Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Self-Care Methods. When to See a Doctor?

Is it Okay to Leave Hemorrhoids Untreated? First, Basic Knowledge You Should Know

According to data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the number of people who received medical examinations for hemorrhoids in 2017 was reported to be 11,700, but it is also said that including those who are aware and unaware, it accounts for more than one-third of the population. Symptoms tend to come and go in waves, and since they are rarely life-threatening, they are often left untreated. However, there are cases of iron-deficiency anemia due to bleeding, so caution is necessary. We often hear in the field, "It hurts, but it\\'s hard to go to the hospital," so we feel it\\'s important to first know what self-care measures you can take.

Types of Hemorrhoids and Signs That Warrant a Doctor Visit

Main Types

Broadly, there are "anal fissures (kireji)" and "hemorrhoids (iboji)." Anal fissures often cause severe pain due to tearing of the anus during bowel movements, while hemorrhoids are a type where blood vessels around the anus become congested and swell. Both can be accompanied by itching and bleeding.

Symptoms That Warrant a Doctor Visit

If you experience heavy bleeding, persistent bloody stools, severe pain, fever, difficulty with bowel movements, or sudden symptoms of anemia (dizziness, palpitations, etc.), seek medical attention immediately. Self-diagnosis is dangerous, as colon polyps or colon cancer can also cause bloody stools. The Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) also recommend seeking medical attention for bloody stools or persistent symptoms.

Self-Care You Can Start Today (Basics for Both Constipation and Diarrhea)

Be Mindful of Water and Fiber

Keeping stools soft is fundamental to improving hemorrhoids. Aim for about 8 glasses (about 2 liters) of water per day and increase your intake of dietary fiber (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes) for effectiveness. From our experience, focusing on water and fiber intake has shortened toilet time and alleviated symptoms.

Foods to Avoid

Be careful with cheese, snacks, fast food, processed foods, and ice cream, as they can harden stools or disrupt digestion. Spicy foods and fried foods can worsen symptoms, and some geefee staff felt improvement after reducing fried foods. However, there are individual differences, so please adjust based on how you feel after eating.

Review Your Toilet Habits

Avoid prolonged sitting, and it is important not to strain or hold back during bowel movements. Placing a stool under your feet and leaning forward (a squat-like posture) can facilitate smoother bowel movements. Also, aim for 5-10 minutes for toilet time and avoid using your smartphone for extended periods.

Local Care (Sitz Baths, Ointments, etc.)

Taking a sitz bath with lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day can improve blood circulation and provide relief. Over-the-counter steroid ointments, hemorrhoid suppositories, and witch hazel (commercial pads) can also temporarily relieve symptoms, but use them according to the instructions and avoid long-term use.

Lifestyle Improvements and Medical Options

Can Standing Work / Standing Desks Help?

Prolonged sitting can affect blood flow around the anus, so standing work and frequent standing are effective. Some people have found relief from symptoms by introducing a standing desk and changing their posture. Honestly, it\\\\'s not a panacea, but it\\\\'s worth trying for overall blood circulation improvement.

Medical Treatment Options (When and Which to Choose)

If self-care does not improve symptoms, or if bleeding or pain persists, consider treatment at a proctology clinic. Options include sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, and surgical excision (hemorrhoidectomy). Recently, some facilities offer cryotherapy, which may be chosen for external hemorrhoids, but it is important to consult with a doctor due to indications and risks of complications. Expert reviews also recommend choosing a treatment method based on symptoms and impact on daily life (refer to reviews by Sun & Migaly, Permanente Journal, and StatPearls).

Summary

Hemorrhoids are often neglected, but improvement can be expected with self-care such as adequate water and fiber intake, reviewing toilet habits, and sitz baths. Reducing spicy foods, fried foods, and processed foods can alleviate symptoms, though there are individual differences. Lifestyle adjustments like standing desks are also effective, and if self-care doesn\\\\'t help or if there is bleeding or severe pain, seek medical attention promptly. We have also gone through trial and error, and often found that the accumulation of small habits was more effective than expected. Try incorporating one thing you can do starting today.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.