Prevention of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids or piles are basically clusters of enlarged veins under the skin that lies in the lowest part of the rectum. These enlarged veins are caused by exerting constant strain or pressure. These are varicose veins that happen to lie in clusters surrounding the anal opening. If these veins get dilated, they sometimes even start protruding out of the anus. Hemorrhoids may be internal or external depending on the amount of dilation the veins have undergone. When they move outside the anus, they are often observed as knots or lumps protruding out of the opening. The veins sometimes become so enlarged that they also begin to bleed. When this bleeding is continuous, blood clots may begin to form and further complicate the condition.

The first step towards preventing hemorrhoids is to drink plenty of fluids and keep yourself hydrated. Since these varicose veins form due to straining to pass stool, a lot of fiber should be added to your diet. An increased amount of fiber allows for easy movement of the faecal matter, thus saving you from the strain. Keeping a correct posture and exercising regularly will help you keep in shape and also lessen the amount you have to strain in order to pass stools. Reduce your sitting time to as little as possible. Increase your physical activity and change your lifestyle a little to prevent hemorrhoids. As mentioned earlier, pay special attention to your diet. Eat at least two portions of vegetables and three portions of Fruits everyday. Add raw salads to your meals. Switch to whole grains instead of refined ones. Doing so will help soften the stool and make the movement easier by increasing the bulk.

Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water every day. The water intake helps keep your tissues moist. If you have frequent Constipation, get in touch with your doctor and discuss the use of stool softeners. For those who take any sort of fiber supplements, it is necessary to drink plenty of water so that the constipation problem doesn't worsen. The fiber will also help you get rid of excess gas in your system. Straining yourself by standing for too long should be avoided. Similarly, sitting at one place for too long can also cause varicose veins in the anal area. If you are obese, you are at a higher risk of hemorrhoids therefore, make it a point to exercise daily. While passing stool, try your best to not strain or hold your breath. These actions can cause stress on your veins and cause them to lose shape.

answered by M W

Hemorrhoids are commonly known as piles. It is a common ailment affecting the anus and the lower rectum causing pain, itching, swelling and irritation. This condition can make routine natures call a painful experience. The rectum comprises of an internal vein and external vein. Excessive pressure or damage to either vein causes hemorrhoids. Damage caused to the internal vein takes place gradually and is unknown to the sufferer until it reaches a severe condition leading to internal hemorrhoid. External hemorrhoid is visible as sores, swelling and can be treated with ease as compared to internal hemorrhoids.

Various factors contribute to the occurrence of hemorrhoids ranging from age, constipation, dietary habits, pregnancy, liver problems, diarrhea and erratic bowel movements. Home remedies can help alleviate pain and also eliminate the condition incase it is mild to moderate in nature. Rectal bleeding is a sign of caution and an immediate diagnosis is advisable. Hemorrhoids should be treated with effective remedies because this condition is known to recur and can torment a person throughout a life time. Treatment varies from home remedies, over the counter medicines to surgeries. Tried and tested home remedies and herbal cures are best suitable to avoid side effects of harsh chemicals.

Lukewarm water bath or hot compresses are an ideal way to soothe pain and swelling caused due to hemorrhoids. Diet also plays an important part in treating hemorrhoids. Eating a high fiber diet aids bowel movement and reduces pressure on the damaged rectum. Intake of fresh fruits, vegetables and green leafy vegetables help soften bulky stool. Juice diets and raw foods are equally recommended to treat hemorrhoids. Avoiding the seated position is another simple way to reduce pressure on the rectum.

Natural laxatives such psylium husks, bananas, prunes, flax seeds, senna pods, papaya, wholegrain breads, unpolished rice, oat bran and castor oil can prove beneficial as compared to over the counter medicines. It is advisable to avoid fatty, fried foods such as oily snacks, ice creams and pastries. Equally avoidable are tae, coffee, spicy condiments and processed foods.

Prolonged use of laxatives containing chemicals can damage the nerve cells and block the natural ability to pass motion. Foods that aid digestion can also help in hemorrhoid related problems. Cooking foods with ginger, asafetida, fennel seeds are known to help digest food better. Apart from eating right it is also important to de-stress with the help of any favorable relaxation techniques. Mild to moderate exercise is also advisable provided it does not aggravate the painful area.

answered by G M

HEMORRHOIDS ARE CAUSED BR POOR CIRCULATION AND AGGRAVATED BY CONSTIPATION. INDIVIDUALS WHO SIT A LOT EVERY DAY ARE MORE LIKELY TO GET HEMORRHOIDS THAN THOSE WHO ARE ACTIVE. A REGULAR DAILY EXERCISE ROUTINE WILL HELP WITH CIRCULATION. IF YOU WORK SEATED AT A DESK EVERY DAY, MAKE IT A POINT TO GET UP, STRETCH AND MOVE AROUND EVERY TWO HOURS.

CONSTIPATION CAN BE ELIMINATED BY EATING A HIGH FIBER DIET, WHICH INCLUDES WHOLE GRAINS AND WHOLE GRAIN BREADS AND PLENTY OF FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES. IN ADDITION, AT LEAST 8 GLASSES OF WATER A DAY IS VERY HELPFUL IN ASSURING DAILY BOWEL MOVEMENTS.

answered by Dr H K