How To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids

Talking With Docs
6 Oct 202313:53
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDRThe video script discusses hemorrhoids, a common condition involving swollen veins in the perianal area. Dr. K, a general surgeon and expert in hemorrhoids, explains that they are not age-restricted to children and can be exacerbated by certain behaviors. Symptoms typically include pain and bleeding, but can also be painless. The doctor emphasizes the importance of a bowel regimen, particularly increasing fiber intake to 30-40 grams per day, and avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet. Conservative management is usually the first approach, with 95% of cases improving with a good bowel regimen and supportive treatments. For persistent cases, surgical interventions such as banding for internal hemorrhoids or excision for external ones may be necessary, although these carry a risk of being painful and requiring a recovery period. The video concludes with a reminder that prevention is key, and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can prevent the onset of hemorrhoids.

Takeaways
  • 🩸 A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein in the perianal area that can cause bleeding and pain.
  • 👶 Hemorrhoids are uncommon in children and more related to age, where veins can slowly fail over time.
  • 📈 The most common symptoms of hemorrhoids are pain and bleeding, although some may be painless.
  • 🕰 Pain can be activity-related and depends on the severity of the hemorrhoid; thrombosed hemorrhoids cause constant pain.
  • 👩‍⚕️ Doctors diagnose hemorrhoids through history taking, physical examination, and possibly an anoscopy to rule out other conditions like cancer.
  • 🌿 Increasing fiber intake to 30-40 grams per day is crucial for preventing and treating hemorrhoids.
  • 🚽 Avoid sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods as it exacerbates hemorrhoids by increasing blood pooling.
  • 🍓 Consuming more fruits and vegetables can help increase fiber intake naturally.
  • 🧪 Fiber supplements can also be used if dietary fiber is insufficient.
  • 🩹 Conservative management, including fiber and certain creams like those with witch hazel, can help alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms in most cases.
  • ⏱️ Recovery from hemorrhoid surgery can be painful and may require 4 to 6 weeks of downtime, emphasizing the importance of prevention and non-surgical treatments.
Q & A
  • What is a hemorrhoid?

    -A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein in the perianal area that fills up with blood, potentially causing bleeding and pain. It can stretch out the skin near the anus and create a lump or mass.

  • Who is more likely to get hemorrhoids?

    -Hemorrhoids are not common in children and are more prevalent with age, as the veins can slowly fail over time. They can affect anyone, but certain behaviors and conditions can contribute to their formation.

  • What are the typical symptoms of hemorrhoids?

    -The most common symptoms are pain and bleeding. However, some hemorrhoids can be painless with just bleeding, depending on their anatomical presentation.

  • How can one determine if they have a hemorrhoid?

    -A physical examination by a doctor, which may include an inspection and a rectal examination, can help determine the presence of hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids may not be visible without an anoscopy.

  • What is the first line of treatment for hemorrhoids?

    -The initial treatment usually involves conservative management, including a good bowel regimen and certain supportive treatments. Increasing fiber intake is a key part of this approach.

  • Why is fiber important in treating hemorrhoids?

    -Fiber helps to bulk up the stool, making it easier to pass and reducing the strain during bowel movements, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids. Aiming for 30 to 40 grams of fiber per day is recommended.

  • What can be done while waiting to see a doctor?

    -Over-the-counter creams containing ingredients like witch hazel, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort, can be used. It's also important to avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet.

  • What is the significance of not sitting for long periods on the toilet?

    -Sitting for too long on the toilet can increase the pooling of blood in the hemorrhoids, worsening the condition. It's recommended to make bathroom visits quick and focused.

  • What happens if conservative treatments do not work for hemorrhoids?

    -If symptoms persist after trying fiber and other conservative treatments, medical procedures such as rubber band ligation (for internal hemorrhoids) or surgical excision (for external hemorrhoids) may be considered.

  • What does recovery from hemorrhoid surgery entail?

    -Recovery can be painful and may require taking time off from work and avoiding hard seating for about four to six weeks. The recovery period can vary between individuals.

  • How can one prevent getting hemorrhoids?

    -Prevention includes increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, not straining during bowel movements, and avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet. Maintaining these habits as one ages is also important.

Outlines
00:00
😀 Understanding Hemorrhoids and Their Symptoms

The first paragraph introduces the topic of hemorrhoids, emphasizing their commonality and the potential for confusion with the term 'roids.' Dr. K, a general surgeon and hemorrhoid expert, explains that hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the perianal area that can cause bleeding and pain. The discussion clarifies that hemorrhoids are not exclusive to children and are more prevalent with age. Symptoms typically include pain and bleeding, but some hemorrhoids can be painless. The paragraph also touches on the importance of medical examination, including a history take and physical examination, to diagnose hemorrhoids and rule out other conditions like cancer.

05:02
🍽️ Conservative Management and Lifestyle Changes for Hemorrhoids

The second paragraph focuses on the conservative management of hemorrhoids, stating that 95% of cases can be improved with a good bowel regimen and supportive treatments. It emphasizes the importance of fiber intake, aiming for 30 to 40 grams per day, and suggests various forms of fiber supplements. The paragraph also addresses the use of creams containing witch hazel to alleviate swelling and pain. A key piece of advice is to avoid sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods, as this can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms. The doctor recommends trying nonoperative methods first, setting a timeframe for improvement, and only considering surgery if symptoms persist after several months.

10:04
🩺 Surgical Interventions and Recovery for Persistent Hemorrhoids

The third paragraph discusses surgical options for the remaining 5% of hemorrhoid cases that do not improve with conservative management. It differentiates between internal and external hemorrhoids, noting that internal ones can be treated with banding, which involves placing an elastic band around the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, may require excision or surgical removal if they are thrombosed or infected. The recovery from surgery is described as painful and lengthy, with a period of incapacity lasting up to four to six weeks. The paragraph concludes with a reminder of the importance of preventive measures, such as increasing fiber intake and avoiding prolonged toilet sitting, to avoid developing hemorrhoids in the first place.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort and bleeding. They are a common condition, particularly in adults, and are not typically found in children. In the video, hemorrhoids are the central topic, with discussions on their causes, symptoms, and treatments.
💡Pain and Bleeding
These are the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids. Pain is often felt around the anus, and bleeding may occur during bowel movements. The script mentions that while pain and bleeding are typical, some hemorrhoids can be painless with only bleeding as a symptom.
💡Physical Exam
A physical exam is a method used by doctors to diagnose potential health issues. In the context of hemorrhoids, a physical exam may involve inspecting the perianal area for lumps or swollen veins and conducting a rectal examination to rule out other conditions like cancer.
💡Conservative Management
This refers to non-surgical treatments for hemorrhoids that focus on lifestyle changes and supportive care. The video emphasizes that 95% of people can improve their condition through conservative management, primarily by improving bowel habits and increasing fiber intake.
💡Fiber
Fiber is a crucial component of a healthy diet, particularly for preventing and treating hemorrhoids. It helps to add bulk to stool, making bowel movements easier and reducing strain. The video recommends aiming for 30 to 40 grams of fiber per day, suggesting products like fiber buds and gummies for those who struggle to get enough fiber from diet alone.
💡Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a plant extract that has astringent properties and is used in some creams to help reduce swelling and discomfort from hemorrhoids. The script mentions witch hazel as an ingredient in products like Tucks pads, which can provide relief by drawing out swelling.
💡Banding
Banding is a medical procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. It involves placing a small elastic band around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off. The video explains that banding is a common treatment for internal hemorrhoids that are not painful but cause bleeding.
💡Excision
Excision is a surgical procedure where the doctor removes external hemorrhoids or skin tags left behind after a hemorrhoid has healed. The video mentions excision as a treatment option for external hemorrhoids, noting that it can be painful and require a significant recovery period.
💡Recovery
Recovery refers to the period after a medical procedure or surgery when the body heals. In the context of hemorrhoid surgery, recovery can be lengthy and involve discomfort, with the video suggesting a recovery time of four to six weeks and advising against sitting on hard surfaces during this period.
💡Bowel Movement Hygiene
This concept, introduced in the video, refers to the habits and practices one should follow to maintain healthy bowel movements and prevent conditions like hemorrhoids. It includes recommendations to increase fiber intake, avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet, and maintain regular bowel movements.
💡Prolonged Toilet Sitting
Sitting on the toilet for extended periods can exacerbate hemorrhoids by increasing the pooling of blood in the affected veins. The video advises against this behavior, suggesting that individuals should make their time in the bathroom more directed and avoid activities like watching movies or playing games while on the toilet.
Highlights

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the perianal area that can cause bleeding and pain.

They are common and typically not a concern in children, being more related to age.

Pain and bleeding are the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids, but some may be painless.

The pain can be activity-related and depends on the severity of the hemorrhoid.

A physical examination, including inspection and possibly a rectal examination, is part of diagnosing hemorrhoids.

Eating a high-fiber diet is crucial for preventing and treating hemorrhoids.

Fiber supplements can be used if dietary fiber intake is insufficient.

Avoid sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods to prevent hemorrhoid worsening.

Conservative management, including a good bowel regimen, can help 95% of people improve their condition.

Witch hazel can be used in creams to reduce swelling and pain associated with hemorrhoids.

Internal hemorrhoids can be treated with rubber band ligation to cut off blood supply.

External hemorrhoids may require surgical removal, which can be painful and have a longer recovery time.

Surgical intervention is usually a last resort when conservative treatments fail.

Increasing fiber intake and not prolonging toilet visits are key preventive measures against hemorrhoids.

A colonoscopy is recommended if there's bleeding to rule out other potential issues like cancer.

Recovery from hemorrhoid surgery can take from four to six weeks, with discomfort and limited activities.

Maintaining a healthy bowel movement hygiene is essential for hemorrhoid management and prevention.

Transcripts
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