DOSSIER

  14/11/2021 | Antoine PANAITE

Ah, hemorrhoids. More than just embarrassing, right? Especially for a condition located in such a taboo place as the anus. And yet, solutions exist, and there's no shame in it. After the age of 50, one in two French people has already experienced them.

Whether internal or external, hemorrhoids can be very painful. In fact, everyone has hemorrhoids, but what we colloquially call "having hemorrhoids" is actually hemorrhoidal disease. Itching, irritation, and bleeding are the main symptoms of a hemorrhoid flare-up. Pain isn't always present but can be a complication of a prolonged flare-up. This can lead to hemorrhoidal thrombosis, which can occur either inside the anus or around its perimeter. While hemorrhoids themselves aren't dangerous, thrombosis can be. It can indeed ulcerate and bleed, causing intense pain that may require hospitalization.

So how can you effectively combat hemorrhoids?

First, pay attention to your diet. This is the best way to prevent flare-ups. Above all, absolutely avoid spicy foods and alcohol! The same goes for meat, coffee, and tea, which are risk factors. Opt for a healthy diet rich in fiber to avoid constipation, which is often the cause of hemorrhoid flare-ups. Drinking plenty of water, between 1.5 and 2 liters per day, is also recommended.

If these tips are not enough, or if you are suffering, drug treatments and even surgical procedures are available.

Generally, a simple treatment based on anti-inflammatories and analgesics in the form of an ointment or oral medication is often sufficient to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

But in cases of more severe symptoms, sclerotherapy injections or infrared photocoagulation may be prescribed, among other options. As a last resort, if the hemorrhoidal disease is very advanced, surgery may be considered.

If symptoms and pain persist, however bothersome they may be, don't hesitate to consult a doctor. They will guide you toward a suitable solution.

  Antoine PANAITE

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