“Sitting is the new smoking,” they say—but who knew it could lead to hemorrhoids? For one man, endless scrolling sessions on the toilet turned into a lesson he’d never forget. After undergoing surgery to remove painful hemorrhoids, he swore off taking his phone to the bathroom forever. It’s a cautionary tale that highlights an often-overlooked cause of this uncomfortable condition.
But toilet scrolling isn’t the only factor. Hemorrhoids affect millions, and their causes are as diverse as their symptoms. Let’s explore how they develop, how to treat them, and, most importantly, how to keep them at bay.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and even bleeding. They’re surprisingly common, affecting up to 75% of adults at some point. While mild cases often resolve on their own, severe ones may require medical intervention.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms vary depending on the type and severity, but here’s what to watch out for:
- Itching or irritation: Persistent discomfort around the anus.
- Pain: Particularly during bowel movements.
- Bleeding: Bright red blood may appear on toilet paper or in the stool.
- Lumps: External hemorrhoids often result in noticeable bumps.
- Swelling: Inflamed veins can feel tender.
- Fecal leakage: In severe cases, stool might leak unintentionally.
Types of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids come in three main varieties:
- Internal: Located inside the rectum. These are usually painless but may bleed or prolapse.
- External: Found under the skin around the anus. These tend to be more painful and may cause swelling.
- Thrombosed: A blood clot forms within a hemorrhoid, leading to severe pain and significant swelling.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids develop when increased pressure causes veins in the rectum or anus to swell. Common culprits include:
- Straining: Often due to constipation.
- Prolonged sitting: Especially on hard surfaces like toilet seats.
- Chronic diarrhea: Frequent bowel movements strain the area.
- Pregnancy: The growing uterus increases pressure on pelvic veins.
- Obesity: Extra weight places strain on veins.
- Low-fiber diet: Leads to harder stools and more straining.
- Heavy lifting: Repeated straining during physical activities.
- Aging: Weakens tissue support around the rectum.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them
Ignoring hemorrhoids can lead to complications:
- Anemia: Chronic blood loss from bleeding hemorrhoids.
- Thrombosis: Blood clots in hemorrhoids cause intense pain.
- Anal prolapse: Persistent hemorrhoids may stretch and bulge outside the anus.
- Fissures and fistulas: Tears or abnormal connections in the anal area.
Treatment Options
Mild cases can often be managed at home, but more severe instances may need medical help.
Home Remedies
- Eat more fiber: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help soften stools.
- Stay hydrated: Prevents constipation.
- Use topical treatments: Creams and suppositories can reduce swelling and irritation.
- Take sitz baths: Soak in warm water for 10–15 minutes to relieve discomfort.
Medical Interventions
- Rubber band ligation: A band cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
- Sclerotherapy: Injecting a solution that shrinks hemorrhoids.
- Surgery: Reserved for severe or recurring cases.
Prevention Tips You Can Start Today
Prevention is key. Small changes can make a big difference:
- Avoid straining: Listen to your body’s natural urges and go when needed.
- Increase fiber: Aim for 25–30 grams daily.
- Exercise regularly: Staying active promotes healthy digestion.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Reduces pressure on pelvic veins.
- Break the bathroom-scrolling habit: Your phone can wait.
A Final Word
Hemorrhoids are a pain—literally. But with smart lifestyle adjustments, they’re entirely preventable. Keep your fiber intake high, stay active, and ditch those long bathroom sessions with your phone.
By making these simple changes, you’ll save yourself from a lot of unnecessary discomfort. Your bathroom time should be quick, efficient, and phone-free. Take control of your health and keep hemorrhoids off your worry list.
