Ashamed? Hemorrhoids Don’t Care — They Come Without Warning

Introduction

Many men face a problem they don’t want to talk about — hemorrhoids. This condition can make daily life difficult. It’s especially hard when sitting becomes painful, going to the bathroom is scary, and every day starts with discomfort.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus or inside the rectum. At first, they may not cause much trouble. But over time, they can lead to itching, burning, bleeding, and pain. Some men reach the point where they simply can’t sit normally.

Why do men ignore this? Because they feel embarrassed. They think it will go away on its own. Or they’re afraid of seeing a doctor. But the problem doesn’t go away. Without treatment, hemorrhoids can become chronic, lead to complications, or even require surgery.

Studies show that up to 70% of adult men experience hemorrhoids at some point. The risk is higher for those who:

• Sit for long hours at a desk or while driving
• Lift heavy objects at work or in the gym
• Eat poorly and move very little

Many suffer in silence. Some try random creams. Others search for home tips online. But self-treatment can make things worse.

The good news? Hemorrhoids can be treated — quickly, effectively, and without fear.

This article will explain:

• What symptoms to look out for
• What causes the problem
• How it’s diagnosed
• Which treatments really help

We’ll keep it simple and useful — no scary words. The sooner you act, the sooner you can stop saying “I can’t sit because of hemorrhoids.”

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids in Men

Hemorrhoid symptoms usually start slowly. A man might first feel a little discomfort, then itching or burning after using the toilet. Later, there may be bleeding or pain while sitting. It’s important not to ignore these signs.

Internal vs. External Hemorrhoids: What’s the Difference?

There are two main types of hemorrhoids:

• Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum. They often don’t hurt at first but may bleed.
• External hemorrhoids are under the skin around the anus. These can form painful lumps you can feel.
• Some people have mixed hemorrhoids, with both types at the same time.

Main Symptoms to Watch For

• Itching or burning in the anal area, especially after a bowel movement
• Blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after going to the bathroom
• Pain while sitting, even in a soft chair or on the toilet
• A feeling of pressure or something “stuck” inside the anus
• Lumps or swollen spots near the anus you can feel with your hand
• Sticky mucus or a bad smell, feeling like your bowels didn’t empty fully

When Are the Symptoms Serious?

If pain increases, if bleeding happens often, or if there’s swelling — you should see a doctor quickly. These could be signs of a blood clot or infection.

Also, don’t wait if you:

• Lose a lot of blood
• Can’t sit normally
• Feel sharp, intense pain during daily activities

Symptoms by Stage

The earlier you notice these signs, the easier it is to treat hemorrhoids. Early-stage hemorrhoids can often be treated without surgery.

Main Causes of Hemorrhoids in Men

Many men are surprised when they get hemorrhoids. It seems like something that “only happens to others.” But there are many common reasons why this problem starts. If you know the causes, you can prevent hemorrhoids or stop them early.

1. Constipation and Straining

This is one of the most common causes. When you push hard in the bathroom, the veins in the anus stretch. Over time, they get weak and swollen. This happens more often to men who don’t eat enough fiber, don’t drink enough water, and ignore the urge to go.

2. Sitting Too Much

Office jobs, long hours driving, or working at a computer all reduce blood flow in the lower body. This causes pressure in the veins and can lead to hemorrhoids. Men who sit most of the day — like drivers or IT workers — are at higher risk.

3. Lifting Heavy Objects

Some men lift heavy weights at work or in the gym. Without proper technique or support, this increases pressure in the belly and pushes hemorrhoids to come out.

4. Being Overweight

Extra fat around the belly also puts pressure on the lower veins. The more weight, the higher the risk — especially if a man is not active and eats poorly.

5. Poor Diet

A diet low in fiber leads to hard stools and constipation. Eating a lot of junk food, spicy meals, and drinking too much alcohol also causes irritation and swelling in the intestines and rectum.

6. Family History

If your father or grandfather had hemorrhoids, you may be more likely to get them too. Some people are born with weaker veins or poor circulation.

Summary: What Increases Risk

• Constipation and straining during bowel movements
• Sitting too much or lack of exercise
• Heavy lifting without support
• Obesity and weak pelvic muscles
• Low-fiber diet and not drinking enough water
• Genetics — family history of hemorrhoids

Understanding these causes is the first step in protecting yourself. If any of these sound familiar, it’s a good time to make small changes in your habits.

Possible Complications

Hemorrhoids are not just a “small problem.” If you ignore them, they can cause serious trouble. Many men wait too long to get help — until the pain is so bad that they can’t sit, sleep, or focus at work. But most of this can be avoided with early treatment.

1. Hemorrhoid Thrombosis

This happens when a blood clot forms inside a swollen vein. The lump becomes hard, big, and very painful. It may hurt to sit, walk, or even lie down. Symptoms include sudden pain, swelling, and a bluish lump near the anus. This usually requires urgent care.

2. Bleeding and Anemia

Some men think a little blood on the toilet paper is no big deal. But if it happens often, it can lead to anemia — a lack of red blood cells. You may feel weak, tired, or dizzy. Even small blood loss over time can be harmful.

3. Infections and Abscesses

If a hemorrhoid is scratched or torn, it can get infected. This causes pus, swelling, and fever. In severe cases, it may lead to an abscess (a pocket of infection) or a fistula — a small tunnel near the anus that requires surgery.

4. Constant Pain and Discomfort

When hemorrhoids become chronic, the pain can be constant. Sitting, driving, working, or resting becomes difficult. You may even wake up at night because of it.

5. Mental and Sexual Impact

Many men don’t tell their partner about their condition. Fear of pain, bad smell, or bleeding during intimacy can lead to low self-esteem and stress in relationships.

Important: early treatment helps avoid all of these problems. At early stages, hemorrhoids are easy to manage — no surgery, no stress.

Diagnosis by a Doctor

Many men are afraid to visit a proctologist. Some feel embarrassed, others think the exam will be painful. But in reality, modern diagnosis is quick, safe, and almost painless.

First Examination

At your first visit, the doctor will ask questions: When did the symptoms start? Is there pain? How often is there bleeding? Then, they’ll do a visual check of the anal area to see if there are external lumps, cracks, or swelling.

Next comes a finger exam (digital rectal exam). The doctor gently checks inside the rectum to feel for internal hemorrhoids. It only takes 1–2 minutes and gives useful information.

Anoscopy and Other Tools

To see inside more clearly, the doctor may do an anoscopy. This uses a small tool to look inside the rectum. It’s quick and not painful.

• Sigmoidoscopy — if there may be other bowel problems.
• Blood test — to check for anemia from bleeding.
• Stool test — to look for hidden blood or infection.

How to Prepare

The rectum must be clean for a good exam. Before your appointment, you may be told to use a small enema or mild laxative. The doctor or nurse will give clear instructions.

Why Diagnosis Matters

Trying to treat yourself at home without knowing the real problem can make things worse. Other diseases can look like hemorrhoids: polyps, fissures, infections, or even cancer. Only a doctor can tell the difference.

Don't wait too long. A simple checkup takes just 10–15 minutes — but it can save you months of pain and worry.

Treatment: From Creams to Surgery

Once the doctor confirms you have hemorrhoids, it’s time to start treatment right away. If the condition is caught early, you can avoid surgery. Many cases are treated at home with creams, diet, and healthy habits.

Local Treatment: Creams, Ointments, and Suppositories

This is the first step in most cases. The medicine depends on your symptoms. Anti-inflammatory suppositories reduce swelling and pain. Ointments help soothe itching or burning for external hemorrhoids, and combined products address multiple symptoms at once.

Treatment is usually applied in the morning and before bedtime, and it’s important to clean the area first to avoid further irritation.

Pills and Internal Medicine

The doctor may also suggest oral solutions:

• Venotonics — improve vein strength and circulation
• Pain relievers — ease discomfort
• Stool softeners — reduce strain during bowel movements

At-Home Remedies

In the early stages, some simple self-care steps can support recovery:

• Taking warm sitz baths with chamomile or salt
• Washing with warm water instead of using dry toilet paper
• Adding more fiber to the diet to prevent constipation

Minimally Invasive Procedures

If home care does not bring relief, your doctor might recommend quick outpatient procedures:

• Sclerotherapy — injecting a solution to shrink the hemorrhoid
• Rubber band ligation — placing a band to cut off blood supply
• Infrared coagulation — using light heat to shrink tissue

These methods are fast, nearly painless, and usually allow you to go home the same day.

Surgical Options

In more severe cases, especially stage 3 or 4, surgery may be necessary:

• Hemorrhoidectomy — full removal under anesthesia
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy — lifts the hemorrhoids and reduces blood flow to the area

These methods are usually reserved for cases where hemorrhoids constantly protrude, bleed heavily, or cause persistent pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments.

Be Careful with Home “Cures”

Homemade remedies like raw potato, garlic, or ice may sound natural, but they often do more harm than good. These substances can burn or irritate the sensitive skin and even cause infections. Only use treatments that have been approved by your doctor.

Real treatment is a mix of good medicine, diet, hygiene, and habits. With this approach, you can beat hemorrhoids and avoid complications.

Prevention and Lifestyle

After treatment, it’s not just about healing — it’s about making sure hemorrhoids don’t come back. This means changing a few everyday habits. These tips are especially useful for men who sit a lot, are overweight, or have digestive issues.

Healthy Eating Is Key

One of the most effective ways to support long-term recovery is through nutrition. A fiber-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes helps keep bowel movements soft and regular. Drinking enough water — ideally between 1.5 to 2 liters per day — also plays a major role in avoiding constipation, which is a major trigger for flare-ups. It’s equally important to limit spicy, greasy, and processed foods, as they can increase irritation and inflammation in the digestive system.

Stay Active

Daily movement is essential. Even short, light activities such as walking or stretching can significantly improve blood circulation in the pelvic area and reduce the risk of pressure on veins. People with sedentary jobs should aim to stand and move around regularly, while those recovering from hemorrhoids may find that gentle exercises like yoga or swimming provide relief without added strain.

Better Toilet Habits

Healthy toilet habits are often overlooked, yet they are crucial in preventing recurrence. It’s best to respond promptly to the urge to defecate rather than holding it in, as delays can cause unnecessary pressure. Avoid spending long periods sitting on the toilet, especially while distracted by a phone or book, since this posture increases strain. Gentle hygiene is also key — rinsing with warm water is much kinder to irritated skin than dry or rough toilet paper.

Extra Tips

• Keep a stable weight to reduce pressure on the lower body
• Cut back on alcohol and quit smoking to support vascular health
• Stand and stretch at least once per hour if you have a desk job

In addition to these lifestyle measures, some individuals choose to support their wellness with specially formulated supplements. Fitolium is one such option — a gentle, plant-based capsule designed to offer natural support during and after flare-ups. Its unique formula contains ingredients selected for their soothing and regenerating properties, helping to relieve discomfort such as itching, burning, and swelling. Fitolium is often used by those dealing with both internal and external hemorrhoids, including postpartum cases, and may help maintain long-term comfort by supporting wound healing and reducing inflammation in sensitive tissues. With regular use, it complements a healthy lifestyle by reinforcing the body’s ability to recover and stay balanced.

Prevention isn’t hard. These habits become part of daily life over time. And they can help you avoid pain, itching, and saying “I can’t sit because of hemorrhoids” ever again.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are common — and nothing to be ashamed of. This problem affects millions of men, but the good news is: it can be treated. And if you act early, you can fix it without pain or surgery.

The sooner you talk to a doctor and start treatment, the easier the recovery. In the early stages, a simple cream and a few lifestyle changes may be all you need. In later stages, doctors still have solutions that work.

Don’t wait until the pain is so bad that you can’t sit. Take care of your health now, and you’ll avoid future problems.

Hemorrhoids are treatable. The first step is speaking up.