Five Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Hemorrhoids
BOOK APPOINTMENTHemorrhoids are a common condition. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, 75 percent of Americans will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. For most people, hemorrhoids come and go, but for some, they are a chronic problem. The FDA reports that hemorrhoid treatment options are among the most-searched medical topics on the Internet. But there are many ways of reducing your risk of hemorrhoids so you never have to worry about treatment in the first place.
Don’t Strain During Bowel Movements
Straining during bowel movements puts increased pressure on your colon and rectum, which over time can lead to injury. Also try to avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Lengthy bowel movements that involve straining are often the result of constipation or diarrhea, so to avoid these issues…
Change Your Diet
Eat more foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A high-fiber diet both softens your stools and increases their bulk, making stool easier to pass. This means less repeated pressure on your rectum, which gives your tissues a chance to heal.
Lose Weight
All of your body’s systems are negatively impacted by obesity, including your digestive system. Excess weight puts pressure on your rectum, making hemorrhoids more likely.
Maintain an Active Lifestyle
Too much sitting or standing in the course of the day impacts your long-term health. Prolonged sitting puts pressure on your lower rectum, leading to increased risk of hemorrhoids, while excessive standing can lead to lower back pain and muscle fatigue. Vary your patterns of movement as much as possible throughout the day, alternating sitting, standing, and walking.
Know Your Genetics and Family History
Does your family have a history of hemorrhoids? There are certain genetic risk factors that predispose people to this condition. Knowing that you are vulnerable to hemorrhoids can make you more vigilant about avoiding potential risk factors.
Many of these tips are interlinked. Changing your diet and lifestyle will help you lose weight, eliminating several risk factors at once. Hemorrhoids are a recurring problem, and you may not be able to eliminate them completely. But you can make them less frequent and less intense.
Los Angeles gastroenterologist, Dr. Mark Davidson, provides more answers to questions about hemorrhoids and how to treat them. Call Beverly Hills Center for Digestive Health for more information on hemorrhoid prevention and to schedule your consultation.
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