Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite their prevalence, haemorrhoids often carry a cloud of myths and misconceptions, due to the shroud of the stigma that covers this disease. According to researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine, almost half of the world’s population will have haemorrhoids by the age of 50.
Keeping that in mind, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Reddy Jyothsna, Head of Department and Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, to debunk haemorrhoid myths.
Myth: Hemorrhoids Only Affects The Elderly
Fact: Hemorrhoids can affect people of all ages, not just the elderly. Although ageing is a risk factor, there are a lot of factors that can cause haemorrhoids, informed Dr Reddy. "The prime reason is increased pressure in the lower rectum, the possible causes of which can be straining during bowel movements, frequent constipation or diarrhoea, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged sitting, sedentary lifestyle, dehydration, and a lack of dietary fibre,” she added.
Myth: Spicy Foods Cause Haemorrhoids
Fact: “Spicy foods can make bowel movements challenging as they can cause indigestion and loose stools or diarrhoea. However, they don't really cause haemorrhoids. Nevertheless, spicy foods can aggravate the symptoms of haemorrhoids, as it also contains Capsaicin which irritates the delicate tissues in the rectum, increasing discomfort, burning, and itching," debunked Dr Reddy.
Also Read: Can Spicy Foods Cause Haemorrhoids? Doctor States Facts
Myth: Hemorrhoids Are Always Painful
Fact: Dr Reddy shared, "Haemorrhoids are enlarged and inflammatory veins in the rectum or anus, often caused due to an increase in exerted pressure." But, haemorrhoids can vary in severity.
While a lot of people experience pain and discomfort, it's not necessary that your case will be the same. Dr Reddy shared that the symptoms of haemorrhoids can range from itching to pain and bleeding.
Myth: Hemorrhoids Are Always Visible
Fact: External haemorrhoids can be seen and felt around the anal area, but internal haemorrhoids are not visible. They may cause bleeding during bowel movements or cause the rectal muscle to go weak and fall outside the anus during straining.
Myth: Surgery Is the Only Treatment for Hemorrhoids
Fact: This is a common myth even though surgery is often the last resort for severe cases of hemorrhoids. In its early stages, haemorrhoids can easily be treated through lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, topical creams, and minimally invasive procedures, shared Dr Reddy.
Myth: Hemorrhoids Are Contagious
Fact: Hemorrhoids are not contagious. Dr Reddy underscored that haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area and cannot be transmitted through physical contact or exposure.
Myth: Hemorrhoids Will Always Recur After Treatment
Fact: If you follow healthy lifestyle practices, there is a huge chance that haemorrhoids will never recur. Haemorrhoid treatments can be effective, and many people experience long-term relief if they follow it religiously.
Also Read: Side-Effects Of Fibre: Here Are 7 Situations In Which Dietary Fibre Can Do More Harm Than Good
Myth: Hemorrhoids Are a Sign of Poor Hygiene
Fact: Hemorrhoids are not linked to poor hygiene. Dr Reddy said that they are primarily a result of factors like genetics, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Maintaining good hygiene is essential for overall health but does not directly prevent haemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are a common condition and hence should not be surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Stigma only brings undue embarrassment and shame that prevents people from seeking treatment on time, until their haemorrhoids have worsened to an extent that surgery or long-term precautions become necessary. That is why, by understanding the facts about haemorrhoids, you can better manage and seek appropriate treatment if necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about haemorrhoids, consult a healthcare professional for guidance and support without delay.