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What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are inflamed and swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. This common condition can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding. But what causes hemorrhoids?
Factors that can Increase the Risk of Hemorrhoids
- Aging: As you get older, your risk for developing hemorrhoids increases.
- Pregnancy: Women often experience hemorrhoids while they are pregnant due to hormone changes, extra weight, and an increase in pressure on the rectal region.
- Diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea can put a strain on the muscles in the rectum.
- Straining during bowel movements: This can happen due to constipation, from sitting on the toilet for too long, or from overly forceful wiping.
- Excessive weight: Being obese or having a lot of extra weight can place increased pressure on the rectal area.
- Family history: Having a family history of hemorrhoids can increase your risk.
- Anal intercourse: This can put a strain on the anal area and the rectal muscles.
Preventing Hemorrhoids
If you are at risk for developing hemorrhoids, there are some steps you can take to help prevent them.
- Drink plenty of fluids: This keeps the stool soft and can prevent constipation.
- Eat a high-fiber diet: Eating plenty of high-fiber foods can also help prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise helps to keep the blood flowing smoothly, which can help to prevent and treat hemorrhoids.
- Go to the bathroom when the urge strikes: Ignoring the urge to go can cause constipation and straining.
- Avoid excessive straining: This can put extra pressure on the rectal area, which can cause hemorrhoids.
Treating Hemorrhoids
If you do develop hemorrhoids, there are a few ways to treat them. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
- Topical medications: These can be applied to the area to help reduce itching, burning, and discomfort.
- Sitz baths: This can help to soothe the area and reduce inflammation.
- Fiber supplements: These can help to soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
- Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding straining can help to ease symptoms of hemorrhoids.
- Surgery: If other treatments don’t help, then your doctor may recommend surgery.
Hemorrhoids can be painful and uncomfortable, but awareness of risk factors and preventive steps can help to reduce your risk of developing them. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your risk for hemorrhoids.
Keywords: hemorrhoids, piles, causes, risk factors, prevention, treatment.
