As temperatures suddenly drop, the risk of developing hemorrhoids increases. Here’s a closer look at hemorrhoids and what to know about managing them.
Hemorrhoids are particularly affected by colder weather. Data from South Korea’s Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service shows that the number of hemorrhoid patients typically decreases during the summer months of August and September, then rises again in October, peaking in mid-winter in January.
The term “hemorrhoids” encompasses several conditions affecting the anal area, including piles, anal fistulas, and anal bleeding. Typically, however, when people speak of hemorrhoids, they are referring to piles—lumps formed by blood vessels and connective tissue around the anus, which can protrude or bleed.
Piles are categorized into two types: internal hemorrhoids, which occur in the upper part, and external hemorrhoids, which appear in the lower part. External hemorrhoids remain outside the anus, while internal hemorrhoids may protrude during bowel movements or straining but retract afterward.
The primary causes of piles include abnormalities in the anal blood vessels and poor blood circulation. Cold weather can worsen these conditions by increasing pressure in the anal veins, causing capillaries to swell. This can lead to stretching of the skin and blood vessels, often resulting in protrusion or bleeding.
Treatment options for piles vary, but improving lifestyle habits should be the first approach. Dr. Young Kyu Cho, Head of the Surgery Department at Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, advises that while over-the-counter oral medications and ointments can be effective for acute cases, they don’t offer significant long-term benefits.
Avoiding constipation is crucial for those suffering from hemorrhoids. Drinking plenty of water and consuming fiber-rich fruits and vegetables can help keep stools soft.
Healthy bowel habits are also essential. Avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods, and consider taking a warm sitz bath for 2 to 3 minutes after bowel movements. Try regular sphincter exercises to improve blood circulation if sitting for long durations. Limiting alcohol and managing stress are also beneficial.
Dr. Cho advises, “Hemorrhoids are rarely an emergency, so surgery should be considered a last resort. If non-surgical methods prove ineffective, or if prolapsed hemorrhoids require manual reduction and significantly disrupt daily life, surgery may be an option to improve quality of life.”
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