Overview
In this section you will get an overview of the condition and its relevance to your health.
Hemorrhoids are a very common problem -- and yet a taboo topic for many affected individuals. However, hemorrhoids are initially entirely normal: every person has hemorrhoidal cushions that help with fine sealing of the rectum.
Only when these cushions become enlarged or cause symptoms does one colloquially speak of "hemorrhoids." Typical symptoms include itching, burning, moisture, or bright red blood on toilet paper.
The good news: hemorrhoids can be treated well in most cases -- often lifestyle measures and topical medications are sufficient. A medically supervised online consultation can also help select the right therapy and rule out warning signs.
What is it?
Here you will learn what medically characterizes this condition and how it is defined.
The hemorrhoidal cushion is a vascular pad in the anal canal. It helps seal the intestine. When this cushion becomes enlarged, it can cause symptoms.
Grades are distinguished:
- Grade I: enlarged, not visible, usually bleeding
- Grade II: protrudes during straining, retracts spontaneously
- Grade III: must be pushed back manually
- Grade IV: permanently prolapsed
Besides hemorrhoids, other causes can produce similar symptoms, e.g., anal fissures or inflammation.
Causes
The following information explains which factors can contribute to the development of this condition.
Increased pressure in the rectal area is often the underlying cause.
Constipation and straining are central triggers. Hard stools and prolonged sitting on the toilet increase pressure.
Other risk factors:
- Lack of physical activity
- Overweight
- Pregnancy
- Low-fiber diet
- Chronic diarrhea
- Heavy physical exertion
Multiple factors often contribute simultaneously.
Symptoms
This section describes the typical signs and symptoms you should watch for.
Typical symptoms:
- Bright red blood on toilet paper
- Itching, burning
- Moisture/soiling
- Sensation of pressure, feeling of a foreign body
- Pain (common with inflammation/thrombosis or fissure)
Warning signs (seek medical evaluation):
- Heavy or recurring bleeding
- Black stool (tarry stool)
- Weight loss, fever
- New symptoms at older age without clear cause
- Severe pain or lumps (possible thrombosis)
Diagnosis
Below you will learn how this condition is detected through medical examinations.
Diagnosis is made through medical history and examination of the anal area. A proctoscopy/anoscopy is often useful to reliably identify the cause of bleeding.
As part of an online consultation, symptoms and warning signs can be assessed and initial therapy recommended. For bleeding or unclear findings, an in-person examination is recommended.
Treatment
Here the available therapy options and their modes of action are explained.
Treatment depends on the severity grade.
Basic measures:
- More fiber (e.g., psyllium husk)
- Adequate fluid intake
- Less straining, short toilet times
- Regular exercise
Topical therapy:
- Hemorrhoid ointments or suppositories (e.g., with local anesthetics, anti-inflammatory agents)
- Sitz baths (lukewarm)
Systemic support:
- Flavonoids (e.g., diosmin) may help with certain symptoms
For higher grades, proctological procedures may be necessary (rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, surgery) -- medical decision.
Available medications
Various prescription medications are available for treatment. Click on a medication to learn more about its effects, dosage and side effects.
DoloPosterine® (Bufexamac/Lidocain)
Bufexamac / Lidocainhydrochlorid
Doloproct® (Fluocortolon/Lidocain)
Fluocortolonpivalat / Fluocortolonhexanoat / Lidocainhydrochlorid
Jelliproct® (Fluocinolonacetone/Lidocaine)
Fluocinolonacetonid / Lidocainhydrochlorid
Rectogesic® (glycerol trinitrate)
Glyceroltrinitrat (Nitroglycerin)
Prevention
This section provides guidance on prevention and reducing risk factors.
Prevention:
- Keep stools soft (fiber, fluids)
- Exercise
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet and straining
Early action frequently prevents worsening.
FAQ
Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions on this topic.
Would you like a medical assessment?
Fill out the medical questionnaire. A licensed doctor will review your information and recommend a suitable therapy if appropriate.
Important notice
This content is for general information only. In case of severe pain, shortness of breath, impaired consciousness, fever > 39°C or rapidly worsening symptoms, please seek immediate medical help ().
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