Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Regarding hemorrhoids?

Hello, doctor! I have some questions I would like to ask you! In the past, I used to have regular and complete bowel movements, but around the end of November last year, things suddenly changed.
It felt like I was experiencing constipation; although I still had daily bowel movements, they didn't feel as smooth as before, and I always felt like I wasn't completely emptying my bowels.
Initially, I thought it might be due to the change in weather, but later I realized it wasn't that simple.
During a physical education class, when we were running, I felt like something was stuck in my anus, but when I checked, I didn't see anything.
Then, around the middle of the month, when my menstrual period started, I noticed blood on the stool after flushing, but there was no blood on the toilet paper when I wiped.
From the end of November until now, I've experienced two similar situations, both unfortunately occurring during my menstrual period.
I couldn't determine if it was related to my period.
Around the end of December, I often felt like there was something protruding during bowel movements, but it would retract after I finished.
Sometimes, I also felt a fullness in my rectum, and I noticed a decrease in the frequency of passing gas, or I would have involuntary flatulence, which required some effort.
Additionally, whenever I sat down, I would experience pain in my buttocks, making it difficult to sit still, and sometimes my anus would itch.
I told my family about this, and they suggested it might be hemorrhoids, advising me to wash my buttocks with warm water after each bowel movement.
I followed their advice, and after a while, I no longer felt the sensation of something protruding during bowel movements, and they seemed cleaner, with less anal itching.
However, due to the recent summer vacation, I have been feeling restless again.
Although there hasn't been any blood in my stool, I still feel like my bowel movements aren't completely satisfying.
Logically, I should be considering hemorrhoids, but I still feel uneasy and would like to hear what the doctor has to say because I'm worried about developing something serious...
I know I have many bad habits that may contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, such as staying up late, using my phone while on the toilet, sitting on the toilet for long periods, and prolonged sitting.
However, I would rather think more about it; I'm really afraid of developing something strange.
I kindly ask the doctor to help clarify my concerns.
Thank you.

Yun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/21

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 17, it is unlikely to develop malignant tumors, so please do not worry excessively.
These symptoms are indicative of internal hemorrhoids.
I recommend that you improve your bowel habits, and this should naturally lead to improvement.
At your age, simply increasing your intake of dietary fiber and drinking plenty of water should suffice.
Avoid using your phone while having a bowel movement to expedite the process.
By addressing these poor habits, your issues should be resolved.

Reply Date: 2020/02/21

More Info

Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort and various symptoms. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for hemorrhoids can help alleviate concerns and guide you toward effective management.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on whether they are internal or external. Common symptoms include:
1. Bleeding: Bright red blood may appear on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement. This is often a primary concern for many individuals.

2. Pain and Discomfort: Hemorrhoids can cause pain, especially during bowel movements or when sitting. External hemorrhoids can be particularly painful if a blood clot forms.

3. Itching or Irritation: The area around the anus may become itchy or irritated, leading to discomfort.

4. Swelling: You may notice swelling around the anus, which can be sensitive to touch.

5. Feeling of Fullness: Some individuals report a sensation of fullness or pressure in the rectal area, which can be uncomfortable.

Causes of Hemorrhoids
Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids:
1. Straining During Bowel Movements: This is often due to constipation or diarrhea, leading to increased pressure on the veins in the rectal area.

2. Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the rectal veins.

3. Pregnancy: The increased pressure from the growing uterus and hormonal changes can lead to hemorrhoids.

4. Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic veins.

5. Aging: As we age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely.

6. Diet: A low-fiber diet can lead to constipation, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.

Treatment Options
Treatment for hemorrhoids often depends on the severity of the symptoms. Here are some common approaches:
1. Lifestyle Changes: Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help soften stools and reduce straining. Staying hydrated and exercising regularly can also promote healthy bowel movements.

2. Over-the-Counter Medications: Creams, ointments, and suppositories designed for hemorrhoid relief can help alleviate pain and itching. These often contain ingredients like hydrocortisone or witch hazel.

3. Warm Baths: Soaking in a warm bath for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help reduce discomfort and swelling.

4. Cold Compresses: Applying cold packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb pain.

5. Medical Procedures: If conservative treatments fail, medical procedures may be necessary. These can include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal of hemorrhoids.

When to Seek Medical Attention
While hemorrhoids are usually not serious, you should consult a healthcare provider if:
- You experience significant bleeding.

- Symptoms persist despite home treatment.

- You have severe pain or discomfort.

- You notice changes in bowel habits or stool consistency.

Conclusion
Your symptoms, including the feeling of incomplete bowel movements, discomfort, and occasional bleeding, align with common signs of hemorrhoids. It’s good to hear that you’ve implemented some home care strategies, such as warm water cleansing, which can be beneficial. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about other conditions, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough examination and determine the best course of action tailored to your needs. Remember, while lifestyle changes can significantly help, persistent or severe symptoms warrant further evaluation to rule out other potential issues.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment Options

When a doctor has a bowel movement, sometimes after passing a hard stool, they may feel a small round bump at the anal area, which is not present during softer stools. Could this be hemorrhoids? What are the prevention and treatment options?

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
Based on your description, it is likely a case of external hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are caused by the engorgement of blood vessels around the anus, which can lead to the formation of a soft, bulging mass when pressure increases during bowel movements. This mass may disappear when...

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello Dr. Ke! I work in a rural area of Japan, where medical care is not as convenient as in urban Taiwan. I have been struggling with a long-term hemorrhoid issue and would like to seek your advice. Here are the details: Lifestyle: I wake up in the morning and have a bowel mov...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If the endoscopy shows no abnormalities, the likelihood of polyps, tumors, or cancer is relatively low. However, poor bowel habits can indeed worsen the symptoms of hemorrhoids. It is recommended that you consult a proctologist or a gastroenterologist to correct your bowel habits...

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatments, and Surgical Options

Hello Dr. Li, I discovered I had hemorrhoids since high school. At that time, due to long periods of sitting on those wooden school chairs, I would sometimes develop a sizable hemorrhoid that would be painful. However, there was one occasion when I went to the bathroom and sudden...

Dr. Li Qinglong reply Surgery
Hello: It is not possible to determine whether it is hemorrhoids based on photos alone. Please consult a surgeon for a physical examination and assessment. Ointments can only relieve symptoms of redness, swelling, and heat. If the hemorrhoids are not severe, you may use the ointm...

Understanding Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, about a year ago I noticed a lump at the anal opening. At that time, I was experiencing severe constipation and it would bleed. Over the past year, I have slightly improved my constipation habits, and I haven't had any bleeding since. However, sometimes when I ...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
If internal hemorrhoids prolapse and require manual reduction, it is classified as grade III hemorrhoids. Conditions such as constipation, diarrhea, staying up late, and consuming spicy foods or alcohol can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms, making bleeding, swelling, and pain more ...