Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the rectum or around the anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding. While many people experience hemorrhoids, recurrence after initial treatment is common.
Understanding Recurrence
Hemorrhoids often recur because their underlying causes are not addressed. Increased pressure on the veins in the rectal and anal area is a primary factor. This pressure can arise from chronic constipation, which leads to straining during bowel movements. Persistent diarrhea also contributes to hemorrhoid development.
Prolonged sitting, particularly on the toilet, increases pressure on anal veins and impedes blood circulation. Frequent heavy lifting can also strain the abdominal and pelvic regions, increasing pressure on these veins. A low-fiber diet often results in harder stools and increased straining. Pregnancy and childbirth also exert substantial pressure on the pelvic area, making hemorrhoids and their recurrence more likely.
Preventing Future Episodes
Preventing future hemorrhoid episodes involves lifestyle modifications that reduce pressure on rectal veins. Increasing dietary fiber intake is a primary step, as fiber softens stool and adds bulk, making bowel movements easier to pass without straining. Aim for about 25 grams of fiber daily for women and 38 grams for men, incorporating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Gradually increasing fiber can prevent gas and bloating.
Adequate hydration is important, as fiber needs water to work effectively. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water daily helps keep stools soft and promotes smoother passage. Regular physical activity aids in preventing constipation and reducing pressure on veins, supporting bowel regularity. If your job involves prolonged sitting, take frequent breaks to stand, stretch, or walk to alleviate pressure.
Establishing healthy bowel habits is important; avoid delaying bowel movements when the urge arises, and do not strain or spend excessive time on the toilet. Sitting with feet slightly elevated on a stool during bowel movements can optimize rectal alignment, allowing for easier stool passage and less straining. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces overall pressure on the pelvic area, lowering the risk of hemorrhoid recurrence.
Seeking Professional Guidance
While lifestyle changes are effective for managing and preventing hemorrhoids, knowing when to seek professional medical guidance is important. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent bleeding, especially if the toilet water turns red or if there are large blood clots. While bleeding is a common hemorrhoid symptom, it can also indicate other, more serious conditions.
Severe or persistent pain and discomfort in the rectal or anal area, particularly if it does not improve after a week of home remedies, warrants medical attention. If you notice a painful lump that does not retract, or if symptoms worsen despite self-care, a doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and discuss appropriate interventions. Medical professionals offer various treatment options, including non-surgical procedures like rubber band ligation, which cuts off blood supply, or sclerotherapy, which shrinks the tissue. For severe or frequently recurring hemorrhoids, surgical removal might be considered.