Epidemiology and Management Practices of Hemorrhoids among Adults Attending a Surgical OPD: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background

Hemorrhoids are a common benign anorectal disorder encountered in surgical outpatient practice and are frequently associated with rectal bleeding, prolapse, pain, and bowel habit disturbances.

 Objectives

To evaluate the demographic profile, clinical presentation, grade distribution, associated risk factors, and management practices of hemorrhoids among adults attending a surgical outpatient department.

 Methods

This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Government Medical College, Suryapet, from May 2024 to April 2025. One hundred consecutive adult patients diagnosed clinically and by proctoscopic assessment as having hemorrhoids were enrolled. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, symptoms, hemorrhoid grade, risk factors, and treatment practices were recorded using a structured proforma and analyzed descriptively.

 Results

Most patients were aged 41–50 years, and males predominated. Bleeding per rectum was the most common symptom, followed by constipation and pain during defecation. Grade II hemorrhoids constituted the largest subgroup, whereas Grade IV disease was less frequent. Chronic constipation, low dietary fiber intake, and prolonged sitting were the leading associated risk factors. Conservative treatment, particularly dietary modification, lifestyle advice, and medications, was the most frequent management approach, while office procedures and hemorrhoidectomy were used in a smaller proportion of patients.

 Conclusion

Hemorrhoids in surgical OPD attendees were most often seen in middle-aged adults and were strongly associated with modifiable bowel and lifestyle factors. Most patients had low-to-moderate grade disease and were managed conservatively, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis, bowel habit correction, and stage-appropriate intervention in routine surgical practice.

 Recommendations

Promote a fiber-rich diet, hydration, regular bowel habits, physical activity, and early consultation to prevent progression and reduce the need for surgery.