Treatment and Prevention of Hemorrhoids

When we talk about Hemorrhoids, we usually associate this concept with the appearance of a series of specific symptoms such as itching, pain, swelling, stinging and/or bleeding. However, in reality, Hemorrhoids are present in everyone, regardless of whether they exhibit these symptoms.^1-3

Hemorrhoids are blood vessels that are located in the rectum and around the anus. Their functions, in addition to irrigating this region of our body, are to assist in defecation and the containment of faeces.² Symptoms appear when these blood vessels and their adjacent tissues become inflamed or dilated.^3-5

Causes include: straining when defecating, especially in patients with chronic constipation; standing or sitting for long periods of time, which hinders blood return; excess weight; and the effort of childbirth and the pressure in the uterus on the perianal area in pregnant women.²

Is there anything I can do to prevent Hemorrhoids from appearing?

It is not always possible to prevent the appearance of Hemorrhoids. Not only do they depend on external factors, but they also include a hereditary component of genetic predisposition.⁵ In other words, if your parents suffer or had suffered from Hemorrhoids, there is a higher chance that you will also have to deal with them.

However, steps can be taken to prevent or at least delay their onset, such as losing weight and leading a healthy lifestyle with a diet that reduces the chance of constipation (drinking plenty of fluids and including foods that are rich in fibre).⁵ It also helps to not strain when defecating or exert excessive pressure when wiping with paper. As such, it is recommended to wash with water or use wipes instead.^3,5

Coffee, alcohol, tobacco and spicy foods may trigger the Hemorrhoidal symptoms. Therefore, you should be careful with their consumption, especially if you have a predisposition to suffering from Hemorrhoids.³ In situations when you need to stay in the same position for a long time, such as work, it is advisable to move around and take a short walk once every hour.³

Should I avoid exercise if I suffer from Hemorrhoids?

If you have Hemorrhoids, there is usually no need to avoid sports. The Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacies recommends 30 minutes of exercise a day for at least five days a week.³ However, it is true that there are certain activities, such as cycling or horse riding, that should be exercised with caution as they may worsen your condition.³

Treatment for Hemorrhoids

In addition to applying the same hygienic-dietary measures recommended to prevent the appearance of Hemorrhoids as mentioned above, it is recommended to take sitz baths with warm water for 10-15 minutes after bowel movements.⁶

There are also other pharmacological treatments sold in the market, available as pills and tablets or creams and ointments.