Hemorrhoids: Types, Stages, and Prevention

In the previous article, we discussed what hemorrhoids are, and examined the symptoms and causes of their occurrence. In this current material, we will continue to explore this condition. We will look at the types and stages it can have, discuss preventive measures, and determine how to recognize the presence of hemorrhoids.

Stages of the Condition

Depending on the severity of the condition and the stage of development, there are four stages of hemorrhoids:

Hemorrhoids Stage 1

The first stage includes the occurrence of blood streaks during defecation, complaints of slight discomfort, aching and pressing pain in the anus increasing after physical activity or prolonged saturation, and after defecation. 

Hemorrhoids Stage 2

The second stage happens when the nodes are already enlarged, edematous, and periodically dropping out, but they can still be self-replaced into the intestinal lumen. Discomfort is more pronounced, both when resting and moving, and there is often a feeling of a foreign body in the rectum.

Hemorrhoids Stage 3

During the third stage, the nodes drop out more frequently, even when you push lightly, during exercise or defecation. The nodes are difficult to straighten or do not straighten at all. Rectum muscles weaken. Bleeding becomes more frequent and more severe, and the pain increases, affecting your professional and social activities. A fear of defecation arises.

Hemorrhoids Stage 4

The fourth stage presents significant dystrophy of the anus and nearby tissues. The nodes drop out frequently or permanently and do not straighten out on their own. Bleeding from the anus is frequent and heavy. Complications may develop in the form of par proctitis and/or infection. Constant pain, which will increase during sitting, walking, or minimal physical activity.

What are the Types of Hemorrhoids?

Chronic and acute hemorrhoids are differentiated. The term acute hemorrhoids are generally used to describe a condition in which both thrombosis and inflammation of the vascular wall (phlebitis) occur at the same time, within a short period of time. Without treatment, the disease can progress to chronic hemorrhoids. It can last for months or years. 

Preventing Hemorrhoids

To avoid the development of hemorrhoids, you should take the following preventative measures:

• A healthy diet (keep a drinking regime, eat a lot of vegetables and fiber, and reduce the amount of spicy and fatty foods in the diet).

• Maintain an active lifestyle (with sedentary work, standing up every 30 minutes, walking around the room, or doing some sit-ups).

• Exercise regularly.

• Keep the hygiene of the genitals and anus.

• Use lubricants during anal sex, and avoid rough and painful actions.

How to Tell if You Have Hemorrhoids?

To diagnose hemorrhoids, it is necessary to consult a proctologist. The doctor questions the patient examines the anal area, and conducts a digital rectal examination. The proctologist can identify obvious symptoms of hemorrhoids and conclude the existence of hemorrhoids even during the first examination. Colonoscopy and recto sigmoidoscopy is used to confirm the diagnosis and identify the form and stage of the disease.