Hemorrhoids have become a common issue among patients at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, with about 900 patients seen in the first three months of the year. This represents an increase from the previous year, with 50% of the patients being office workers. According to Doctor Nguyen Van Hau from the Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Endoscopic Surgery, many patients come for treatment when their symptoms worsen.
Hemorrhoids are not cancerous but can significantly impact a person’s health and quality of life, causing itching and pain in the anus, especially during bowel movements. They account for about 35-50% of colorectal diseases. Prolonged sitting, which is common among office workers, can affect blood circulation, leading to increased pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, creating a favorable environment for hemorrhoids to develop. Other factors such as stress and poor dietary habits can also contribute to their development.
Many patients do not seek treatment for hemorrhoids until their symptoms become severe, such as burning pain or bleeding during bowel movements or prolapse of the anal area. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and type of hemorrhoids, with medication and lifestyle adjustments being used for milder cases and surgical procedures being employed for more severe cases.
In addition to office workers, other groups at risk for hemorrhoids include long-distance drivers, sedentary individuals, pregnant women, and those with constipation or chronic diarrhea. Early detection and treatment are essential to avoid complications such as chronic pain or infection and reduce costs associated with treatment. Dr. Hau advises people with office jobs to take regular breaks from sitting, stay hydrated, manage stress effectively