Hemorrhoids are inflamed and swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum and anus, which may protrude outwards or be wholly contained internally. A variety of contributing factors are related to hemorrhoids, including prolonged standing, straining during defecation and childbirth. The McKinley Health Center states that people between the ages of 25 to 50 have the greatest number of symptoms due to hemorrhoids. Symptoms may be mild and barely noticeable, or may be so severe they necessitate surgery. Any discomfort or pain in the region of the rectum or anus should be reported to a health practitioner.
Abnormal Bowel Movements
Straining during episodes of constipation, prolonged or frequent bouts of diarrhea, passing hard stools and lengthy times sitting on the toilet may all contribute to causing hemorrhoids, writes The McKinley Health Center. Stool softeners may be helpful for those who experience long-term constipation. Gentle wiping after stools and use of damp wipes may prevent pain and lessen rectal trauma. A health practitioner or pharmacist should be consulted before using any new supplements or products.
Prolonged Sitting and Standing
Long periods of sitting in one position may cause the development of hemorrhoids, says The McKinley Health Center. Sitting on a round donut pillow may help relieve pressure on the anus and rectum.
Jobs that require individuals to stand for extended periods may also contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids due to the strain placed on the low back and pressure on the lower portion of the colon. People who work in jobs where there is a great deal of standing, especially standing still for long periods, should change position often to get some exercise and take breaks to sit down as often as possible, suggests The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide.
Diet
Many cases of hemorrhoids are developed because of diets low in natural fiber and high in animal proteins and fats. Fiber from whole grains, fruits and vegetables is necessary to keep the colon healthy and allow stool to pass freely, writes The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. Opting for a diet high in fast food, red meat, animal fats and dairy products may not only cause hemorrhoids, but also create additional serious problems in the digestive tract.
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Childbirth is a common time where many women may develop hemorrhoids and other varicose veins in the lower portion of the body, writes the University of Maryland Medical Center. The weight of carrying a baby followed by the straining during childbirth puts tremendous pressure on the lower portion of the colon as well as on veins in the vagina and may result in hemorrhoids. Taking warm baths or sitz baths during pregnancy and after giving birth may offer soothing relief and help hemorrhoids shrink, suggests UMMC.
