Hemorrhoids are a common condition that affects many people at some point in their lives. Despite being a common ailment, it is often shrouded with misunderstandings and misconceptions.

Hemorrhoids are not life-threatening, but they can cause unbearable pain, discomfort, and embarrassment if not handled properly.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Before we dive into the truth about hemorrhoids, let’s first understand what they are. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. They can be internal or external.

Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum, and external hemorrhoids are found on the skin around the anus.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

The exact cause of hemorrhoids is still unknown, but there are some factors that can increase your risk of developing the condition:.

Pregnancy
Chronic constipation or diarrhea
Aging
Obesity
Sitting for long periods
A low-fiber diet

It is also important to note that hemorrhoids are not contagious, and you cannot acquire them from someone who already has them.

Hemorrhoids Symptoms

The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on the type, location, and severity of the condition. While some people may not experience any symptoms at all, others may experience:.

Bleeding from the anus
Pain or discomfort
Itching or irritation around the anus
A lump near the anus
Mucus discharge after a bowel movement
Fecal leakage

Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be treated using non-invasive methods, and in most cases, they go away on their own without any treatment.

However, if your hemorrhoids are causing you significant pain and discomfort, your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments:.

Topical creams – Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel can help relieve itching and pain.
Painkillers – If your hemorrhoids are causing you significant pain, taking painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help relieve the pain.
Lifestyle changes – Incorporating more fiber-rich foods and drinking lots of water can help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Banding – This procedure involves placing a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, causing it to wither and fall off.
Sclerotherapy – This is a non-surgical procedure that involves injecting a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and disappear.
Hemorrhoidectomy – In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the hemorrhoids.

Preventing Hemorrhoids

Prevention is the best way to avoid the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Here are some tips to help you prevent hemorrhoids:.

Drink lots of water – Staying hydrated can help prevent constipation.
Eat a high-fiber diet – Fiber-rich foods can help prevent constipation.
Exercise regularly – Exercise can help prevent constipation.
Avoid straining during bowel movements – Straining can lead to hemorrhoids.
Avoid sitting for long periods – Take breaks and move around to prevent the blood from pooling in the veins around your anus.
Don’t hold your breath when lifting heavy objects – This can increase pressure in your abdominal and rectal areas.

The Truth About Hemorrhoids Myths

There are many myths and misconceptions about hemorrhoids. Here are some of the most common ones:.

Myth 1: Hemorrhoids are caused by dirty anal habits

This myth could not be further from the truth. Hemorrhoids are not caused by poor hygiene, but rather, by increased pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum.

Myth 2: Hemorrhoids are only a problem for older people

While age is a risk factor for developing hemorrhoids, people of all ages can get them. In fact, pregnant women are more likely to develop hemorrhoids due to the increased pressure on their veins and hormonal changes.

Myth 3: You can catch hemorrhoids from someone else

As mentioned earlier, hemorrhoids are not contagious, and you cannot acquire them from someone who already has them.

Myth 4: Hemorrhoids are always painful and require surgery

While hemorrhoids can be painful and uncomfortable, they often go away on their own without any treatment. In most cases, non-surgical treatments such as lifestyle changes and topical creams can provide relief.

Myth 5: Hemorrhoids always bleed

While bleeding is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, not all hemorrhoids bleed. Some people may only experience pain, itchiness, or discomfort.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that affects many people. They are not life-threatening, but they can cause significant pain and discomfort if left untreated.

The key to preventing and treating hemorrhoids is to understand the truth about the condition and dispel any misconceptions. Simple lifestyle changes such as drinking lots of water and eating a high-fiber diet can go a long way in preventing the development of hemorrhoids.

If you do develop hemorrhoids, non-surgical treatments such as topical creams and banding can help provide relief.