations that are inserted into the anus and dissolve, releasing medicinal substances directly into the affected area. They are especially effective for internal hemorrhoids. Suppositories usually contain the same active ingredients as creams and ointments, but have the advantage of acting directly on internal hemorrhoids.

 

Oral pain relievers

Oral pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used to relieve pain and inflammation. They are useful when the discomfort is more general and cannot be relieved by topical means alone.

 

Phlebotonics

Phlebotonics are a class of medications that improve venous wall tone and are used to treat chronic venous insufficiency and hemorrhoids. They include ingredients such as diosmin and hesperidin, which improve microcirculation and reduce inflammation. Phlebotonics can be taken in tablet form and are particularly effective for the long-term treatment of hemorrhoids.

 

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that may be prescribed for the short-term treatment of severely inflamed hemorrhoids. They should be used with caution as prolonged use can cause side effects such as thinning of the skin.

 

Laxatives

Laxatives may be prescribed if constipation is a major factor in the development of hemorrhoids. They help soften the stool and make it easier to pass stools, which reduces pressure on the hemorrhoids and prevents irritation.

 

4. Minimally invasive procedures

 

When conservative methods and medications fail to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, minimally invasive procedures can offer an effective solution. These procedures are less painful and have a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery.

 

  • Rubber band ligation: Rubber band ligation is one of the most commonly used minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids. The procedure involves placing small rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid. This cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, which then dries up and falls off within a few days.
  • Sclerotherapy: In this procedure, a chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and gradually be absorbed by the body.
  • Infrared coagulation: Infrared coagulation uses infrared light to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid. The light is directed to the base of the hemorrhoid, causing scar tissue to form and the hemorrhoid to shrink.
  • Laser therapy: Laser therapy is a modern method of treating hemorrhoids that uses laser beams to coagulate the hemorrhoidal tissues. The laser energy causes the water in the hemorrhoid tissues to evaporate, causing them to shrink and disappear. Laser therapy is fast, effective and has minimal side effects.
  • Doppler ultrasound coagulation: Doppler ultrasound coagulation is a procedure that uses Doppler ultrasound to locate the hemorrhoidal arteries. The arteries are then coagulated using heat, which reduces the blood supply to the hemorrhoids and causes them to shrink. This procedure is especially effective for treating larger hemorrhoids.
  • Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is a method in which hemorrhoids are treated with extremely low temperatures. Freezing hemorrhoidal tissues leads to their necrosis and subsequent shedding. Cryotherapy is an effective method, but may cause more discomfort during the recovery period than other minimally invasive procedures.

 

5. Surgical methods

 

In cases where the hemorrhoids are severe or when other methods of treatment fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical methods are more invasive, but also more effective for long-term relief.

 

Hemorrhoidectomy

 

Hemorrhoidectomy is the traditional surgical method for removing hemorrhoids. The procedure involves removing excess tissue that causes bleeding and pain. It is the most effective method for treating severe hemorrhoids, especially external hemorrhoids or large internal hemorrhoids. Although the recovery period can be painful, hemorrhoidectomy offers long-term relief.

 

Stapling

 

Stapling is a less invasive method compared to hemorrhoidectomy. The procedure involves using a special tool that removes some of the hemorrhoidal tissue while stitching up the remaining tissue. Stapling cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink and fall off. This procedure is less painful and has a shorter recovery period than hemorrhoidectomy, but there may be a higher risk of hemorrhoids recurring.

 

Hemorrhoidopexy with Doppler ultrasound guidance

 

This procedure uses Doppler ultrasound to precisely locate the hemorrhoidal arteries. Once the arteries are identified, they are sutured to cut off the blood supply to the hemorrhoids. This method is less invasive and results in less pain and shorter recovery time. Doppler-guided hemorrhoidopexy is effective for the treatment of large internal hemorrhoids and has good long-term results.

 

Laser hemorrhoidectomy

 

Laser hemorrhoidectomy

 

Laser hemorrhoidectomy is a modern surgical technique that uses laser energy to remove hemorrhoids. The laser induces coagulation of the blood vessels and reduces the size of the hemorrhoids. Advantages of laser hemorrhoidectomy include less bleeding, less pain, and faster recovery. This procedure is suitable for patients with smaller hemorrhoids or those who prefer less invasive methods.

 

Thrombectomy

 

Thrombectomy is a procedure used to treat external hemorrhoids that have thrombosed, ie. have formed a blood clot. The procedure involves a small incision and removal of the clot, resulting in rapid pain relief and reduction in swelling. Thrombectomy is a quick procedure that is usually performed under local anesthesia.

 

Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy

 

A Ferguson hemorrhoidectomy is similar to a traditional hemorrhoidectomy, but involves suturing the wounds after removing the hemorrhoids. This reduces the risk of bleeding and infection and can speed up the recovery process. The procedure is particularly effective for the treatment of combined external and internal hemorrhoids.

 

These surgical methods offer a reliable solution for severe cases of hemorrhoids and provide long-term relief. The choice of an appropriate method depends on the specific case and requires consultation with a qualified surgeon.

 

6. How to prevent the recurrence of hemorrhoids

 

After successful treatment of hemorrhoids, it is important to take measures to prevent their recurrence. This can be achieved through lifestyle changes and following certain preventive strategies.

 

  • Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes is recommended. Incorporating foods such as oatmeal, flaxseed, and almonds can also be helpful;
  • Drinking enough water: what we have already mentioned, try to drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Regular physical activity:
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting;
  • Avoiding straining to defecate: We recommend going to the toilet at the first feeling of need to avoid stool retention and hardening. Using a footstool during bowel movements can help maintain a proper position that facilitates the passage of stool without undue strain.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight.

 

Conclusion

 

Hemorrhoids are a common and unpleasant problem that can cause significant discomfort. Hemorrhoid treatment includes a variety of approaches, from lifestyle changes and home remedies to medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical methods.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, adequate water intake, regular physical activity, and proper hygiene is key to preventing hemorrhoids from recurring.

Consultation with a doctor is important to choose the most appropriate treatment method and to ensure long-term relief and comfort.

 

SOURCES:

1. Healthline: Hemorrhoids Home Remedies and OTC Treatment (24.05.2024)
2. WebMD: Why Take a Sitz Bath? (24.05.2024)
3. WebMD: Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment (25.05.2024)