Let’s talk about hemorrhoids! There is no reason not to, as most people have them. That’s right. The confusion often arises because hemorrhoids are associated with a set of symptoms that doctors refer to as hemorrhoidal disease. This means that the vascular plexuses (present in the anus of all individuals) exhibit symptoms such as pain, swelling, itching, or bleeding.
There is another equally painful symptom: the stigma associated with a condition that is rarely discussed. With this in mind, Procto-Glyvenol has invited four personalities to engage in a conversation on the subject, under the guidance of comedian Beatriz Gosta, in a four-episode web series available on Spotify and Apple Podcast, released bi-weekly.
Digital influencers Mariana Seara Cardoso and Sara Andrade, marathon runner João Neto, and nurse Ana Pires are among the guests to help demystify the taboos surrounding hemorrhoids in a light-hearted and relaxed discussion aimed at easing the anxieties surrounding the condition.
Throughout the four episodes, moderated by Beatriz Gosta, topics such as hemorrhoid symptoms during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding, recurrence after pregnancy and/or postpartum, the impact of hemorrhoidal disease on athletes, alongside tips for pain relief and appropriate treatments, will be discussed. The series will feature real-life testimonies, dismantling myths and benefiting from the advice of a nurse dedicated to promoting health and wellbeing.
Hemorrhoids or Hemorrhoidal Disease?
We all have the former, many suffer from the latter. As explained above, hemorrhoids are plexuses or vascular structures in the anus of every person, functioning to contain feces. When these structures present symptoms like pain, swelling, or bleeding, it is correctly referred to as hemorrhoidal disease. Commonly referring to this symptomatology as “having hemorrhoids” creates a stigma around the very natural presence of these veins in the anal canal.
What Causes Hemorrhoidal Disease and What Are Its Symptoms?
Hemorrhoidal disease can occur at any age, including in children, but it is more common from the age of 45 onwards. In younger ages, possible causes include pregnancy, changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), straining during bowel movements, sedentary lifestyle, certain physical exercises (such as weightlifting), and dietary factors (low-fiber diets or excessive alcohol or spicy foods).
In older age, degeneration of the supportive tissue of the fibrovascular plexuses can cause hemorrhoidal disease. It is estimated that more than half of people over the age of 50 will experience the condition at some point in their lives.
Symptoms include blood loss, prolapse during bowel movement, sensation of incomplete evacuation (tenesmus), itchiness (pruritus), and pain in the anal area.
