Hemorrhoids are the dilation of veins in the anal area. They are caused by an increase in venous pressure in the rectal area and can be internal or external. They are not always painful; however, it is true that external hemorrhoids tend to be more uncomfortable. Often, people suffering from hemorrhoids have circulation problems (specifically venous return insufficiency), which manifests as the appearance of internal and external hemorrhoids of varying sizes. One of the first revealing signs of hemorrhoids is the presence of blood on toilet paper, tingling, and pulling sensations in the anal region, especially when using toilet paper. Hemorrhoids are quite common in pregnant women, with one of the causes being constipation, which is very common in pregnant women.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids
- Drink enough water or hot beverages throughout the day to moisten dry stools, which can cause constipation.
- Consume foods high in fiber: whole grains (rice, flax, bran), fruits and vegetables (especially apples, prunes, Swiss chard, cabbage, spinach, beets), nuts, etc.
- Avoid caffeine, carbonated drinks, fruit juice, beer, and wine to lower blood acidity levels.
- Establish a routine by going to the toilet one to two times a day without straining to normalize the situation (constipation, painful bowel movements).
Exercise: the intestines function better when regular physical activity is practiced.
How to Treat Hemorrhoids?
Most hemorrhoids can be treated by following the advice below. If the situation does not improve after a few days, consult a doctor.
- Use soft toilet paper that will not further irritate your mucous membranes, opt for cotton underwear.
- Take "sitz baths" (special healing solutions sold in pharmacies).
- Apply locally once or twice a day creams enriched with vitamins A, D, and E to soothe the pain.
- Many medicinal plants can help alleviate pain (horse chestnut, witch hazel), itching, and swelling (red elm, witch hazel, horse chestnut, butcher's broom, etc.) caused by hemorrhoids. Most of them are available in pharmacies or directly from herbal medicine laboratories.