Hemorrhoids can cause a great deal of pain, discomfort, and even embarrassment. Many people are hesitant to talk about their hemorrhoids, however knowing what causes the condition can actually help you protect yourself from getting hemorrhoids. If you have concerns about hemorrhoids, read this information about hemorrhoid causes and prevention.
Also, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with a colorectal surgeon or GI doctor at La Peer Health Systems’ Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence in Los Angeles by calling (888) 742-2032.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Most adults will suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. However, certain diet and lifestyle factors may increase your risk of hemorrhoids. In general, hemorrhoids are more common among adults over 45, as the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus tend to grow weaker with age. However, it’s important to remember that people can suffer from hemorrhoids at any age.
Pregnancy and obesity can both cause increased pressure on the abdomen and therefore raise your chances of developing hemorrhoids. Sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods, straining during bowel movements and suffering chronic diarrhea or constipation are all contributing factors. Additionally, a lack of fiber in the diet can put you at a greater risk for developing hemorrhoids. Other risk factors include anal sex, overuse of laxatives, and a genetic propensity for hemorrhoids.
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Preventing Hemorrhoids
Adjusting your diet and lifestyle may help prevent hemorrhoids from developing. Adding fiber to your diet in the form of fruits, vegetables, and grains or fiber supplements can make stools softer and reduce the need to strain. Additionally, the board-certified colorectal surgeons at the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence recommend drinking six to eight glasses of water each day and exercising to control weight and relieve constipation.
Hemorrhoid Causes and Prevention Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does hemorrhoidal tissue prolapse?
A: As people age, the muscles and tissue supporting the veins in the anus grow weaker. This tendency may contribute to the prolapse of the hemorrhoid.
Q: How can I prevent getting prolapsed hemorrhoids?
A: You can protect yourself by eating a fiber-rich diet with lots of fruit, veggies, and whole grains like bread and cereal. Our GI specialists also recommend that you drink lots of water and avoid reading on the toilet, as sitting for too long can cause the veins to swell.
Q: Does diet really play a role in developing hemorrhoids?
A: Consuming a fiber-rich diet helps keep stools soft and prevents straining during bowel movements. You may also want to consider taking fiber supplements.
Q: Are hemorrhoids hereditary?
A: Hemorrhoids are hereditary, and if a close relative suffered from them, you may be at a greater risk for developing the condition.
Q: What should I do if I think I have hemorrhoids?
A: If your hemorrhoids aren’t going away without medical treatment, you may want to consider seeing an experienced colorectal surgeon for a consultation.
Contact the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence
Over-the-counter medications can help relieve mild hemorrhoids, but in some cases medical intervention is required to resolve the problem. If your hemorrhoids aren’t improving on their own, feel free to contact the experts at the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence today by calling (888) 742-2032 or filling out our contact form.
Next, check out our Hemorrhoid FAQ page.
