Almost three out of four people have experienced hemorrhoids at some point in their life. This condition can lead to itching, pain and bleeding in the anus and rectum, and many people have both internal and external hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can be a frustrating and painful condition, but there are some things you can do to reduce your chances of developing them. The most common cause of hemorrhoids is prolonged sitting.
Sitting for long periods causes intense pressure on the anus and rectum. The pressure makes the blood vessels around the anus and rectum stretch out and lose elasticity, which leads to the development of hemorrhoids.
If you have a job that requires you to sit for hours at a time, it’s important to take frequent breaks during the day. This will help keep your blood flow better and make you feel more energized.
Standing up periodically is also important for hemorrhoid prevention and treatment, especially if you’re in an office setting where you may sit for long periods of time. Proctologists recommend taking a few minutes to stand up and stretch out for every hour you sit down.
Exercise and a healthy diet are essential for preventing and managing hemorrhoids. Exercising improves bowel function, tones the tissues that support the anus and rectum, and increases blood flow. Improving bowel function helps avoid constipation, while boosting blood flow promotes healing of existing hemorrhoids.
Increasing your fiber intake is another way to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and nuts, but limit low-fiber foods like cheese, meat, ice cream, and highly processed snacks.
Drinking lots of water is important for keeping your intestines healthy. You can also drink herbal teas to stimulate bowel movements and increase your intake of fluids.
It’s also important to avoid sedentary activities, such as watching TV or playing video games for extended periods of time. This type of sedentary activity can increase your risk for chronic conditions, including hemorrhoids and heart disease.
Hemorrhoids are caused by a variety of factors, but they typically occur when you’re in a sedentary position or if you have constipation. Eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water and exercising are all effective ways to prevent hemorrhoids from occurring in the first place.
You can also use a donut pillow to cushion your anus when you sit for extended periods. These pillows can be purchased for a reasonable price at retailers online and in stores.
If you have hemorrhoids, it’s important to get medical help. This is a condition that can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes or surgical intervention.
Your doctor can prescribe medications to relieve symptoms and heal your hemorrhoids. You can also ask your physician about nonsurgical methods for treatment, such as banding or laser surgery.
Using an ice pack or cold compress can also provide some temporary relief from hemorrhoids and reduce pain and swelling. However, if your hemorrhoids don’t improve or don’t go away after a few weeks of home care, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.
