In the United States, hemorrhoids occur in approximately one in 20 people.
Of adults age 50 and older, about half of them have hemorrhoids. This is a common condition that can cause discomfort. In severe instances, complications like infection and blood clots within the hemorrhoid are possible
There are ways to reduce your risk of hemorrhoids, and these are all relatively easy methods that a hemorrhoid specialist in Los Angeles can help you to implement in your daily life.
Diet Changes
You should remain hydrated and eat plenty of foods rich in fiber to prevent hemorrhoids. These diet changes cause bulkier and softer stools that are easier to pass. Aim for at least six glasses of water daily. Some foods that are high in fiber include:
- Whole grains
- Nuts and seeds
- Legumes
- Green peas
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli
- Raspberries
- Apples
- Pears
- Bananas
Fiber Supplementation
In the United States, most adults do not consume enough fiber each day. This can lead to constipation, increasing your risk of hemorrhoids. Men need 38 grams a day and women need 25 grams a day. If you are not getting enough of this nutrient from your diet, a supplement may help.
Before you start taking a fiber supplement, make an appointment with a hemorrhoid specialist in Los Angeles. They can recommend a high-quality product and ensure that this type of supplement is not contraindicated with any medications you take or conditions that you have.
Bowel Movement Habits
Your bowel movement habits have an impact on your risk of hemorrhoids. It is important to never strain to have a bowel movement. When you hold your breath and strain, this puts more pressure on the lower rectum’s veins.
As soon as you feel you need to pass stool, you should go. Holding your bowel movements can make stool more difficult to pass because they can be drier once you go to have a bowel movement.
If you are having trouble with your bowel movements, talk to a hemorrhoid specialist in Los Angeles. They can help to determine why you are having difficulty and discuss ways to resolve the issue.
Get Active
If you sit for long periods of time, your risk of hemorrhoids increases. When you are sitting, there is more pressure on the veins in your anus. This pressure can lead to the development of hemorrhoids. Sitting for long periods on the toilet particularly increases your risk.
If you have to sit a lot for work or school, take breaks every 60 to 90 minutes to get up. Moving around for just five minutes can help to alleviate the pressure so that your hemorrhoid risk is lower.
It is also important to exercise. When you live an active life, this decreases your risk of constipation and being overweight. Both being overweight and constipation are risk factors for hemorrhoids.
If you suspect that you have a hemorrhoid, you should visit a hemorrhoid specialist in Los Angeles. They can make an accurate diagnosis and provide information about the different treatment options. This specialist can also help you to prevent additional hemorrhoids in the future.