Although it may seem unlikely, having hemorrhoids is more common than people often think . Between 50% and 75% of the population suffers from them or has suffered from them to a greater or lesser extent.
The truth is that a large percentage of people live with this condition and suffer in silence because of all the implications it has on a social level.
The good news is that it's possible to live a full life even with hemorrhoids . You just need to take certain precautions and carefully choose which therapeutic products can help improve your well-being.
What Are Hemorrhoids and What Causes Them?
Also known as piles , hemorrhoids are an inflammation of the veins located in the anus and lower rectum , similar to varicose veins.
Hemorrhoids can appear when the area is subjected to a lot of pressure . This can be caused by chronic constipation and the need to strain when having a bowel movement, pregnancy, or an activity that requires prolonged sitting.
There are two types : internal hemorrhoids, which are located inside the rectum , and external hemorrhoids, which appear under the skin surrounding the anus . While there are several possible causes of hemorrhoids, their specific origin is often unknown.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
- Straining during bowel movements
- Activities that require sitting for many hours
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Anal intercourse with little lubrication
- Low-fiber diet
- The older you are, the greater the risk of suffering from hemorrhoids because the tissues of the rectum can weaken and/or stretch.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
There are several signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids depending on their degree and type:
- Bleeding without pain
- Itching in the anal area
- Aches or pains
- Pulsation sensation
- Inflammation around the anus
- Lump near the anus and tenderness or pain (may be a thrombosed hemorrhoid)
The symptoms of hemorrhoids vary depending on where they are located.
Internal hemorrhoid
They are located inside the rectum and usually cannot be seen or felt, rarely causing discomfort. However, they can bleed with excessive straining during bowel movements.
Straining may cause a protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoid , which occurs when the hemorrhoid protrudes through the anal opening, causing pain and irritation.
External hemorrhoid
They are located under the skin surrounding the anus. If irritated, they can itch, hurt, and bleed.
Thrombosed hemorrhoid
When blood accumulates in an external hemorrhoid, a clot or thrombus forms, causing intense pain, swelling, and/or a lump in the anal area.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids?
- Eat high-fiber foods: Your diet should be varied, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This type of diet softens stools and increases their bulk. This prevents constipation and excessive straining during bowel movements.
- Drink plenty of fluids: It is recommended to drink six to eight glasses of water and other non-alcoholic liquids per day to soften stools and hydrate the body.
- Avoid straining when defecating: Putting excessive pressure on the veins in the lower rectum when defecating can cause hemorrhoids.
- Don't hold back the urge to have a bowel movement: If you let the urge to have a bowel movement pass, your stool can dry out and become harder to pass.
- Exercise regularly .
- Have proper anal hygiene .
- If we have to spend several hours sitting, do so comfortably .
Have you ever considered using therapeutic cushions to relieve pressure and pain while sitting ? At Theramart, we have cushions like the Airgel and Therapressure that could be very helpful.
What did you think of these tips on how to prevent hemorrhoids ? Remember that if symptoms persist and the pain increases, you should see a healthcare professional immediately for an accurate diagnosis.
