If you search for hemorrhoids, it will give you thousands of articles, videos and social media posts, some will give you instant cures and someone will scare you that it is very serious and needs urgent surgery.
But what is actually true…..
Lets separate medical facts from internet myths so you can know what is actually right for you.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
It is also called piles, it is enlarged veins in the lower part of the rectum and around the anus.
There are two types hemorrhoids:
- Internal hemorrhoids: develops inside the rectum
- External hemorrhoids: develops outside the rectum
Many people may also suffer from:
- Bleeding after passing stool
- Itching or irritation around the area
- Pain while passing the stool
- Constipation
- Swelling or lump
- Difficulty in long time sitting
Now let’s discuss some common myths and try to know what’s the reality behind that myth.
Myth 1: Hemorrhoids can only be seen in older age
Reality
It can occur at any age, it is not age bounded condition
It can increase the risk as people get aged, young adults can also get piles or hemorrhoids.The major cause of getting piles at young age is sedentary lifestyle- spends long hours sitting, lifting heavy objects, having constipation from very long time and even in pregnancy.
Myth 2: Eating Spicy Foods can cause hemorrhoids
Reality
Spicy food cannot directly get you piles but it can be a major contributor to increased pain, bleeding and discomfort.
Major contributor of hemorrhoids are:
- constipation
- Low fiber diet
- obesity
- Pregnancy
- Long periods of sitting
- Repeated heavy lifting
Myth 3: bleeding after passing stool is a sign of hemorrhoids
Reality
If you observe any bleeding after passing stool you should not self examine and diagnose it as hemorrhoids, it should be always evaluated by a doctor
There are many conditions which can cause bleeding some of them are:
- Anal fissures
- Colon polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Colorectal cancer
Myth 4: Surgery is the only solution
Reality
It is not always necessary to go for surgery, many patients get better with conservative treatment and there are many other than surgery available which should be taken into consideration.
Many patients get better by conservative management, such as:
- Increasing fiber intake
- Drinking more water
- Improving habits to decrease constipation
- Using prescribed medications
- Avoiding excessive straining
Not every patient requires an operation, and treatment plans should always be after evaluating the patient.
Myth 5: External hemorrhoids disappear if pain and swelling is gone
Reality
If you have external hemorrhoids i.e swollen blood vessels outside the rectum then it cannot be only managed conservatively.
Symptoms like pain, swelling, irritation and bleeding can be solved but that doesn’t mean that your hemorrhoids are solved.
Proper evaluation should be done by the doctor whether you require any further treatment.
Myth 6: home remedies given by the internet can cure every case
Reality
Home care remedies can reduce the symptoms but cannot cure or treat the hemorrhoids.
Some home care remedies include:
- Warm sitz baths
- Eating more fiber
- Drink more water
- Regular physical activity
But there are scientifically unproven remedies which should not be followed. Proper research should be done before applying it to your routine.
Myth 7: If pain is not present that means it is not severe or it is normal
Reality
Pain is not present in every case.
If you have internal piles there might be absence of pain as there is less chances of pain but it always differ from patient to patient
If you observe any lump or inflamed blood vessel around your anal region you must contact to your consultant
Myth 8: hemorrhoids can turn into cancer
Reality
Hemorrhoids are not cancerous, so you should not worry that it can turn to cancer
Thus, a condition called colorectal cancer can also cause bleeding but it is not associated with piles.
WHEN YOU SHOULD VISIT A DOCTOR
DO NOT DELAY OR IGNORE SEEING DOCTOR IF YOU EXPERIENCE:
- Frequent or persistent rectal bleeding
- Severe anal pain
- A painful lump near the anus
- Symptoms that repeatedly return
- Long term constipation
- Rectal bleeding with unexplained weight loss
A proper examination helps confirm the diagnosis.
Advance treatment options
At bankers vascular hospital a detailed evaluation and examination is done and treatment is customized according to the patient’s severity of condition.
For suitable patients, advance minimally invasive treatment like hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE) is advised. This technique reduces the blood flow to the hemorrhoids, it is performed by passing a catheter through arteries. It helps in relieving symptoms without undergoing traditional surgery methods.
Final Thoughts
Piles is the most common condition but there is much misinformation on the internet. One should not blindly follow anything that shows on the internet.
Understanding the difference between myths and facts can help in making the decision that is right for you and your health.
Most cases are managed successfully if diagnosis is done early and accurately and treated properly.
At Bankers Vascular Hospital, we believe that every patient deserves evidence-based care, clear medical guidance, and access to the latest minimally invasive treatment options. Our team specializes in advanced vascular and interventional radiology procedures, offering personalized treatment plans designed to reduce discomfort, promote faster recovery, and improve long-term quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing early symptoms or seeking alternatives to traditional surgery, timely consultation with experienced specialists can make all the difference.