Preventing Hemorrhoids
Symptomatic hemorrhoids, commonly called piles, are prevalent. They are irritated and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that can cause significant discomfort.
However, hemorrhoids are a normal part of human anatomy – it's only when they become enlarged and irritated that we become aware of them. You can adopt several lifestyle habits that can reduce the likelihood of developing symptomatic hemorrhoids or reduce discomfort if you already have them.
How to Prevent External Hemorrhoids
The most effective strategy for preventing hemorrhoids is managing your digestive health and avoiding constipation. Here are a few tips to significantly decrease your chances of experiencing hemorrhoid discomfort.
- Eat more fruit and vegetables. Maintaining healthy eating habits is crucial for preventing hemorrhoids. A well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber-rich foods can help facilitate regular bowel movements and alleviate constipation, a common trigger for hemorrhoids. Foods high in fiber include whole grains, leafy green vegetables, legumes, apples, and berries.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated is also key to preventing hemorrhoids. Drink enough fluids, especially water, to maintain optimal hydration and help move stool smoothly through the intestines. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, particularly if you increase your fiber intake through psyllium fiber supplements.
- Exercise regularly. Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential in managing digestive health and preventing symptomatic hemorrhoids. Staying fit will help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing abdominal strain and pressure, which can worsen hemorrhoids.
- Avoid straining. Exerting excessive pressure during bowel movements can cause rectal veins to stretch and bulge. Do your best to relax.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy with Kegel Exercises
Hemorrhoids are a common problem during pregnancy. The increased pelvic pressure due to the growing baby's weight can often lead to the development of hemorrhoids. An effective way to prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy includes performing Kegel exercises.
How to do Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises are beneficial for both men and women, but they are particularly helpful during pregnancy. They not only help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles but can also help manage the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Kegel exercises can be done at any time, but it's recommended to start performing them as soon as you find out you're pregnant.
Step 1: Identify the appropriate muscles.
Before starting Kegel exercises, it is important to find the correct muscles. The easiest way to do this is by stopping urination midstream. The muscles involved in this process are the pelvic floor muscles, which you will target during the Kegel exercises.
Step 2: Get into the correct position.
To perform Kegel exercises, find a comfortable position. You can either sit, stand, or lie down. Make sure your buttocks and abdominal muscles are relaxed.
Step 3: Hold and release.
Contract your pelvic floor muscles by squeezing them. Imagine you are trying to prevent passing gas or stop the flow of urine. This contraction should be felt in the muscles just above your anus.
Hold the contraction for about five seconds, breathing normally. Then, release the contraction and rest for five seconds. Repeat this process four to five times in a row.
Step 4: Gradually increase the duration.
As you become more comfortable with Kegel exercises, gradually increase the duration of each contraction. Try maintaining the contraction for 10 seconds, followed by a 10-second rest. Repeat this cycle ten times, three times a day.
Step 5: Maintain a steady routine.
Kegel exercises require consistency to be effective. Aim to practice them at least three times a day. It may take several weeks to notice any improvement, so be patient and persistent.
Georgia Hemorrhoid Institute: Non-Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment in North Atlanta
Georgia Hemorrhoid Institute offers highly effective, minimally invasive treatment for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a pioneering approach that dramatically reduces painful symptoms by restricting the hemorrhoids' blood supply, causing them to shrink. Patients can return to their routine quickly and comfortably with minimal recovery time.
If you struggle with painful hemorrhoids, please get in touch with our compassionate representatives to book a consultation today.
