What are the signs of bleeding hemorrhoids. How can you treat hemorrhoids at home. When should you seek medical attention for hemorrhoids. What medical treatments are available for severe hemorrhoids. How can you prevent hemorrhoids from developing or recurring.

Understanding Hemorrhoids: What They Are and Why They Bleed

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in and around the anus and rectum. While everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue, it can become enlarged and problematic due to various factors. But why do hemorrhoids bleed?

Bleeding typically occurs when there is excessive strain on these blood vessels. This can happen during bowel movements, especially if a person is constipated or has diarrhea. Other triggers include sitting or standing for extended periods, pregnancy, and lifting heavy objects.

When hemorrhoids bleed, you may notice bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with stool. It’s important to note that while this can be alarming, it’s usually not a cause for immediate concern unless the bleeding is severe or accompanied by other symptoms.

Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Bleeding Hemorrhoids

How can you tell if you have bleeding hemorrhoids? Here are some key symptoms to watch for:

• Bright red blood on toilet paper after wiping
• Blood in the toilet bowl or on stool
• Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation around the anus
• A lump or swelling near the anus (for external hemorrhoids)

It’s crucial to differentiate between internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless but can bleed, while external hemorrhoids can be both painful and bleed, especially if they become thrombosed (when a blood clot forms inside).

Home Remedies: Alleviating Discomfort and Reducing Bleeding

Can hemorrhoids be treated at home? In many cases, yes. Here are some effective home remedies:

1. Sitz baths: Sitting in warm water for 10-15 minutes can help soothe the area and reduce swelling.
2. Ice packs: Applying cold compresses can numb the area and reduce inflammation.
3. Over-the-counter creams and ointments: These can help relieve pain and itching.
4. Fiber-rich diet: Increasing fiber intake can soften stools and reduce strain during bowel movements.
5. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation.

While these remedies can provide relief, they may not completely stop bleeding in severe cases. If bleeding persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

Medical Treatments: When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough

In cases where home remedies don’t provide sufficient relief, medical treatments may be necessary. What options are available?

• Rubber band ligation: A small band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply.
• Sclerotherapy: Chemicals are injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.
• Infrared coagulation: Heat is used to shrink hemorrhoids.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of large or severe hemorrhoids.
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: A procedure that blocks blood flow to hemorrhoidal tissue.

These treatments are typically performed by a colorectal specialist or surgeon and are reserved for more severe or persistent cases of hemorrhoids.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing Your Risk of Hemorrhoids

Is it possible to prevent hemorrhoids from developing or recurring? While not always preventable, there are several strategies that can significantly reduce your risk:

• Maintain a high-fiber diet to promote regular, easy bowel movements
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Exercise regularly to improve circulation and bowel function
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Don’t sit on the toilet for extended periods
• Manage your weight, as excess weight can put pressure on the anal area

By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can help keep your digestive system healthy and reduce the likelihood of hemorrhoid development.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Hemorrhoids

While many cases of hemorrhoids can be managed at home, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. When should you see a doctor for hemorrhoids?

• Persistent bleeding that doesn’t improve with home treatment
• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• A lump near the anus that becomes increasingly painful
• Changes in bowel habits that last more than a week
• Any signs of infection, such as fever or pus drainage

It’s also important to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids or another condition. Some more serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer, can have similar symptoms.

Understanding Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: A Painful Complication

What happens when a hemorrhoid becomes thrombosed? A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms inside the hemorrhoid, causing intense pain and swelling. This condition can be particularly uncomfortable and may require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of a thrombosed hemorrhoid include:

• Severe pain around the anus
• A hard lump near the anus
• Bluish or purplish discoloration of the affected area
• Bleeding, especially if the thrombosed hemorrhoid ruptures

If you suspect you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid, it’s crucial to seek medical care promptly. Treatment options may include pain management, surgical removal of the clot, or allowing it to resolve on its own under medical supervision.

Dietary Considerations: Foods That Help and Harm Hemorrhoids

Can your diet affect hemorrhoids? Absolutely. What you eat can play a significant role in managing hemorrhoids and preventing their recurrence. Here are some dietary considerations:

Foods to Include:

• High-fiber fruits like apples, pears, and berries
• Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale
• Whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice
• Legumes including beans and lentils
• Water and other hydrating fluids

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

• Processed foods high in salt and sugar
• Red meat and other fatty foods
• Spicy foods that may irritate the digestive system
• Alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration

By focusing on a balanced, fiber-rich diet and staying well-hydrated, you can promote healthier bowel movements and reduce the strain that often leads to hemorrhoid development or exacerbation.

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy: A Common Concern

Why are hemorrhoids common during pregnancy? The increased pressure from the growing uterus, hormonal changes, and constipation often associated with pregnancy can all contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. In fact, up to 35% of pregnant women experience hemorrhoids, particularly in the third trimester.

Managing hemorrhoids during pregnancy requires special care. Here are some safe strategies:

• Eat a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation
• Avoid standing or sitting for long periods
• Use a pregnancy pillow to relieve pressure when sleeping
• Perform Kegel exercises to improve circulation in the rectal area
• Use cold compresses to reduce swelling

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter treatments for hemorrhoids during pregnancy, as some may not be safe for use while expecting.

Long-Term Management: Living with Chronic Hemorrhoids

For some individuals, hemorrhoids can become a chronic condition. How can you manage chronic hemorrhoids and maintain a good quality of life?

1. Maintain a consistent bowel routine to prevent constipation and straining
2. Use soft, unscented toilet paper or wet wipes to minimize irritation
3. Wear breathable, cotton underwear to reduce moisture and friction
4. Consider using a donut-shaped cushion when sitting for long periods
5. Practice good anal hygiene, including gentle cleaning after bowel movements
6. Engage in regular exercise to promote overall digestive health

While living with chronic hemorrhoids can be challenging, these strategies can help minimize discomfort and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can also ensure that your management plan remains effective and that no complications develop over time.

Alternative Therapies: Exploring Non-Traditional Treatments

Beyond conventional medical treatments, some individuals explore alternative therapies for hemorrhoid relief. While scientific evidence may be limited for some of these approaches, many people report positive experiences. What are some alternative treatments for hemorrhoids?

• Witch hazel: A natural astringent that may help reduce swelling and discomfort
• Aloe vera: Known for its soothing properties, it may help relieve irritation
• Psyllium husk: A natural fiber supplement that can help soften stools
• Sitz bath with Epsom salts: May provide additional relief compared to plain water
• Acupuncture: Some studies suggest it may help manage hemorrhoid symptoms

It’s important to note that while these alternative therapies may provide relief for some individuals, they should not replace medical advice or treatment for severe or persistent hemorrhoids. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

The Psychological Impact: Dealing with the Emotional Aspects of Hemorrhoids

The physical discomfort of hemorrhoids is often accompanied by emotional and psychological challenges. How can hemorrhoids affect a person’s mental well-being?

• Embarrassment or shame about discussing symptoms
• Anxiety about potential bleeding or pain during social activities
• Frustration with chronic symptoms that impact daily life
• Stress about the possibility of more serious underlying conditions
• Depression related to persistent discomfort or lifestyle limitations

Coping with these emotional aspects is an important part of managing hemorrhoids. Here are some strategies that may help:

1. Open communication with healthcare providers about all symptoms and concerns
2. Joining support groups or online forums to connect with others experiencing similar issues
3. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
4. Seeking counseling if hemorrhoids are significantly impacting mental health
5. Educating oneself about the condition to alleviate fears and uncertainties

Remember, hemorrhoids are a common condition that many people face. There’s no need to feel ashamed or isolated. With proper care and support, both the physical and emotional aspects of hemorrhoids can be effectively managed.

Innovations in Hemorrhoid Treatment: Looking to the Future

As medical science advances, new treatments for hemorrhoids continue to emerge. What are some of the latest innovations in hemorrhoid treatment?

• Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD): A minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to hemorrhoids
• Doppler-guided hemorrhoid artery ligation: Uses ultrasound to precisely locate and tie off hemorrhoidal arteries
• Radiofrequency ablation: Applies heat to shrink hemorrhoids and promote healing
• Advanced topical treatments: New formulations with improved absorption and efficacy
• Laser therapy: Uses targeted light energy to reduce hemorrhoid size and symptoms

While some of these treatments are still being studied or refined, they offer promising alternatives for individuals who haven’t found relief with traditional methods. As research continues, we can expect even more effective and less invasive options for managing hemorrhoids in the future.

It’s important to note that not all new treatments may be widely available or suitable for every case. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

Causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Passing a small amount of bright red blood with stool is often the only sign that a person has hemorrhoids.

Straining during a bowel movement is the main reason for bleeding hemorrhoids. Other triggers include diarrhea or constipation and sitting or standing for a long time. They can also happen during pregnancy or after lifting a heavy item.

Signs of bleeding hemorrhoids include bright, red blood staining the toilet paper or feces.

Most people can treat hemorrhoids at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

In this article, we look at why hemorrhoids bleed and what symptoms to look for. We also provide information on home remedies, medical treatments, and when to see a doctor.

Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue inside their anal canals. It consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and muscle.

When a person strains, sneezes, or exerts themselves, hemorrhoidal tissue swells to prevent feces from leaving the body. In most cases, the tissue returns to its usual size, but sometimes, it remains enlarged. When this happens, the enlarged tissue can form hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids can bleed:

• after a bowel movement, especially if there is straining
• with diarrhea or constipation
• after sitting or standing for a long time
• during pregnancy
• when lifting a heavy object
• if a blood clot blocks the blood supply, leading to ulceration and dead tissue

Hemorrhoids often remain inside the anal canal, but sometimes they bulge outward from the anus and become visible outside of the body. Either type can bleed, but only external ones are painful.

Hemorrhoids, or piles, are the most common cause of bleeding from the rectum.

If hemorrhoids bleed, a person may see traces or streaks of bright, red blood:

• on tissues after wiping
• in the toilet bowl
• in the stool

If the blood is dark red, the person should notify a doctor as this can indicate a problem higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

Thrombosed hemorrhoid

A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid.

As the swelling increases, pressure from surrounding tissues or stool can cause the hemorrhoid to rupture and bleed, often at the end of a bowel movement. This can lead to significant bleeding. There may also be severe pain.

A person should seek medical help at once if they notice:

• severe pain
• constant bleeding from the hemorrhoid
• more than a few drops of blood in the toilet bowl, perhaps with blood clots
• a bluish lump on the anus, suggesting a thrombosed hemorrhoid

Anyone with severe bleeding should seek medical help at once.

A thrombosed hemorrhoid also needs urgent treatment. Without treatment, thrombosed hemorrhoids can compress and damage the blood vessels in surrounding, healthy tissues.

If a person has symptoms of hemorrhoids that do not improve after 7 days, they should see a doctor.

What are some other causes of blood in the stool?

Medical treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size of the hemorrhoids, and whether the person has already tried other treatment options.

The following are some treatment options that may take place in a doctor’s office:

• Rubber band ligation involves placing a small band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Hemorrhoids will usually fall off around 5–7 days later.
• Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink. Scarring occurs in the blood vessels, stopping blood from flowing through them.
• Cryotherapy freezes the blood vessels, scarring the tissue and blocking the blood flow.
• Infrared photocoagulation uses a laser to damage hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and slough off.

If a person has large or bulky hemorrhoids or other treatments have not helped, more invasive surgery may be necessary, such as:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then cut the hemorrhoid away. For large hemorrhoids, a person may need general anesthesia.
• Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will staple the hemorrhoids back inside of the anus.
• Hemorrhoid artery ligation: The doctor stitches the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoid, and it shrinks.

All these procedures aim to tie off the bleeding blood vessels so that they no longer bleed.

Learn more about hemorrhoid surgeries here.

Home remedies cannot resolve bleeding hemorrhoids, but they can help relieve hemorrhoids and their symptoms.

Here are some home remedies to relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of further bleeding:

Sitz bath

A sitz bath is a small plastic tub that fits over the toilet seat. Filling it with warm water, around 104°F or 40°C, and sitting in it for up to 15 minutes can help maintain hygiene and relieve pain and irritation. Do not add anything to the water.

Ice

Applying ice packs or ice covered with a cloth to swollen areas can help reduce hemorrhoid pain and inflammation.

Good toilet habits

Toilet habits that can help include:

• using the bathroom when the person feels an urge to go, without delay
• avoiding excessive straining or pushing
• limiting time on the toilet to 3–5 minutes
• avoiding excessive wiping

Water

If a person increases their water intake, it may help soften their stool, making it easier to pass. Less straining during bowel movements gives hemorrhoids a chance to heal.

Experts recommend a daily water intake of 64 fluid ounces or more for people with hemorrhoids.

OTC treatments include:

• creams or suppositories containing steroids, which reduce inflammation
• bulk-forming agents that work best when a person takes them in the morning and drinks plenty of fluids during the day
• stool softeners, which may contain polyethylene glycol or docusate
• rectal ointments containing witch hazel

Bleeding hemorrhoids often happen when a person strains when passing stool. Maintaining regular bowel movements can help prevent both hemorrhoids and bleeding. Other preventative measures include:

• increasing fiber intake
• drinking plenty of water
• exercising

Most cases of hemorrhoids resolve with conservative treatment, such as home remedies and OTC medications. Internal hemorrhoids have a 10–50% chance of returning in the next 5 years, but less than 5% after surgery. The chance of external hemorrhoids recurring after conservative treatment is over 50%, but only 5–10% after surgery.

Possible complications of both types of hemorrhoids and surgery include:

• infection
• thrombosis, where a blood clot forms
• incontinence

Following surgery, there is also a 30–50% chance of urinary retention.

Bleeding hemorrhoids can cause concern, but they do not always need medical intervention. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, however, or there is severe pain, a person should contact a doctor.

Adopting a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and bleeding.

A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about hemorrhoid symptoms, there is persistent or heavy bleeding, or they notice dark, red blood. The doctor will discuss treatment options with them and may carry out tests to rule out other conditions.

Here are some questions people often ask about bleeding hemorrhoids.

How do you treat a bleeding hemorrhoid?

To relieve discomfort, a person can take a sitz bath or apply ice wrapped in a cloth. OTC options can also help reduce inflammation and soften stool. Consuming plenty of water and fiber can help improve bowel movements and reduce the risk of straining, making hemorrhoids less likely to bleed.

Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?

In most cases, occasional spotting with bright, red blood is not serious. However, if bleeding continues, there is severe pain, or the blood is dark red, a person should see a doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.

Should I go to a doctor for bleeding hemorrhoids?

A person should see a doctor at once if bleeding is persistent or there is a lot of blood, which may include blood clots. They should also seek help if they notice dark, red blood, which can be a sign of problems in the stomach or intestines.

How long does it take for a bleeding hemorrhoid to heal?

This will depend on the individual, but if it persists longer than a week or the person is unsure why it is happening, they should see a doctor.

Read the article in Spanish.

Causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Passing a small amount of bright red blood with stool is often the only sign that a person has hemorrhoids.

Straining during a bowel movement is the main reason for bleeding hemorrhoids. Other triggers include diarrhea or constipation and sitting or standing for a long time. They can also happen during pregnancy or after lifting a heavy item.

Signs of bleeding hemorrhoids include bright, red blood staining the toilet paper or feces.

Most people can treat hemorrhoids at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

In this article, we look at why hemorrhoids bleed and what symptoms to look for. We also provide information on home remedies, medical treatments, and when to see a doctor.

Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue inside their anal canals. It consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and muscle.

When a person strains, sneezes, or exerts themselves, hemorrhoidal tissue swells to prevent feces from leaving the body. In most cases, the tissue returns to its usual size, but sometimes, it remains enlarged. When this happens, the enlarged tissue can form hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids can bleed:

• after a bowel movement, especially if there is straining
• with diarrhea or constipation
• after sitting or standing for a long time
• during pregnancy
• when lifting a heavy object
• if a blood clot blocks the blood supply, leading to ulceration and dead tissue

Hemorrhoids often remain inside the anal canal, but sometimes they bulge outward from the anus and become visible outside of the body. Either type can bleed, but only external ones are painful.

Hemorrhoids, or piles, are the most common cause of bleeding from the rectum.

If hemorrhoids bleed, a person may see traces or streaks of bright, red blood:

• on tissues after wiping
• in the toilet bowl
• in the stool

If the blood is dark red, the person should notify a doctor as this can indicate a problem higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

Thrombosed hemorrhoid

A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid.

As the swelling increases, pressure from surrounding tissues or stool can cause the hemorrhoid to rupture and bleed, often at the end of a bowel movement. This can lead to significant bleeding. There may also be severe pain.

A person should seek medical help at once if they notice:

• severe pain
• constant bleeding from the hemorrhoid
• more than a few drops of blood in the toilet bowl, perhaps with blood clots
• a bluish lump on the anus, suggesting a thrombosed hemorrhoid

Anyone with severe bleeding should seek medical help at once.

A thrombosed hemorrhoid also needs urgent treatment. Without treatment, thrombosed hemorrhoids can compress and damage the blood vessels in surrounding, healthy tissues.

If a person has symptoms of hemorrhoids that do not improve after 7 days, they should see a doctor.

What are some other causes of blood in the stool?

Medical treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size of the hemorrhoids, and whether the person has already tried other treatment options.

The following are some treatment options that may take place in a doctor’s office:

• Rubber band ligation involves placing a small band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Hemorrhoids will usually fall off around 5–7 days later.
• Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink. Scarring occurs in the blood vessels, stopping blood from flowing through them.
• Cryotherapy freezes the blood vessels, scarring the tissue and blocking the blood flow.
• Infrared photocoagulation uses a laser to damage hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and slough off.

If a person has large or bulky hemorrhoids or other treatments have not helped, more invasive surgery may be necessary, such as:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then cut the hemorrhoid away. For large hemorrhoids, a person may need general anesthesia.
• Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will staple the hemorrhoids back inside of the anus.
• Hemorrhoid artery ligation: The doctor stitches the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoid, and it shrinks.

All these procedures aim to tie off the bleeding blood vessels so that they no longer bleed.

Learn more about hemorrhoid surgeries here.

Home remedies cannot resolve bleeding hemorrhoids, but they can help relieve hemorrhoids and their symptoms.

Here are some home remedies to relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of further bleeding:

Sitz bath

A sitz bath is a small plastic tub that fits over the toilet seat. Filling it with warm water, around 104°F or 40°C, and sitting in it for up to 15 minutes can help maintain hygiene and relieve pain and irritation. Do not add anything to the water.

Ice

Applying ice packs or ice covered with a cloth to swollen areas can help reduce hemorrhoid pain and inflammation.

Good toilet habits

Toilet habits that can help include:

• using the bathroom when the person feels an urge to go, without delay
• avoiding excessive straining or pushing
• limiting time on the toilet to 3–5 minutes
• avoiding excessive wiping

Water

If a person increases their water intake, it may help soften their stool, making it easier to pass. Less straining during bowel movements gives hemorrhoids a chance to heal.

Experts recommend a daily water intake of 64 fluid ounces or more for people with hemorrhoids.

OTC treatments include:

• creams or suppositories containing steroids, which reduce inflammation
• bulk-forming agents that work best when a person takes them in the morning and drinks plenty of fluids during the day
• stool softeners, which may contain polyethylene glycol or docusate
• rectal ointments containing witch hazel

Bleeding hemorrhoids often happen when a person strains when passing stool. Maintaining regular bowel movements can help prevent both hemorrhoids and bleeding. Other preventative measures include:

• increasing fiber intake
• drinking plenty of water
• exercising

Most cases of hemorrhoids resolve with conservative treatment, such as home remedies and OTC medications. Internal hemorrhoids have a 10–50% chance of returning in the next 5 years, but less than 5% after surgery. The chance of external hemorrhoids recurring after conservative treatment is over 50%, but only 5–10% after surgery.

Possible complications of both types of hemorrhoids and surgery include:

• infection
• thrombosis, where a blood clot forms
• incontinence

Following surgery, there is also a 30–50% chance of urinary retention.

Bleeding hemorrhoids can cause concern, but they do not always need medical intervention. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, however, or there is severe pain, a person should contact a doctor.

Adopting a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and bleeding.

A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about hemorrhoid symptoms, there is persistent or heavy bleeding, or they notice dark, red blood. The doctor will discuss treatment options with them and may carry out tests to rule out other conditions.

Here are some questions people often ask about bleeding hemorrhoids.

How do you treat a bleeding hemorrhoid?

To relieve discomfort, a person can take a sitz bath or apply ice wrapped in a cloth. OTC options can also help reduce inflammation and soften stool. Consuming plenty of water and fiber can help improve bowel movements and reduce the risk of straining, making hemorrhoids less likely to bleed.

Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?

In most cases, occasional spotting with bright, red blood is not serious. However, if bleeding continues, there is severe pain, or the blood is dark red, a person should see a doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.

Should I go to a doctor for bleeding hemorrhoids?

A person should see a doctor at once if bleeding is persistent or there is a lot of blood, which may include blood clots. They should also seek help if they notice dark, red blood, which can be a sign of problems in the stomach or intestines.

How long does it take for a bleeding hemorrhoid to heal?

This will depend on the individual, but if it persists longer than a week or the person is unsure why it is happening, they should see a doctor.

Read the article in Spanish.

What to do if hemorrhoids are bleeding

With such a common disease as hemorrhoids, bleeding from the anus associated with defecation is very common. In some cases, such bleeding is the main and only symptom of the disease, clearly indicating the presence of serious problems and forcing the patient to seek medical help, and the proctologist to look for the true cause of bleeding, exclude oncology and, depending on the results of the examination, plan therapeutic measures.

Yusupov Hospital is an innovative multidisciplinary clinic where each patient is provided with the best quality medical care. The hallmark of the clinic is a modern integrated approach at all stages of treatment and rehabilitation. In the Yusupov hospital you can get advice on any issue that interests you, including issues related to various proctological diseases.

In addition, in order to save your time and money, the Coloproctology Department of the Yusupov Hospital has created a proctological Check-up program that will help people of any age be confident in their health. The main reward for the employees of the Yusupov Hospital is the trust of clients, built on honesty, openness and willingness to help.

Causes

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common proctological diseases and the most common reason for visiting a coloproctologist. The prevalence of the disease is 130-145 people per 1000 of the adult population, and its share in the structure of colon diseases ranges from 34 to 41%. Hemorrhoids are equally common in both men and women.

Hemorrhoidal disease can be asymptomatic for quite a long time. But when the blood flow is disturbed in the venous plexuses of the rectum, and they literally become filled with blood, an exacerbation of hemorrhoidal disease occurs. As the disease develops, the nodes increase, periodically become inflamed. Internal vascular cones reduce the rectal lumen, which makes it difficult to defecate.

Why bleeding starts:

• Mechanical damage to nodes during defecation. If the patient suffers from constipation, then they will lead to the fact that dense fecal masses passing through the anal canal will injure the enlarged nodes, and make them a source of bleeding;
• Poor circulation and stagnant processes in the pelvic area lead to thinning of the venous wall. Because of this, small erosions and even anal fissures are formed. During defecation, they are also damaged – and this is also one of the causes of bleeding;
• Another reason for the development of bleeding is an already advanced disease, very large affected nodes and, of course, ignoring the problem.

Hemorrhoidal bleeding is not always really voluminous bleeding. A couple of drops of blood on toilet paper is already bleeding. These drops can also be found on the surface of feces, on underwear. Pain is usually absent, the discharge quickly disappears after defecation. But with complicated hemorrhoids, blood loss can be significant, and it is not always possible to stop it.

If hemorrhoids lead to thrombosis of hemorrhoids, which in turn is complicated by necrosis, massive bleeding sometimes occurs. This is a threat to the life of the patient, so immediate hospitalization is needed. Hemorrhoids can lead to other complications: rectal fissure, acute paraproctitis, fistula formation. They, in turn, also lead to prolonged bleeding.

Symptoms

Bleeding with hemorrhoids is manifested by the appearance of drops and splashes of bright scarlet blood from the anus. They remain on the toilet after the act of defecation. Occasionally, patients find blood on toilet paper, underwear, and stool. Bleeding with hemorrhoids is not accompanied by pain. Predominantly, blood from the hemorrhoids ceases to be excreted at the end of the act of defecation and is repeated with the next stool.

There is a division of hemorrhoidal bleeding into abundant, that is, occurring with each act of defecation and manifested by the release of splashes or trickles of blood, and not abundant, appearing only after obvious errors in nutrition, with constipation. According to statistics, in about 40% of patients with hemorrhoids, bleeding is the only symptom of an existing disease.

In addition, the presence of hemorrhoids and their permanent damage during the long course of hemorrhoids quite often leads to the addition of such diseases as anal fissure, acute paraproctitis, rectal fistula. In this case, in the clinical picture of hemorrhoids, in addition to classic bleeding, symptoms such as pain, the appearance of mucus and pus during defecation, fever and other signs that make it difficult to determine the true cause of the existing disorder occur.

Bleeding from the rectum, especially not associated with the act of defecation, is a rather serious symptom that occurs in a wide variety of diseases, such as:

• malignant tumors of the rectum and colon;
• polyps and neoplasms of other parts of the gastrointestinal tract;
• diverticulosis of the colon;
• ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease;
• angiodysplasia of the colon;
• intestinal endometriosis in women;
• mesenteric circulation disorders;
• anal fissure.

The situation is complicated by a rather frequent combination of hemorrhoids with the above diseases. Only a timely and complete examination of patients with bleeding from the rectum allows you to determine the true cause of this bleeding and prescribe an effective treatment to eliminate it.

Excessive bleeding in hemorrhoids leads to the development of acute anemia. The patient is worried about dizziness, “flies” appear before his eyes, he may lose consciousness for a while. The skin and visible mucous membranes become pale, the pulse is frequent, weak filling and tension, blood pressure decreases. In the blood test, few erythrocytes are determined, in which the hemoglobin content is reduced.

With repeated bleeding from hemorrhoids, chronic iron deficiency anemia may develop. Patients complain of weakness, dizziness, decreased ability to work. The skin becomes pale, dry, hair and nails become brittle. In the blood test, a reduced amount of red blood cells, iron and hemoglobin is determined.

Diagnosis

The main thing that a patient should do when bleeding from the anus is detected is to immediately contact a qualified proctologist.

A specialist at the Yusupov Hospital will conduct a full clinical examination with a digital examination of the rectum, prescribe an endoscopic examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon (sigmoidoscopy) or all parts of the large intestine (colonoscopy).
If necessary, other diagnostic procedures (laboratory, ultrasound, x-ray) may be prescribed.

A timely examination will allow you to quickly determine the true cause of bleeding, prevent possible complications and make sure that there are no oncological diseases, and if they are detected, provide timely treatment at an early stage.

Specialists of the Yusupov Hospital create all the conditions for the most modern and accurate diagnostics to be comfortable and accessible for each patient:

• an appointment with a proctologist – around the clock and seven days a week. No waiting and no queue. Complete confidentiality;
• examination takes no more than 5-10 minutes;
• the latest equipment – minimum discomfort, maximum accuracy, the highest detail;
• HD video anoscopy and rectoscopy. Videocolonoscopy with the possibility of early cancer detection;
• pain-free diagnosis guarantee. An anesthetic gel eliminates discomfort. Colonoscopy under drug sleep conditions.

Treatment

In most cases, bleeding from hemorrhoids is minor, which can be managed with conservative measures. First of all, this is the normalization of the stool with the appointment of an appropriate diet that prevents constipation, as well as the implementation of therapeutic measures aimed at stopping the exacerbation of hemorrhoids and preventing bleeding from enlarged nodes. A good effect is given by such simple procedures as baths and microclysters with infusions of medicinal plants and solutions of medicines, candles and ointments that have analgesic, anti-inflammatory effects, preventing the appearance of blood from hemorrhoids during defecation.

If there is an intense and prolonged discharge of blood from the nodes with hemorrhoids, the appearance of anemia, urgent hospitalization and urgent therapeutic measures are necessary to stop bleeding and replenish the volume of circulating blood. Naturally, it is necessary to make sure that the cause of the outflow of blood is hemorrhoids, and not a tumor of one of the sections of the gastrointestinal tract. After stopping the exacerbation, the proctologist will recommend the best treatment plan that will permanently get rid of hemorrhoids.

A timely visit to a proctologist at the Yusupov Hospital will save you from the inconvenience and anguish caused by hemorrhoids, as well as from the oncological threat. You can make an appointment with a proctologist at the Yusupov Hospital by calling the 24-hour hotline.

signs, causes and treatments of the disease

05/25/2023

3-5 minutes

247

Contents

• Causes and mechanism of hemorrhoids
• Why men develop hemorrhoids more often
• Symptoms of hemorrhoids in men
• Diagnosis of hemorrhoids in men
• Methods of treating disease

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Hemorrhoids are among the most common diseases and are the most frequently diagnosed proctological pathology in both men and women. At the same time, many patients do not go to the doctor with an “uncomfortable” problem until the last moment, self-medicating. It is categorically not worth doing this: in the early stages, hemorrhoids can be treated conservatively under the supervision of a qualified specialist, and in the later stages, which are often treated in clinics, it is usually impossible to do without surgery. A particularly late visit to the doctor is typical for men: they tend to pay insufficient attention to their health. At the same time, they develop hemorrhoids somewhat more often than women. And the point is not in the features of anatomy, but in a greater number of provoking factors. ^{1, 2}

In this article, we will tell you what is the reason, by what signs a man can assume hemorrhoids, how this disease is diagnosed and how it is treated.

Causes and mechanism of hemorrhoids

What is hemorrhoids and how does it develop? There are two types of it: external and internal.

With internal hemorrhoids , hypertrophy of the cavernous veins of the rectal plexus occurs. In simple terms, hemorrhoids located in the rectum increase in size, their walls rupture (because of this, bleeding occurs – a characteristic sign of the disease), the nodes themselves shift and gradually begin to fall out of the anal canal.

External hemorrhoids are varicose veins in the external rectal plexus, which is located under the skin around the anus. Expanded hemorrhoids in this case are initially located outside, representing large skin folds around the anus.

Despite the different localization, the mechanism of development of hemorrhoids is the same. Two factors play a leading role in its pathogenesis.

• Hemodynamic . In this case, we are talking about the excess of arterial blood inflow over venous outflow. As a result, blood stagnates in the cavernous veins, they increase over time, which is why large nodes form.

• Muscular dystrophic . No less important than hemodynamics in the formation of hemorrhoids is dystrophy of the longitudinal muscle of the submucosa of the rectum, as well as Parkes’s ligament. They are located in the intersphincter space of the anal canal and hold the internal hemorrhoids inside. When the muscle frame is weakened, the nodes shift and fall out. ^{1, 3, 4}

Why do men develop hemorrhoids more often

But why are men a little more likely to experience this pathology than women? In order to understand the causes of hemorrhoids in men, it is necessary to turn to the risk factors for its development. Many factors can provoke the disease, among which:

• heavy physical labor, heavy lifting . Some professions in our country are still prohibited for women. And basically this work involves great physical exertion, lifting weights. Most of these positions are held by men. And everywhere hard physical labor is one of the main risk factors for hemorrhoids. Lifting weights negatively affects both the blood circulation process and the condition of the muscles in the rectal area. So men employed in such jobs are at risk;

• sedentary lifestyle . For men, this factor partly follows from the previous one: while working on physically hard work, the rest of the time, many tend to relax, lying on the couch or sitting at the computer. But those who have sedentary work suffer no less: it is one of the main causes of stagnation of blood in the veins, their expansion;

• malnutrition, bad habits . It is men who are more prone to eating fatty, spicy, fried and peppery foods. The same can be said about smoking and drinking alcohol. All these are also risk factors for the development of hemorrhoids, which increases the chance of its occurrence in men. That is why as a preventive measure it is always recommended to adhere to a healthy lifestyle.

For women, the main risk factors are childbirth and pregnancy. ^{1, 2}

Symptoms of hemorrhoids in men

Signs of hemorrhoids in men are no different from its manifestations in women and include the following main symptoms:

• bleeding during bowel movements . This is the main and most typical sign of hemorrhoids: the first thing patients usually notice is blood on the toilet paper. At first it may be a little, then the amount usually increases. Sometimes bleeding leads to severe blood loss, up to the need for a blood transfusion. This is especially true for internal hemorrhoids;

• prolapse of knots through the anus . This is also a symptom of internal hemorrhoids (when external, the nodes are already outside). In the early stages, the knots independently reset back into the anal canal, then this can only be done manually, later it is no longer possible to set them;
• pain, discomfort . They can be of a different nature: nodes that fall out or located outside can interfere with walking, in case of inflammation, soreness, itching and other unpleasant sensations may be present.

Symptoms can be expressed to varying degrees depending on the nature of the process (acute or chronic), the stage of the disease, and other factors. ¹

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids in men

If there are symptoms of hemorrhoids, a man should contact a proctologist for diagnosis. If this disease is suspected, the doctor examines the patient, performs a digital examination of the anal canal. If the process is not acute (or after it subsides), a sigmoidoscopy is performed, and if necessary, a colonoscopy. For the treatment of hemorrhoids in a man, it is important not only to correctly determine the stage, but also to differentiate and exclude other rectal diseases that can also cause similar symptoms. ³

Ways to treat the disease

After making a diagnosis, the doctor first of all determines the optimal method of treating hemorrhoids for a man. It depends on several factors:

• is the process acute or chronic;

• its stages;
• the presence or absence of contraindications to surgical treatment.

In the early stages or with acute hemorrhoids, conservative treatment can often be dispensed with. Preparations for topical use or oral administration are selected individually. These can be hemostatic agents, anti-inflammatory, phlebotropic drugs to improve the tone of the veins.

For example, Natalsid ^® suppositories are often prescribed to patients. This is a drug with a natural composition: its active substance, sodium alginate, is obtained from brown seaweed. Due to this, the drug has a small set of contraindications, biological compatibility and low toxicity. Natalsid ^® does not contain anesthetics, however, it is able to relieve pain in case of hemorrhoids due to the enveloping effect of sodium alginate on the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating the excretion of feces. It is used in the treatment of chronic bleeding hemorrhoids, as well as other diseases of the rectum. ⁵

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If conservative treatment is not feasible, minimally invasive surgical techniques are used (for example, latex ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared photocoagulation of hemorrhoids) or, in advanced cases, hemorrhoidectomy.