Are you looking for ways to prevent the dreaded, embarrassing condition known as hemorrhoids? If so, we hear you. Hemorrhoids are a common health issue that can cause serious discomfort and leave sufferers feeling there’s nowhere to turn for help. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reduce your chances of becoming part of this rather uncomfortable statistic.
What are hemorrhoids, and what causes them?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in our rectum and anus, usually caused by straining during bowel movements, childbirth, or other physical activities. Internal hemorrhoids inhabit the inside lining of the rectum, can cause painless bleeding and can be effectively treated with lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake or topical creams prescribed by a doctor.
Internal hemorrhoid bleeding treatment mainly consists of taking dietary precautions to ensure easier bowel movements and reduce the strain on veins while passing stool. Additionally, surgical options like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy are highly effective but should only be used after consulting a medical professional.
How to prevent hemorrhoids from forming?
Taking steps to prevent hemorrhoids from forming is a key component of living a healthy lifestyle.
Diet Changes
For those looking to reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids, a diet high in fiber and low in processed carbs is key. Fiber helps keep your stool soft and regular, reducing straining during elimination, one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Eating plenty of fresh fruits, nuts, and legumes can help tremendously reduce the risk. At the same time, greatly reducing consumption of processed carbohydrates such as white bread, pastries, and other refined sugars is also important to keep blood sugar levels even and bowels regular. By making smarter dietary choices to promote healthy digestion, preventing hemorrhoids is more attainable than you think.
Water Intake
Water is not only essential to life, it's also an important factor when it comes to preventing hemorrhoids. This health condition can be avoided by ensuring you get the right amount of H2O in your diet - 8-10 glasses per day can work wonders. Drinking more water helps the waste material move smoothly through your system and keeps stools soft. Staying hydrated also helps keep many other issues out of your life, so for a healthier tomorrow, start sipping today!
Regular Exercise
Exercise is one of the key ingredients to preventing hemorrhoids. Regular physical activity can help by strengthening abdominal muscles, reducing pressure on veins, and improving circulation in the anus. An added value of exercise is that it promotes healthy weight management – which can also help reduce the risk of painful and bothersome hemorrhoids. The good news is that even a moderate amount of exercise each day can make a big difference — so you don’t have to run a marathon every week to reap the benefits!
Regular movement
An overlooked, but important component of overall health is regular movement and exercise. This regimen can be especially beneficial for those suffering from hemorrhoids. Lying or sitting in the same position for extended periods of time can cause the veins to become congested, and this congestion can lead to increased pressure, swelling, and discomfort - in other words, hemorrhoids. To keep optimal circulation going, it is essential to stay active and move around throughout the day. Simple habits such as taking regular breaks from sitting at your desk or getting up at least hourly during long road trips are simple ways to promote overall healthier circulation and help keep hemorrhoids at bay.
Taking these proactive steps can go a long way toward preventing any discomfort caused by the formation of troublesome hemorrhoids.
The best ways to treat hemorrhoids if they have already formed?
Hemorrhoid flare-ups can be a painful and embarrassing issue, but they are also common and treatable. As soon as symptoms start to appear, the best course of action is to take preventative measures such as avoiding sitting for long periods of time, eating a high-fiber diet, and consuming plenty of fluids. If hemorrhoids have already formed, however, then topical medications containing medications like hydrocortisone may help reduce inflammation and itching in the affected area.
One procedure that has proven affective is HemWell. This is a FDA approved treatment that will be able to relieve you of hemorrhoid pain within minutes, and permanently.
Additionally, if pain or discomfort persists over-the-counter oral medications that contain ibuprofen may be effective in alleviating any swelling or discomfort. All these treatments are readily available, and although they may not prevent recurrences, they can be helpful in managing symptoms while dealing with an existing episode of hemorrhoid flare-up.
GI Associates can assist in balancing digestion
Take control of your gastrointestinal health and wellness by connecting with the experienced professionals at GI Associates. We specialize in providing quality, thorough care for any digestive disorder or issue you may face. Let us help guide you through diagnosis, treatment options, and lasting solutions—reach out if you'd like to consult a physician or have more questions.
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