First... What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are simply swollen veins that appear in the rectal and anal area, similar to varicose veins seen in the legs. This condition occurs due to increased pressure in the veins there, often caused by chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, or even pregnancy and childbirth.

There are two types of hemorrhoids:

• Internal Hemorrhoids: These are inside the rectum and can cause bleeding during bowel movements without you feeling any pain.

• External Hemorrhoids: These are under the skin around the anal opening and are painful. They can swell, itch, and cause bleeding.

So... After Hemorrhoids are Treated, Can They Come Back?

The truth is, yes, they can. Treatment addresses the existing problem, but if the underlying cause remains, there's a possibility of hemorrhoids returning.

Even after surgery or laser treatment, if the patient doesn't adjust their daily habits, new hemorrhoids can form. However, the difference is that the patient becomes more aware and can often prevent their recurrence if they commit to changes.

Why Can Hemorrhoids Return After Treatment?

Many reasons can lead to hemorrhoids returning, including:

1. Chronic Constipation: Straining excessively during bowel movements or spending too much time on the toilet increases pressure on the anal veins, leading to a recurrence of the problem.

2. Prolonged Sitting: Especially if you have a desk job or sit for hours without moving, this directly affects blood circulation in the area.

3. Low Fiber Intake: A lack of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet slows down digestion, leads to more constipation, and makes hemorrhoids more likely to appear.

4. Insufficient Water Intake: Water is essential for softening stool and facilitating bowel movements. The less you drink, the more difficult bowel movements become, increasing pressure on the veins.

5. Excess Weight or Pregnancy: Both increase pressure on the lower body, and consequently, on the veins in the pelvic area.

6. Non-adherence to Post-treatment Instructions: Any negligence, whether related to medication or lifestyle, increases the chances of hemorrhoids returning.

How Can We Prevent Hemorrhoids from Returning After Treatment?

There are a few simple steps you can follow to significantly reduce the likelihood of hemorrhoids returning:

1. Focus on Your Diet:

   • Increase fiber in your diet: vegetables, fruits, legumes, oats.

   • Reduce foods that cause constipation: such as fried foods, fats, and processed cheese.

   • Don't eat large quantities at once; divide your meals throughout the day.

2. Drink Enough Water:

   • At least 2 liters per day.

   • Water helps with digestion and prevents constipation.

3. Don't Spend Too Much Time on the Toilet:

   • Keep bathroom visits quick, and don't spend time on your phone in there!

   • When you feel the urge, go immediately; don't postpone it.

4. Stay Active:

   • If your job involves a lot of sitting, get up every hour and move for even a minute.

   • Engage in light exercise like walking for 30 minutes daily.

5. Follow Up with Your Doctor After Treatment:

   • Regular follow-up is essential after any hemorrhoid treatment, whether surgery, laser, or otherwise.

   • If you feel any returning symptoms, don't delay seeking medical attention.

Is Laser Treatment a Permanent Solution for Hemorrhoids?

Laser is one of the latest and best methods for treating hemorrhoids, and its effectiveness is very high. It offers:

• Significantly reduced pain.

• A short recovery period.

• Reduced chances of bleeding.

• Minimal complications.

However... like any treatment, you must maintain a healthy lifestyle afterward for the results to remain excellent.

What Should I Do if Hemorrhoids Return After Treatment?

First thing: don't worry.

Many cases can be re-treated easily, either with laser or conservative management.

The important thing is to see a specialized doctor to determine the type of hemorrhoids and if there are any complications.

Article Summary

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can recur after treatment, especially if the unhealthy daily habits that led to their initial appearance are not modified. Prevention begins with focusing on proper nutrition, drinking plenty of water, avoiding constipation, and regular medical follow-up. Modern laser treatment techniques reduce recurrence rates, but they don't eliminate them completely if the causes persist. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the primary guarantee against the problem recurring.