<Things you should know> Correct knowledge about hemorrhoids (2) Explanation of prevention and treatment methods for hemorrhoids Hemorrhoid prevention methods How to treat hemorrhoids Common concerns about hemorrhoids (Q&A) Could it be hemorrhoids?! Let's do a self-check. Are there ways to prevent hemorrhoids? Also, if you develop hemorrhoids, how should you deal with them? This article provides a detailed explanation under the supervision of a specialist in colorectal and anal diseases. A specialist also answers your common hemorrhoid concerns. Hemorrhoid prevention methods What precautions should you take to prevent hemorrhoids? Here are some common preventative measures. A lifestyle that prevents constipation and diarrhea <Things to Know> As mentioned in the section on the causes and symptoms of hemorrhoids, there are reports that constipation and diarrhea are causes of anal fissures and perianal abscesses, so maintaining regular bowel movements is important for prevention. Also, there are reports that hemorrhoids are more common in people who handle heavy objects or sit for long periods of time, and in people who do not have a vegetarian diet. Pay attention to the following: Active intake of water and dietary fiber Don't drink too much alcohol. Don't let mental stress build up. Avoid physical fatigue Avoid getting cold Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Get moderate exercise. Improving bowel habits There are reports that people who strain during bowel movements or sit on the toilet for long periods are more prone to developing hemorrhoids. Therefore, try to go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to defecate, and try to have a quick bowel movement without straining too much. Maintaining anal hygiene is also important. How to treat hemorrhoids Next, we'll discuss how to deal with hemorrhoids, categorized by type. In any case, it's best to avoid trying to treat them yourself and instead see a doctor as soon as possible. Hemorrhoids (piles) Hemorrhoids are divided into "internal hemorrhoids" and "external hemorrhoids," and internal hemorrhoids are further classified into grades I to IV depending on their size. Grades III and IV hemorrhoids are difficult to improve without surgical treatment, and surgical treatment is generally necessary if a complete cure is desired.The basics of treatment are the same as for prevention: avoid sitting for long periods, exposure to cold, and stress; limit alcohol consumption; and actively consume fluids and dietary fiber. When having a bowel movement, try to keep it short and avoid straining. Warming the affected area with a sitz bath (sitting with only the buttocks submerged in hot water) or a regular bath is also effective. While medication can alleviate swelling, pain, and bleeding, it has limitations as it doesn't eliminate hemorrhoids themselves, even after prolonged use.In the case of external hemorrhoids, swelling and discomfort can be reduced by using hemorrhoid ointment or taking sitz baths/baths for 2 to 4 weeks. If bleeding continues or pain is severe, surgical intervention may be necessary. Grade of internal hemorrhoids Anal fistula (anal fistula) Spontaneous healing of anal fistulas is rare, and surgery is generally performed. The symptoms that precede the development of an anal fistula are called "perianal abscesses," and in the case of perianal abscesses, treatment also involves incising the affected area and draining the pus. Anal fissure (tear-shaped hemorrhoid) Since many cases of anal fissures are caused by bowel problems such as constipation or diarrhea, regulating bowel movements is important. To combat constipation, avoid eating too much meat and ensure you get enough dietary fiber.In addition, anal fissures often cause pain and the formation of warts called "sentinel piles" around the anus, making it difficult to maintain anal hygiene. Therefore, it is important to maintain hygiene by taking baths or sitz baths.If these treatments are ineffective, if you experience severe symptoms that interfere with daily life, or if repeated anal fissures have caused narrowing of the anus, surgery will be performed. Common concerns about hemorrhoids (Q&A) We'll answer your questions about hemorrhoids. If I develop hemorrhoids, which type of doctor should I see? You should visit a hospital specializing in proctology or colorectal surgery. Some general surgery or gastrointestinal surgery departments may also be able to help. The Japanese Society of Clinical Proctology's website lists proctologists by prefecture, so it is recommended to visit a specialist near you. I'm a woman. I'm embarrassed to go to the doctor... Ignoring pain and bleeding can worsen symptoms and potentially necessitate surgery, so it's best not to self-diagnose. More and more hospitals are now performing examinations with the patient lying on their side (lateral decubitus position) and covering areas other than the affected area with a cloth.Additionally, some facilities have dedicated reception hours and waiting rooms for female patients, and some proctology clinics have female staff and female doctors, so try gathering information about these options. Is it possible for hemorrhoids to recur after being treated? There is a possibility of recurrence even after treatment. Poor lifestyle habits and dietary irregularities that worsen bowel movements increase the likelihood of recurrence. It is important to pay attention to the points mentioned in the prevention section. If surgery is necessary, will I have to be hospitalized? While hospitalization is generally required, some conditions can be treated with outpatient surgery. Outpatient surgery is possible only after pre-operative examinations determine that the patient is suitable for it, and if other conditions are met, such as being able to perform post-operative care independently and being able to handle emergencies. Anesthesia is administered to ensure it is effective during the surgery and allows the patient to return home afterward. After resting for about 1-2 hours, patients can usually go home.However, not all hemorrhoid conditions can be treated on an outpatient basis; this depends on the patient's understanding, the medical staff's circumstances, and the local healthcare situation. Could it be hemorrhoids?! Let's do a self-check. If you have any concerns about symptoms in your buttocks, try doing a self-check.Please use this self-check only as a reference, and if you have any concerns, consult a doctor. Pain and bleeding during bowel movements. The bleeding stops immediately after bowel movements and is bright red in color. Suspected disease Internal hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal polyps (rectal cancer) Sudden, painful swelling, redness, and fever around the anus. Suspected disease Perianal abscess Swelling, pain, and pus around the anus Suspected disease anal fistula Bleeding during bowel movements; the blood is dark and mucus-like. Suspected disease Colon cancer Blood and mucus are present during bowel movements, accompanied by diarrhea. Suspected disease Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease Loose stools/diarrhea accompanied by severe abdominal pain, bloody stools Suspected disease ischemic colitis Without any abdominal pain, I suddenly started having diarrhea with dark red blood. Suspected disease Bleeding from colonic diverticulum, colon cancer Large amounts of dark, tar-like stool are passed. Suspected disease Gastric and duodenal ulcers, stomach cancer Cauliflower-like warts appear around the anus, and similar symptoms can occur around the genitals. Suspected disease Genital warts Supervised by: Dr. Toshiaki Terada, Director of Terada HospitalAfter graduating from Tokyo Medical University, he completed a surgical residency at Mitsui Memorial Hospital and then gained extensive experience in various examinations, including endoscopy, at the Department of Gastroenterology at Kameda General Hospital. After working at Tokatsu Tsujinaka Hospital, he is currently the Chairman and Director of Terada Hospital. Terada Hospital Website We take care to post accurate information,Please point out any incorrect information. Please submit any comments regarding medical information here. Return to the list of guides categorized by health symptoms.