Recurrent Hemorrhoids: 8 Causes, 5 Symptoms & 3 Treatments

Hemorrhoids are a recurrent condition that may cause infection, thrombosis, and incontinence. Straining during bowel movements contributes to their development. Dietary and lifestyle choices might play a role in the recurrence of hemorrhoids. Ultimately, this chronic condition can cause irritation, inflammation, and infection.

Recurrent hemorrhoids are common, and they can worsen over time and require surgical intervention. Hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective treatment for severe or recurrent cases of hemorrhoids.
Lifestyle factors and symptoms like discomfort, itching, and bleeding can contribute to their development. Untreated hemorrhoids can worsen, requiring medical or surgical intervention.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of recurrent hemorrhoids and discuss effective treatment options for recurrent hemorrhoids.

Recurrent Hemorrhoids: 8 Causes

Become familiar with the underlying causes of recurrent hemorrhoids, the painful swelling of the veins of the anus and lower rectum. Various factors contribute to their development, from sedentary lifestyles to low-fiber diets and chronic constipation. Explore the connection between lifestyle habits and medical conditions to understand this common ailment comprehensively.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Hemorrhoids are more likely to develop when you sit for long periods. When you sit for an extended period, the pressure on the veins in your anus and rectum increases, leading to swelling and inflammation.

Low-Fiber Diet

Low-fiber diets increase the risk of constipation, which puts stress on the veins of the rectum and causes hemorrhoids. Fiber-rich foods soften the stool, making it easy to pass and reducing constipation and hemorrhoids.

Chronic Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common cause of hemorrhoids. Frequent passage of loose or watery stools puts pressure on the anus veins, leading to inflammation and swelling.

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Overweight

Being overweight can worsen hemorrhoids, especially if you lead a sedentary lifestyle. Hemorrhoids develop when your anus and rectum are strained by excess body weight.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of hemorrhoids, with around 30-50% of pregnant women experiencing them during pregnancy. As the uterus grows, it pressures the pelvic veins, causing hemorrhoids to develop.

Aging

As you age, the tissue and muscles supporting your anus and rectum weaken, increasing the risk of developing hemorrhoids.

Chronic Constipation

Chronic constipation, characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool, can cause hemorrhoids because of the pressure on the anal veins.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients are at an increased risk of developing hemorrhoids because of chronic constipation or diarrhea.

Recurrent Hemorrhoids: 5 Symptoms

The lower rectum and anus are swollen with hemorrhoids. Recurrent hemorrhoids occur when hemorrhoids return after treatment or go away on their own. Here are the symptoms of recurrent hemorrhoids:

• Pain and discomfort: Recurrent hemorrhoids can cause considerable pain, discomfort, and itching in the anal region. The condition may worsen with prolonged sitting or standing. Opting for a position change or medication can help alleviate the discomfort.
• Bleeding: During bowel movements, bleeding can occur because of recurrent hemorrhoids. Sometimes, seeing small quantities of blood on toilet paper.
• Protrusion: Recurrent hemorrhoids may cause the veins in the anus to bulge out and protrude from the anus. The bubble can be painful and challenging when sitting, standing, or walking.
• Swelling: Recurrent hemorrhoids may cause swelling around the anus. This may make wearing tight clothing or sitting for long periods uncomfortable.
• Infection: Recurrent hemorrhoids can lead to disease if the veins in the anus and rectum become inflamed. Infection can cause fever, chills, and other symptoms.

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Diagnose for Recurrent Hemorrhoids

Diagnosing recurrent hemorrhoids involves a thorough physical examination, medical history review, and some diagnostic tests. Below are the steps involved in the diagnosis of recurrent hemorrhoids:

Physical Examination

When examining the anus and rectum, a healthcare provider looks for lumps or swelling. The rectum is concerned with a gloved, lubricated finger to detect abnormalities.

Hemorrhoid risk factors, symptoms, and medical history may be discussed during an examination.

Medical History

Any past episodes, family history of hemorrhoids, and any underlying medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and cancer, will be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Diagnostic Tests

Sometimes, additional tests may be necessary to diagnose recurrent hemorrhoids. These may include:

• Anoscopy: A narrow, bendable tube is passed into the digestive tract through the rectum and lower colon.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to an anoscopy, a longer tube can examine the entire colon.
• Colonoscopy: This is a more extensive exam that involves a longer tube that examines the entire colon.
• Other tests: Depending on the patient's symptoms and medical history, additional tests, such as stool or blood tests, may also be ordered to identify underlying conditions.

Treatment For Recurrent Hemorrhoids: 3 Methods

It is uncomfortable and embarrassing to suffer from recurrent hemorrhoids. Effective treatments can relieve symptoms and prevent future episodes. Choosing the proper treatment can take time and effort with many options. Before selecting a cure, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice.

Over-The-Counter Medications

Several over-the-counter medications are available to ease the symptoms of recurrent hemorrhoids. These medications include topical creams, ointments, suppositories, and pads containing ingredients such as hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or shark liver oil.

While over-the-counter medicines offer convenience, they may not relieve more severe cases and cause skin irritation in some people.

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Prescription Treatments

If over-the-counter treatments fail, the doctor may prescribe stronger medications to reduce inflammation and pain. A physician can prescribe sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, rubber band ligation, and electrocoagulation.

Prescription treatments can effectively manage symptoms but also cause allergies and increased bleeding.

Surgical Procedures

To manage recurrent hemorrhoids, surgical intervention may be necessary if other treatments fail. Hemorrhoids can be effectively removed with hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidsopexy.

Surgical procedures carry the most significant risk of complications, such as postoperative bleeding, infection, and recovery time.

Conclusion

Finally, recurrent hemorrhoids can be an embarrassment and a source of pain for anyone. With the correct information and prevention strategies, you can minimize their impact. Health habits, hygiene practices, and prompt medical attention can reduce the frequency and severity of hemorrhoids.

So, if you or someone you know is struggling with this condition, don't suffer in silence. Follow the advice given to ensure a pain-free and seamless life ahead. Remember, prevention is the key to managing and preventing recurrent hemorrhoids.