Hemorrhoids Symptoms, Self-Treatment, Surgery, Recovery Period, and Good Foods

I will provide information about hemorrhoid symptoms, self-treatment, surgery, recovery period, and good foods. Hemorrhoids are one of the diseases that are difficult to talk about with others. It is true that it is difficult to open up due to shame. For those who are struggling and experiencing limitations in their activities due to hemorrhoids, I will explain the details of hemorrhoid-related information, so I hope you will definitely recover.

Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Hemorrhoids (hemorrhoid)

Hemorrhoids refer to a condition where the tissues around the anus become swollen or inflamed. This occurs in the anal area, which is directly connected to the large intestine.

One of the main symptoms of hemorrhoids is pain or itching around the anus. Since hemorrhoids cause the tissues around the anus to swell, pressure on that area can cause pain. Also, if inflammation occurs, the area can become itchy and tingling.

Furthermore, hemorrhoids can cause swelling or edema around the anus. Edema occurs when hemorrhoids worsen, and the tissues around the anus swell, causing the opening to become larger and more swollen.

Also, hemorrhoids can cause bleeding around the anus or skin discoloration due to blood vessel damage. If constipation worsens, the stool becomes harder and puts pressure on the hemorrhoid area, leading to bleeding around the anus.

Bad Breath Causes, Severity, and Removal Methods

Hemorrhoids can lead to constipation. Pressure on the hemorrhoid area can worsen constipation, making the stool harder and irritating the hemorrhoid area. Therefore, constipation is one of the factors that exacerbates hemorrhoids.

Finally, hemorrhoids can cause pain during bowel movements. When the hemorrhoid area is under pressure, it can cause pain during bowel movements. This, like constipation, is one of the factors that worsens hemorrhoids.

If you experience these symptoms, you may suspect hemorrhoids. However, hemorrhoids are a disease that is not easy to diagnose, and a specialist's consultation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Hemorrhoid Self-Treatment

Hemorrhoids can sometimes be alleviated with self-treatment. Below, I will guide you through hemorrhoid self-treatment methods.

Firstly, preventing constipation is crucial. Constipation is one of the causes of hemorrhoids. Therefore, it is good to eat a diet rich in fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly.

Secondly, when hemorrhoids occur, you should keep the area around the anus clean. You can use soft objects or cold water to cool down the swollen area with cold water.

Thirdly, you can directly treat hemorrhoids using medication. You can reduce inflammation using anti-inflammatory or pain relievers, or you can use antibiotics. Creams or gels applied around the anus can also be effective.

Fourthly, applying heat can promote blood circulation, allowing hemorrhoids to recover more quickly. The temperature should be adjusted to avoid being too high.

Fifthly, you can use ice to cool the area around the anus and reduce inflammation. It's better to use ice wrapped in a cloth rather than placing it directly on the area around the anus.

However, if the symptoms are severe or persistent, you should visit a medical institution for treatment.

Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hemorrhoid surgery is usually performed using two main methods. The first is a method using injections to reduce hemorrhoids, generally recommended for patients who have undergone treatment. This method can be a good alternative for patients who do not require surgery or cannot undergo surgery.

The second method is surgery to directly remove hemorrhoids. This method is recommended for patients with moderate to severe untreated hemorrhoids. There are various surgical methods, but most surgeries use general anesthesia, and the surgery time usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Bad Breath Causes, Severity, and Removal Methods

There are various surgical methods for directly removing hemorrhoids, but the following are representative methods.

Ligation and Stripping

This method involves surgically removing varicose veins, one of the primary causes of hemorrhoids. The varicose veins around the hemorrhoids are tied off using specialized instruments, and then the entire varicose vein, along with the hemorrhoids, is removed.

Hemorrhoidopexy

This method involves removing hemorrhoids while preserving varicose veins. Hemorrhoids are fixed through the hemorrhoidopexy process. This method offers the advantages of smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialization (THD)

This method involves identifying the varicose veins around hemorrhoids and blocking the blood supply to the hemorrhoids by tying off the blood vessels of the identified varicose veins. This method has the advantages of a short surgery time and minimal pain.

Laser

The laser surgery method involves removing necrotic tissue and using a laser to irradiate the area around the varicose veins to remove hemorrhoids. This method has the advantages of less bleeding and smaller incisions during the surgery, resulting in a shorter recovery period. Furthermore, post-surgery pain is minimal, and fewer medications are required. Laser surgery does not require general anesthesia and can be performed with local anesthesia alone, enhancing patient safety. The surgery typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. After the surgery, patients should take appropriate pain relievers or antibiotics as instructed by the doctor. Additionally, it's essential to keep the surgical area clean and provide proper care.

Recovery Period

The recovery period after hemorrhoid surgery varies depending on various factors such as the surgical method, individual condition, and post-operative care, but it typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks.

During the first few days after surgery, you may experience pain or discomfort, and the surgical area may swell. If these symptoms persist, consult with your doctor for appropriate measures.

Generally, after surgery, you should refrain from physical activity for 2-4 weeks and rest in bed or a comfortable chair. After surgery, it is important to consume a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation. Also, light exercise or walking is recommended to prevent constipation. After surgery, you should receive check-ups and treatment at the hospital according to the scheduled appointments.

Foods Good for Hemorrhoids

High-fiber foods are good for hemorrhoids. High-fiber foods help prevent constipation and promote intestinal health. Below are examples of high-fiber foods that are good for hemorrhoids. Fruits: Apples, pears, peaches, persimmons, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.

Vegetables: Spinach, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, beans, green tea, radish, cucumber, bell peppers, tomatoes, etc. Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, peanuts, cashews, etc.

Grains: Oats, barley, rice, etc. Seeds: Sesame seeds, chili pepper seeds, flax seeds, etc. Also, good beverages for hemorrhoids include water, milk, yogurt, sweet and sour fruit juices, and herbal teas. However, foods that are harmful to hemorrhoids include spicy foods, greasy foods, alcohol, tobacco, and high-calorie foods. These foods can cause constipation or irritate the anus, worsening hemorrhoid symptoms, so it's best to avoid them.