Hemorrhoidal disease is a common health problem in the community and can negatively affect quality of life. Hemorrhoids are characterized by enlargement and swelling of the veins around the anus and rectum. This can often lead to symptoms such as discomfort, itching, pain and bleeding. Hemorrhoidal disease can be managed with a variety of treatment options ranging from lifestyle changes to surgical interventions.

Types of Hemorrhoidal Disease

Hemorrhoidal disease is usually divided into two groups: internal and external hemorrhoids:

1. Internal Hemorrhoids: They are located inside the rectum and are usually painless. However, it can manifest itself with symptoms such as bleeding during defecation.
2. External Hemorrhoids: Located around the anus and usually cause complaints such as pain, itching and swelling. These types of hemorrhoids show more prominent symptoms.

Causes of Hemorrhoidal Disease

Many factors play a role in the formation of hemorrhoids:

• Constipation and straining: Chronic constipation can cause excessive straining during defecation, which can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.
• Prolonged Sitting or Standing: It can lead to impaired blood circulation, causing dilation of the hemorrhoidal veins.
• Pregnancy: Increased pressure during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
• Aging: The weakening of connective tissues in the rectal and anal areas with age can facilitate the formation of hemorrhoids.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoidal Disease

Hemorrhoidal disease can manifest itself with different symptoms:

• Rectal bleeding (especially bright red blood)
• Itching and irritation around the anus
• Painful swelling or tenderness
• Discomfort during defecation

Diagnosis of Hemorrhoidal Disease

Hemorrhoidal disease is usually diagnosed by a doctor’s examination. Diagnostic methods such as anamnesis, physical examination and, if necessary, anoscopy may be used. In addition, colonoscopy may be recommended in some cases to rule out other underlying diseases.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoidal Disease

1. Lifestyle Changes:
   • Diet rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
   • Abundant water consumption
   • Increasing physical activity
2. Medical Treatments:
   • Topical creams and suppositories
   • Anti-inflammatory drugs
   • Painkillers
3. Minimally Invasive Methods:
   • Rubber band ligation: It allows hemorrhoids to shrink by cutting off the blood flow.
   • Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected to shrink hemorrhoidal veins.
   • Infrared coagulation: Heat is used to shrink hemorrhoidal tissues.
4. Surgical Interventions:
   • Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids in severe cases.
   • Stapler hemorrhoidopexy: Repositioning of hemorrhoidal tissue.

Hemorrhoidal Disease Prevention

• Eat a diet rich in fiber.
• Drink plenty of water to soften the consistency of the stool.
• Stimulate bowel movements by exercising regularly.
• Avoid staying in the toilet for too long.
• Avoid excessive pushing and straining.

Hemorrhoidal disease can be controlled with proper management and treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods improve the quality of life of patients. If you have complaints, you can consult a healthcare professional to learn the most appropriate treatment options.