The hemorrhoidsalso known as piles, are not an abnormality in themselves: they are part of normal anatomy. All people are born with this tissue, which plays a key role in continence. The problem appears when HE inflames or dilatesgenerating discomfort that can affect daily life.

This is a much more common condition than is believed. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, About 50% of the population will develop them before the age of 50which explains why it is one of the most common consultations in general medicine and proctology.

From a clinical point of view, they can be divided into internal and external. The former are located inside the rectum and, in most cases, do not cause pain, although they can manifest with visible bleeding, such as the appearance of bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet. If they protrude outwards, they can cause irritation and discomfort.

The external ones, on the other hand, tend to be more evident and painful. They are presented as a tender lumpaccompanied by itching, swelling or discomfort when sitting or after having a bowel movement. In some cases, they can be complicated by the formation of a clot—thrombosis—which intensifies the pain and creates a hard, discolored lump, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The symptoms include anal itching, pain, bleeding and a lumpy feeling. In most cases, internal ones do not cause pain unless they prolapse, while external ones are especially annoying and tend to cause more discomfort.

It is important to highlight, as noted Harvard Healththat Not all lumps in the anal region correspond to hemorrhoids; Other conditions, such as anal fissures or abscesses, may have similar symptoms.

Therefore, in the event of severe pain, persistent bleeding or unusual symptoms, it is recommended to consult a health professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

The origin of this condition is linked to a key factor: the excessive pressure in the veins of the rectal areawhich causes inflammation and dilation. This process is usually triggered by daily habits that are more common than it seems.

According to the Mayo Clinic, actions like straining when having a bowel movement, chronic constipation, spending a lot of time on the toilet, or frequent lifting significantly increase the risk. Added to this is pregnancy, as the growth of the uterus puts additional pressure on the pelvic veins.

The passage of time also plays a determining role. With age, the tissues that support these veins tend to weaken and stretchwhich facilitates its appearance and recurrence.

Likewise, factors such as Obesity, a low-fiber diet, and lack of physical activity They complete the picture, favoring the development of this condition in a large part of the adult population.

Among other causes identified by Cleveland Clinic, include prolonged diarrhea or constipationhe overweight and the lack of physical activity. The effort when evacuating and holding your breath during defecation generates a significant increase in pressure in the veins of the rectum, facilitating the formation of hemorrhoids.

Furthermore, certain studies have observed that Patients with hemorrhoids may have higher than normal muscle tone in the anal canal at rest.which contributes to the appearance of symptoms.

The best way to avoid hemorrhoids is keep stool soft and facilitate evacuationwhich reduces pressure on the veins of the rectum and anus. According to Mayo Clinic experts, Incorporating foods rich in fiber is essential: Fruits, vegetables and whole grains help soften stools and increase their volume, making them easier to pass and reducing the need to strain.

If the usual diet does not provide enough fiber, supplements such as psyllium or methylcellulose may be useful, always accompanied by adequate fluid intake.

Drinking plenty of water is another essential habit. The usual recommendation is to consume between six and eight glasses a daywhich helps make stools softer and easier to pass. Meanwhile, avoiding alcohol can also help, since it tends to dehydrate the body, according to Harvard Health.

He regular exerciseat least 20 to 30 minutes daily of moderate aerobic activity, such as walking, is a effective strategy to stimulate intestinal function and prevent constipationexplain Harvard Health teachers. Staying active also helps with weight control, which reduces pressure on the anal veins.

Establishing a healthy bowel routine is key: Attending to the urge to defecate when it appears and not postponing the moment prevents hardening of the stool and reduces episodes of straining. Additionally, limiting time sitting on the toilet and avoiding distractions such as prolonged phone use can reduce the risk.