As a proctologist with many years of clinical experience, I have witnessed the pain and recovery of countless patients with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids, a seemingly common but troubling disease, are unique to each patient's symptoms and experiences. Therefore, individualized treatment is not only the recommended approach, but is actually the key to ensuring that the treatment is maximized.
I remember one time, a middle-aged man came to my clinic with an embarrassed and painful face. His hemorrhoids had progressed to a more severe stage, and his quality of life had been greatly affected. Through a detailed examination and medical history, I found that he had tried a variety of medications and home remedies with little success because they were not specific to his specific situation. We decided on a regimen that combined medication and minimally invasive treatments, paying special attention to his diet and adjustments to his daily activities.
A few weeks later, the patient came back with significantly improved symptoms. Not only did his haemorrhoid symptoms ease, but more importantly, through this individualized treatment, he learned how to manage his condition and prevent future recurrences.
Identify the type of hemorrhoids and why they are important
Before discussing the treatment of hemorrhoids, it is crucial to understand the types of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids, commonly known as "hemorrhoids", are mainly divided into three types according to their location and lesion characteristics: internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, and mixed hemorrhoids. Each type of hemorrhoids has different symptoms and treatments, so accurate identification is the first step in individualized treatment.
Internal hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and usually form above the venous plexus inside the anal canal. In the early stages, patients may not feel pain because of the lack of pain nerves in the area. Common symptoms include painless blood in the stool, especially during bowel movements, and patients may notice bright red blood stains on toilet paper or on the toilet. One risk of internal hemorrhoids is that they may come out and get stuck outside the anus, a condition known as prolapse and requires prompt treatment to avoid further complications.
External hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids occur on the outside near the opening of the anus, closer to the surface of the skin, so they can cause significant pain and discomfort when they become inflamed or form a blood clot. Typical symptoms of external hemorrhoids include anal itching, pain, and increased pain during bowel movements. Because external hemorrhoids are easily painful, patients are often able to detect and seek medical help earlier.
Mixed hemorrhoids
Mixed hemorrhoids are a combination of internal and external hemorrhoids, and patients experience symptoms of both internal and external hemorrhoids. This type of hemorrhoids is complicated to treat because of the need to consider both internal and external hemorrhoids treatment strategies.
Understanding the different types of hemorrhoids is key to developing an effective treatment plan. For example, internal hemorrhoids may be better suited for minimally invasive treatments such as rubber band ligation, while external hemorrhoids may require topical medication to reduce inflammation and pain. For mixed hemorrhoids, a combination of treatments may be needed to effectively relieve symptoms.
Overview of common treatment options: Treatment of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a common health problem that affects people of different ages. There are various ways to treat hemorrhoids, from conservative treatment to minimally invasive surgery and even the need for surgery. Which treatment to choose depends on the type of hemorrhoid, its severity, and the individual's health condition.
Conservative treatment
Conservative treatment is usually the initial approach to mild symptoms, including:
Medications: These include the use of pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical medications such as hemorrhoid creams or suppositories, which can reduce symptoms and provide temporary relief.
Lifestyle modifications: Changing your diet, increasing your fiber intake, ensuring adequate hydration, and engaging in regular physical activity can relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids and reduce recurrence.
Minimally invasive treatment
Minimally invasive treatments may be considered when conservative treatment is not effective in controlling symptoms, and this type of treatment is usually indicated for moderate haemorrhoids:
Rubber band ligation: This is a common treatment that cuts off blood flow by putting a small rubber band over the base of the internal hemorrhoid, causing the hemorrhoidal tissue to fall off after necrosis.
Sclerotherapy: By injecting a sclerotherapy into the hemorrhoidal tissue, it causes the tissue to harden and eventually atrophy.
Infrared photocoagulation: Infrared light is used to create a thermal effect that causes the hemorrhoidal tissue to coagulate and subsequently fall off.
Surgical options
In cases of severe or complicated hemorrhoids, surgery may be required:
Traditional surgery: such as hemorrhoidectomy, which is suitable for severe external hemorrhoids or mixed internal and external hemorrhoids.
Painless surgical techniques: such as those performed with a laser or electrosurgical unit, which aim to reduce pain during surgery and recovery time after surgery.
Lifestyle modification and self-management skills: to avoid recurrence and exacerbation of hemorrhoids
When it comes to hemorrhoids, many patients can significantly improve their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments in addition to seeking medical treatment. Here are some effective self-management tips to reduce the discomfort of hemorrhoids and prevent them from returning.
Dietary modifications: Increase fiber intake
Fiber plays a vital role in the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids. High-fiber foods help to soften the poop and reduce the pressure during bowel movements, which reduces the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Recommended foods: Include whole-grain bread, oats, legumes, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, and more.
Daily tip: Try adding a serving of vegetables or fruit to each meal to gradually increase your total fiber intake.
Maintain proper hydration
Lack of hydration often leads to constipation, which increases constipation and increases constipation, which can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms. Ensuring adequate water intake is essential for maintaining gut health.
Daily goal: Drink at least 8 glasses of water (about 2 liters) a day, depending on the individual.
Practical tip: Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during sports or hot weather.
Appropriate physical activity
Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation and improve bowel motility. Moderate exercise can help speed up bowel movements and reduce stress during bowel movements.
Recommended activities: walking, swimming, yoga and other gentle aerobic exercises.
Practice tip: Schedule at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every day.
Avoid sitting for long periods of time
Sitting for long periods of time not only increases pelvic floor pressure, but is also a major factor in the formation of hemorrhoids. Changing your work and lifestyle habits can significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
Work adjustments: Use a standing desk, or stand for 5 to 10 minutes per hour.
Life Hack: When watching TV or reading, get up and move regularly.
Personal hygiene habits
Keeping the anal area clean and dry is very important for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids.
Cleaning tip: Wash with warm water after each bowel movement and avoid using wipes that contain fragrance or alcohol.
Drying Technique: Pat dry gently to avoid irritation caused by wiping.
Through these lifestyle adjustments and self-management techniques, hemorrhoids patients can not only reduce existing symptoms, but also effectively prevent the recurrence of hemorrhoids. In addition, if symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek help from a doctor promptly. These practical suggestions will help patients with hemorrhoids improve their quality of life and take control of their condition.