Hemorrhoidal disease affects approximately 10 million Americans, presenting with symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and prolapse. Treatment is determined by severity and type—internal, external, or mixed. Dr. Jean H. Ashburn from Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Health reviewed literature from the past 25 years, identifying fiber intake and hydration as first-line treatments. More invasive options like rubber band ligation and hemorrhoidectomy are considered for more severe cases. Complications and recurrence are common, emphasizing the need for ongoing management strategies.

Source: JAMA Network