Although this disease is quite common in society, many people delay the treatment process due to embarrassment or privacy concerns. However, hemorrhoid treatment can be much easier and more effective with early intervention. If left untreated, hemorrhoids can seriously complicate daily life and make even basic activities such as sitting and walking painful. In the treatment of hemorrhoids, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms with various lifestyle changes and medications before surgical intervention.
What are piles (hemorrhoids)?
Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are a condition that occurs when the veins in the anus and lower rectum swell and expand. The expansion of these veins can occur inside the anus or under the surrounding skin, and accordingly, hemorrhoids are divided into 2 types: internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids usually develop inside the anus and can cause bleeding during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, occur under the skin around the anus, so they can be felt by hand and are usually more painful and uncomfortable.
Hemorrhoids are often triggered by conditions such as constipation, sitting for long periods, excessive straining, or pregnancy. These risk factors can increase pressure on the veins, causing them to swell and cause hemorrhoid symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent the condition from progressing.
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a disease that usually progresses in 4 stages, and the symptoms become increasingly severe in each stage. While it starts with mild discomfort in the early stages, more serious symptoms may occur in the later stages. The most common symptoms in people with hemorrhoid problems include bright, light red bleeding in the anus or stool, swelling around the anus, itching, discharge, and increasing pain and stinging in the later stages.
The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids are:
- Bright and light red bleeding in the anus and/or stool,
- Palpable swelling in the anus,
- Itching in the anus area,
- Feeling of discharge and wetness,
- Pain and stinging are the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids.
How to treat hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a condition that progresses in 4 stages. In the first two stages, patients are usually advised to take medication and change their lifestyle. In these stages, symptoms are tried to be relieved by using hemorrhoid ointments, creams, suppositories or oral medications. At the same time, measures such as changing eating habits, consuming plenty of fiber and regular exercise are aimed at preventing the formation of hemorrhoids or improving the current situation.
If the patient does not respond positively to drug treatment, surgical intervention may be required in stages 3 and 4. In the advanced stage, when the hemorrhoidal lump protrudes significantly and does not respond to other treatments, surgical interventions come into play. At this stage, the protruding hemorrhoid tissue is completely removed or fixed in its original place by hanging it with a stapler method.
What is good for hemorrhoids?
Some simple lifestyle changes can be very effective in alleviating and preventing hemorrhoids. Eating foods rich in fiber regulates the digestive system, prevents constipation and reduces straining during bowel movements. Drinking enough water throughout the day also softens bowel movements, reducing the risk of developing hemorrhoids. In addition, warm water sit baths taken several times a day are very beneficial for relieving pain and providing relief.
Can hemorrhoids be cured with cream?
Hemorrhoid creams are used to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids, but they usually do not cure the disease completely. These creams provide temporary relief to the patient by reducing symptoms such as pain, itching, swelling and inflammation.