How long can hemorrhoids last?

Hemorrhoids are a common health problem that affects millions of people around the world. They can cause significant discomfort and pain, and the duration of symptoms varies greatly from person to person. In this article, we will look in detail at how long hemorrhoids last and what factors affect their duration.

1. How long do hemorrhoids last?

The duration of hemorrhoids can vary greatly depending on many factors, including the type of hemorrhoids, the severity of the condition, and the treatment used. It is important to note that each person's body reacts differently and recovery time is strictly individual.

Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids often heal faster than external hemorrhoids. In mild cases, they may disappear within a few days to a week. In more severe cases, when internal hemorrhoids prolapse, treatment may take several weeks.

External hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids may take longer to heal, especially if blood clots form (thrombosed hemorrhoids). Usually, if left untreated, external hemorrhoids can heal within two to four weeks. If medical intervention is required, such as removing the clot, recovery time may be shortened.

2. What factors affect duration?

The duration of hemorrhoids can be affected by many factors. Understanding these factors is key to effective management and treatment of the condition.

The severity of the condition

The severity of hemorrhoids is one of the main factors in determining how long they will last. Mild cases of hemorrhoids, which involve minimal inflammation and bleeding, usually recover quickly with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes.

More severe cases involving significant inflammation, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, or thrombosed external hemorrhoids may require longer recovery time and more intensive treatment.

Diet and Hydration

Diet plays a critical role in managing hemorrhoids. A high-fiber diet helps soften stools and prevent constipation, which can reduce pressure on hemorrhoids and speeds up healing. Drinking enough water is also important, as hydration supports normal bowel function and prevents hard stools.

Physical activity

Regular physical activity is important for maintaining healthy circulation and preventing constipation, which can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids getting worse. A sedentary lifestyle can worsen the condition and prolong recovery time. Even light exercise such as walking can be helpful.

Treatment methods

The choice of treatment methods can also affect the duration of hemorrhoids. Medical procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and infrared coagulation can offer faster relief and a shorter recovery time than conservative methods.

Bad habits and stress

Bad habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and incorrect posture when sitting on the toilet can worsen hemorrhoids. Stress can also play a role, as it can cause tension and worsen symptoms.

Individual characteristics

Individual physiological characteristics can also affect the duration of hemorrhoids. Genetic predisposition, age and general health can determine how quickly the body will recover from hemorrhoids.

3. Treatment of hemorrhoids

Treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Various methods can be applied to relieve discomfort and speed up recovery.

These methods range from home remedies to medical procedures.

Non-prescription drugs

• Creams and Ointments: Topical creams such as hydrocortisone creams can reduce inflammation and itching;
• Suppositories: Suppositories can also provide relief by delivering medication directly to the affected area;
• Pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Home remedies

Home remedies can also be effective in treating hemorrhoids:

• Warm baths: Sitz baths in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and pain;
• Cold compresses: Applying ice or cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce swelling and relieve pain;
• Fiber: Increasing fiber intake through diet or supplements can help soften stools and prevent constipation.

Medical Procedures

In the event that conservative methods do not bring relief, it may be necessary to perform medical procedures:

• Rubber band ligation: This procedure involves placing small rubber bands around the base of internal hemorrhoids, cutting off the blood supply and causing them to shrink;
• Sclerotherapy: In this procedure, a chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, which causes the blood vessels to constrict;
• Infrared coagulation: This technique uses infrared light to shrink internal hemorrhoids;
• Surgical intervention: In severe cases, surgical removal of the hemorrhoids, known as a hemorrhoidectomy, may be necessary.

Alternative methods of treatment

Some patients find relief through alternative methods such as acupuncture and homeopathy. Although scientific evidence for the effectiveness of these methods is limited, they may offer additional options for symptom relief.

4. When to seek medical help?

Although many cases of hemorrhoids can be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications, there are situations where it is necessary to seek medical attention.

Recognizing these cases is key to preventing complications and ensuring effective treatment.

Persistent or heavy bleeding

One of the most important signs that you should consult a doctor is persistent or heavy bleeding from the anus. Although a small amount of blood in the stool is common with hemorrhoids, heavy or prolonged bleeding can be a sign of a serious problem, such as anal fissures, polyps, or even colorectal cancer. If you notice a large amount of blood or blood in your stool, seek medical attention immediately.

Strong pain

Severe or increasing pain in the anal area may be a sign of a complication such as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid in which a blood clot forms. This condition requires medical intervention to prevent further deterioration and provide pain relief.

Prolapsed hemorrhoids

If internal hemorrhoids prolapse outside the anus and cannot be retracted, this can cause significant discomfort and lead to infection or tissue necrosis. Prolapsed hemorrhoids require medical evaluation and often specific treatment.

Ineffectiveness of home remedies

If home remedies and over-the-counter medications do not provide relief from symptoms within two weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Prolonged inflammation and discomfort may require more aggressive treatment methods.

Symptoms of infection

If there are signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or discharge of pus from the anus, seek medical attention immediately. Infections can develop quickly and lead to serious complications.

Unclear diagnosis

If you're not sure whether your symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids or another condition, it's important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Some diseases of the intestine and anus have similar symptoms and require different treatment.

Seeking medical help for hemorrhoids early can prevent complications and ensure a faster recovery.

5. Prevention of hemorrhoids

Prevention of hemorrhoids is essential to avoid discomfort and potential complications. Following a few simple but effective strategies can significantly reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids.

Maintaining a healthy diet

Eating a diet rich in fiber is one of the most important preventive measures. Fiber helps soften stools and ease their passage through the intestines, thereby reducing pressure on the veins in the anal area. Examples of fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Drinking enough water

Hydration is key to keeping stools soft. Drinking at least eight glasses of water ( about 2 liters ) a day can prevent constipation and reduce pressure on the hemorrhoids.

Regular physical activity

Regular physical activity supports healthy circulation and can prevent constipation, which is an important factor in hemorrhoid prevention. Even moderate exercise such as walking and swimming can have a positive effect.

Avoiding prolonged sitting

Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum. To prevent the development of hemorrhoids, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting and take regular breaks and exercise.

Pelvic floor strengthening exercises

Pelvic floor strengthening exercises, such as Kegel exercises, can improve muscle tone in this area and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. These exercises help maintain healthy circulation and prevent constipation.

Maintaining a healthy weight

Excess weight can increase the pressure on the veins in the anal area and contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.

Avoid heavy lifting

Lifting heavy objects can increase pressure in the abdominal area and cause hemorrhoids. If you must lift weights, use proper technique and avoid excessive strain.

Proper hygiene in the toilet

Maintaining good toilet hygiene is important to prevent irritations and infections that can worsen hemorrhoids. Using soft toilet paper or wet wipes and avoiding harsh scrubbing can help prevent problems.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the answer to the question "how long can hemorrhoids last" depends on many factors. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people can manage the condition quickly and effectively. However, if you have long-lasting or severe symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

SOURCES:

1. Healthline: Causes of Hemorrhoids and Tips for Prevention (25.05.2024)
2. Mayo Clinic: Hemorrhoids  (25.05.2024)
3. Webmd: Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment (25.05.2024)
4. NHS: Understanding Hemorrhoids (25.05.2024)