What Should You Do If You Have Hemorrhoids?

Before answering your question: "What should you do if you have hemorrhoids?"  Let’s first begin by defining hemorrhoids. In fact, we are all born with hemorrhoids, and the ones naturally present in our bodies usually do not cause any problems. However, in some cases they can worsen. This is when we experience what is called hemorrhoids, also known as “piles.”

What should you do if you have hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins located in the lower part of the rectum or around the anus. 

This condition is usually caused by constipation resulting from a diet high in solid foods, sitting for long periods on the toilet, straining during bowel movements, and lack of physical activity. 

The enlarged and inflamed veins associated with hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, pain, itching, or bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

Hemorrhoids are more common in people over 45, but they can occur at any age. 

There are generally two types of hemorrhoids, and the level of pain depends on the type. 

Although they can be uncomfortable and sometimes alarming, most hemorrhoids are not dangerous, and early-stage hemorrhoids can usually be treated with medical creams or lifestyle changes.

What types of hemorrhoids are there?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located around the anus or beneath the rectum. The types vary depending on location and severity. Understanding the type and stage of hemorrhoids is essential, as it guides treatment.

Hemorrhoids are classified as follows:

1. Internal hemorrhoids: Develop inside the rectum and are usually painless, but may cause bleeding during bowel movements. In advanced stages, they may protrude from the anus (prolapse). In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

2. External hemorrhoids: Located under the skin around the anus. These can cause pain, swelling, itching, and sometimes bleeding. They are generally treated with ointments and lifestyle changes.

3. Prolapsed hemorrhoids: Internal hemorrhoids that extend outside the anus. Depending on the degree, they may retract on their own, be pushed back manually, or remain outside.

4. Thrombosed hemorrhoids: Occur when a blood clot forms inside a hemorrhoid, causing severe pain and significant swelling. These usually require surgical intervention and should be treated promptly.

What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience significant discomfort. Common symptoms include:

Bleeding, usually bright red, on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on stool

Itching or irritation in the anal area

Pain or discomfort (especially with external hemorrhoids; not common in early internal hemorrhoids)

Swelling around the anus

A tender or painful lump near the anus (especially with external or thrombosed hemorrhoids)

When hemorrhoids become chronic or more severe, symptoms can disrupt daily life and require medical care.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids usually occur due to increased pressure in the lower rectum. This pressure causes the veins in the anal area to enlarge, swell, and become inflamed. 

What causes this pressure?

The most common causes are:

Excessive straining on the toilet

Chronic constipation caused by a diet high in solid foods

Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet

Low-fiber diet, which causes hard stools

Being overweight, which increases pressure on pelvic veins

Pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and increased pressure from the uterus

Aging, as the tissues supporting the rectal and anal veins weaken over time

A genetic predisposition and a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute. For hemorrhoids that are not advanced, improving these factors can help significantly.

Which doctor should you see for hemorrhoids?

If you have persistent or severe hemorrhoid symptoms, you should see a healthcare professional. The appropriate specialist depends on the initial evaluation:

1. General Practitioner: A good first step for a basic exam, diagnosis, and at-home treatment recommendations.

2. Gastroenterologist: Specializes in digestive system disorders. They may order more detailed tests, such as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, especially if rectal bleeding is involved.

3. Proctologist (Colorectal Surgeon): Specializes in rectal and anal disorders and handles more severe or persistent cases that may require surgery.

It's important to distinguish hemorrhoid symptoms from other conditions. Symptoms of colon cancer can sometimes resemble hemorrhoids, so medical evaluation is essential.

What treatments are available for hemorrhoids?

Treatment depends on the type and severity. In most cases, especially early on, conservative and non-surgical treatments work very well.

1. Lifestyle and dietary changes: Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding straining, exercising regularly, and losing weight can significantly reduce symptoms.

2. Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories help relieve pain, itching, and inflammation.

3. Sitz baths: Sitting in warm water for 10–15 minutes several times a day, especially after bowel movements, soothes the anal area.

4. Minimally invasive procedures: If symptoms persist, the doctor may perform rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation.

5. Surgery: For large or persistent hemorrhoids, surgical removal (hemorrhoidectomy) or stapled hemorrhoidopexy may be needed.

A combination of treatments may be recommended depending on your condition.

What helps relieve hemorrhoids?

Besides medical treatment, you can help ease symptoms and prevent recurrence with these habits:

1. Eat a high-fiber diet: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.

2. Increase fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water reduces constipation.

3. Avoid sitting for long periods or straining: Especially on the toilet, as it increases pressure on rectal veins.

4. Maintain proper hygiene: Clean the anal area gently with water or moist wipes after each bowel movement.

5. Apply a cold compress: Helps reduce swelling and pain.

6. Try natural remedies: Witch hazel, aloe vera, and other mild anti-inflammatory ingredients can soothe symptoms when applied topically.

If symptoms do not improve with home care, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Last updated: 28-11-2025

Medical Sources

Mayo Clinic – Hemorrhoids (Piles): Symptoms and Causes

Cleveland Clinic – Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Hemorrhoids

American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) – Hemorrhoids

MedlinePlus – Hemorrhoids

Johns Hopkins Medicine – Hemorrhoids