What Else Can I Do?
There are three main things-diet, exercise and hygiene.
Reduce the foods that can cause constipation, chiefly meats, dairy products and processed GMO grains. Constipation can significantly increase hemorrhoidal symptoms. Eating a plant based diet featuring organic fruit and vegetables will assist in reducing constipation. Organic, non-GMO, fruits and vegetables contain soluble fiber which assist in creating soft, comfortable bowel movements and reduce the likelihood of aggravating the inflamed area. Proper hydration is also critically important, drink lots of water, stay hydrated.
Daily exercise is also critically important. Daily exercise assists the body in elimination and supporting circulation. Long periods of daily sitting, standing in place or inactivity can negatively affect your circulatory system. The result is blood pooling in your rectum and extremities especially the lower legs, ankles and feet, increasing both pain and discomfort.
The third key is a gently cleansing routine. Avoid excess wiping which can cause further inflammation. Instead use pre-moistened wipes or wet toilet paper. A natural plant based sponge to gently cleanse the area is recommended. We offer aloe infused plant based sponges to our customers, it the best solution we have found to gently cleanse the area and reduce further swelling/irritation.
Major Risk factors
- Heredity
- Irregular bowel habits
- Bad nutrition habits (low-fiber diet)
- Increased intra-abdominal pressure (prolonged straining)
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Increasing the rectal vein pressure (obesity, sitting for long periods of time)
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Extended periods of standing or sitting
- Drugs
- Deep vein thrombosis
Prevention
- Keep stool soft by eating a plant based diet, thus decreasing pressure and straining.
- Empty bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs.
- Increase fiber in the diet to help reduce constipation and straining by producing stools that are softer and easier to pass.
- Exercise regularly (eg. walking)
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time