Hemorrhoid cases are on the rise at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, with nearly 900 patients seen in the first three months of the year. This is a significant increase from the previous year, and 50% of the patients were office workers. Dr. Nguyen Van Hau from the Center for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Endoscopic Surgery explained that 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.
Office workers who sit for long periods are particularly susceptible to developing hemorrhoids due to factors such as poor posture, lack of movement, and stress. Prolonged sitting can affect blood circulation, leading to increased pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, creating a favorable environment for hemorrhoids to develop. 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.
Many patients do not seek treatment for hemorrhoids until their symptoms become severe, such as burning pain or prolapse of the anal area. Treatment options range from medication and lifestyle adjustments for milder cases to surgical procedures for more severe cases. Dr. Hau emphasizes early detection and treatment of hemorrhoids to avoid complications such as infection or cancer and reduce costs associated with medical care.
To prevent hemorrhoids, Dr. Hau advises people with office jobs to take regular breaks from sitting, stay hydrated, manage stress through meditation or exercise routines like yoga or Pilates, maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, and exercise regularly to keep blood circulation flowing smoothly.
In conclusion, hemorrhoid cases are on the rise among office workers due to prolonged sitting periods that affect blood circulation and increase pressure on veins in the anus and rectum. It is crucial to seek early detection and treatment of these conditions before they lead to complications or become more severe over time.