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Hemorrhoid Prevention – 3 Simple Ways to Keep Hemorrhoids at Bay

Preventing hemorrhoids from occurring in the first place is the best, first attempt at hemorrhoid care. 50% of Americans by the age of 50 experience the discomfort of hemorrhoids. Although the Utah Hemorrhoid Center at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology specializes in non-surgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids, if possible, we would love our patients to avoid experiencing hemorrhoid pain altogether.

Diet

Avoid an abundance of foods that cause constipation, which can irritate hemorrhoids. Too many low- fiber foods such as white breads, pasta, rice, cheese, and canned vegetables without skin can lead to constipation. Fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains and dried fruits are all part of a healthy diet that keeps the gut running smoothly. Using gentle fiber supplements are a smart addition to your diet if you just can’t seem to get enough fiber from the foods you eat. Ask one of the providers at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology for the safest way to start using fiber supplements.

Exercise

Sitting too much and not exercising encourages your gut to become inactive in the same way it encourages your other muscles to become weak and ineffective. Exercise encourages your bowel to move in the same way it strengthens your muscles and makes activity easier throughout the body.

Water

Adequate hydration is an important part of general health and it is critical to avoiding constipation. Water makes it easier for the bowel to move stool through and out of the body. Staying well-hydrated helps the gut do its job and avoid a back-up at the body’s exit.

Avoid, or postpone, hemorrhoid discomfort by incorporating these simple changes into daily life.  If you are already having hemorrhoid pain or discomfort, see one of our specialists at the Utah Hemorrhoid Center at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology today for quick, easy, non-surgical treatment of internal hemorrhoids.

How Do You Get Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are more common than you know. We will help you identify activities that may contribute to hemorrhoid development.

Think only certain types of people get hemorrhoids? Think again—hemorrhoids will affect half of all people by the time they turn 50.

While most people get them after age 30, the truth is, they’re common among all kinds of people from all kinds of backgrounds—and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed or upset about telling a doctor if you think you have them.

So, how do you get hemorrhoids? Here are a few of the most common factors people talk to doctors about when they get hemorrhoids:

Chronic constipation: A diet low in fiber and high in fat can be one cause of constipation. Other conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome can also result in constipation. Constipation causes you to strain excessively to pass a bowel movement, putting pressure on the veins in the anus and resulting in swelling. Not drinking enough water also can lead to constipation by not providing an adequate amount of fluid in the intestines, leading to hard stools.

Chronic diarrhea: This might seem like the opposite problem, but chronic diarrhea can have the same result because it also increases pressure on the anus from frequent bowel movements.

Pregnancy and childbirth: Increased pressure from the growing fetus and issues with constipation during pregnancy can cause you to develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Straining during childbirth can also cause hemorrhoids to develop.

Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to get hemorrhoids because excessive weight puts pressure on the veins of the rectum and anus, which can lead to swelling and inflammation. In addition, people who are obese may be more likely to be sedentary or eat a diet that is too low in fiber.

Sitting too long: Sitting all day, or for too long on the toilet, can increase the pressure on your veins and anus, sometimes causing hemorrhoids.

Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy weights or other objects can also strain your anus, especially if done with improper form.

Age: As you age, the tissues that support your veins can weaken or stretch causing the development of hemorrhoids.

As you can see, hemorrhoids can afflict all kinds of people – men and women, young and old. No matter what causes your hemorrhoids, you can get treatment. Visit the Utah Hemorrhoid Center now for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Source: CRH O’Regan

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