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What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when the veins around your anus or lower rectum get swollen and inflamed.

There are two​​ types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.

Hemorrhoids are very common – almost three out of four adults will have hemorrhoids from time to time. Many people get hemorrhoids in older adulthood, though people of any age can experience this problem.

External Hemorrhoids

External Hemorrhoids irritate under the skin around the rectum.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal Hemorrhoids irritate the lining of the anus and lower rectum.

What causes Hemorrhoids?

If you stop and think about it, you put a lot of pressure on the veins of your rectum over the course of day to day life! Over time, that pressure can weaken veins, causing hemorrhoids to form.

Low Fiber Diet
Constipation
Sitting Longer on the Toilet
Pregnancy
Childbirth
Heavy Lifting
Aging
Obesity

What are the
symptoms?

Blood in stool

Rectal pain

Burning

Itching

Swelling around
anal canal

Bulging of
tissue

How to prevent hemorrhoids?

There are a few lifestyle choices that both prevent hemorrhoids from developing and help treat hemorrhoids if you have them:

Stay Physically Active

Moderate exercise has a positive effect on improving and preventing many bowel and digestive issues, including hemorrhoids. When there is no movement of the body, there is no movement of the bowel. Simple exercises like walking, running, biking, and yoga help regulate a working digestive system. If you already have hemorrhoids, consult your physician on heavy weight-lifting of squats, which can increase abdominal pressure and worsen existing hemorrhoids.

Once you’ve developed hemorrhoids and start feeling pain or other symptoms (such as rectal bleeding, soiling, and/or bulging), get long-term relief by asking your physician about hemorrhoid banding.

Eat foods with a high fiber content

Eating foods that are high in fiber can make stools softer, easier to pass, and can help treat and prevent hemorrhoids. The recommended intake is 28 grams of dietary fiber per day, based on standard 2000 calories per day guidelines. If you frequently experience constipation, which can contribute to hemorrhoids, try to avoid foods with less or no fiber such as cheese, chips, ice cream, fast food, meat, frozen prepared foods and processed microwavable dinners.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps to prevent constipation, which in turn reduces straining during bowel movements. Most healthy people can stay well hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than 8 glasses may be enough, but for others, you may need well over 8 glasses per day. Consult your physician to find the right balance for your body.

Timed Bathroom Trips

Don’t take your phone or newspaper in the toilet. A timed bathroom trip can help to avoid longer time spent on the toilet seat.

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