MYTHS AND TRUTHS
ABOUT HEMORRHOIDS
Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the oldest diseases on record. It is one of the most frequent affections that affect the anal canal, affecting all genders and races, with a higher incidence in the fourth decade of life. for medical assistance. However, approximately 50% of the adult population may experience symptoms related to hemorrhoidal disease at some point in their lives.
Symptoms range from bleeding, pain, itching, perianal prolapse or nodulation, mucus leakage, discomfort or pressure in the anal canal, difficulty in evacuating and cleaning. More serious complications such as hemorrhoidal thrombosis may also occur.
For hemorrhoidal disease prevention and treatment, it is important to consume a diet rich in fiber and a good intake of water.
As for the modalities of surgical treatment, there is now a large therapeutic arsenal. The choice must be made between patients and medical staff.
There are many questions related to hemorrhoidal disease that are asked in the day to day of the office, which are worth clarifying:
Constipation - can both contribute to causing the development of hemorrhoidal disease and its aggravation;
Prolonged time on the toilet - Sitting on the toilet for a long time can contribute to the development and/or worsening of hemorrhoidal disease. May predispose to bleeding and hemorrhoidal thrombosis. Avoid taking reading material to the toilet;
Pepper - Pepper and other spices do not cause hemorrhoids, but they can increase discomfort in those who already have hemorrhoidal disease;
Anal sex - anal intercourse is not listed as a cause of hemorrhoidal disease. However, it can cause other complications such as anal fissure, or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs);
Pregnancy - pregnancy can predispose to the development of hemorrhoidal disease, due to increased abdominal volume and decreased venous return;
Alcoholic beverage - does not cause hemorrhoidal disease, but in those who already have the disease and present symptoms or complications of it, their condition may worsen;
Physical activity - Weight training or excessive physical effort are not factors that cause the disease, but they can contribute to its development in people who are already predisposed to its formation, or worsen symptoms in periods when the disease is active. Medical guidance is required for treatment and to proceed with physical activities without discomfort;
Toilet Paper – despite being the most used item nationally for cleaning the anal region after evacuation, it can cause minor trauma, anal discomfort, itching, worsen hemorrhoidal disease, in addition to ineffective cleaning. It is recommended to wash with soap and water. In cases where it is impossible to wash, use a moist tissue.
Remember: it is very important to maintain healthy habits, with a balanced diet rich in fiber, good daily water intake, regular physical activity, in addition to following the hygiene guidelines.
"If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, or any other questions, see your doctor for a proper evaluation."

Dr. Pedro Ivo Calegar
General Surgery - Coloproctology
CRM/MT6419 | RQE 3414 | RQE 5528
• Member of the Brazilian Society of Hyperbaric Medicine;
• Member of the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology.