A Guide to Understanding and Preventing Hemorrhoids by Revivol-XR
Reviewed by: Jasmine Crouzet, PharmD, RPh
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are a common condition affecting the rectal and anal areas. They can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding. In this article, we will discuss the risk factors for hemorrhoids and ways to prevent them.
Risk Factors for Hemorrhoids Several factors can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids, including:
- Straining during bowel movements due to constipation or diarrhea
- Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
- Pregnancy
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Being overweight or obese
Prevention of Hemorrhoids To prevent hemorrhoids, it is important to:
- Eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber to prevent constipation and diarrhea
- Drink plenty of water to soften stools and prevent constipation
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and reduce pressure on the pelvic area
- Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
- Elevate the feet using a stool when seated on the toilet
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are a common condition affecting the rectal and anal areas. They are caused by inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the rectal and anal areas. The symptoms of hemorrhoids can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, itching, and bleeding. Several risk factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. One of the most common causes is straining during bowel movements. This can be caused by constipation, diarrhea, or sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Pregnancy is another risk factor for developing hemorrhoids, as the increased pressure on the pelvic area can cause the blood vessels in the rectal and anal areas to become inflamed.
Furthermore, hormone changes in pregnancy can slow digestion and cause constipation, which can lead to hemorrhoids. Another risk factor that can contribute to hemorrhoids is a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting for long periods of time can cause blood to pool in the rectal and anal areas, which can lead to inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels. Being overweight or obese can also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids, as the additional weight can put pressure on the pelvic area.
To prevent hemorrhoids, it is important to maintain a healthy diet that is high in fiber. This can help to prevent constipation and diarrhea, both of which can contribute to straining during bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water can also help to prevent constipation and keep stools soft. Exercise is also important in preventing hemorrhoids, as it can help to improve circulation and reduce pressure on the pelvic area. Regular exercise can also help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Another tip to prevent hemorrhoids is to avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Instead, it is important to try having a bowel movement as soon as the urge to go is felt. If sitting on the toilet for an extended period of time is necessary, elevating the feet using a stool can help to reduce pressure on the pelvic area.
In summary, hemorrhoids are a common condition caused by inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the rectal and anal areas. Risk factors include straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, a sedentary lifestyle, and being overweight or obese. To prevent hemorrhoids, it is important to maintain a healthy diet high in fiber, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods, and elevate the feet using a stool when seated on the toilet.
References:
- Definition & Facts of Hemorrhoids. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
- Hemorrhoids treatment, symptoms, causes & prevention. Cleveland Clinic.
- Hemorrhoids while pregnant: Causes, prevention & treatment. Cleveland Clinic.
- Lohsiriwat, V. Hemorrhoids: From basic pathophysiology to clinical management. World Journal of Gastroenterology.
- Staroselsky, A., Nava-Ocampo, A.A., Vohra, S., Koren G. Hemorrhoids in pregnancy. Canadian Family Physician.