How to prevent recurring Hemorrhoids in females
Hemorrhoids, a common condition characterized by swollen veins in the rectum or anus, can be particularly bothersome for females. Distress, pain, and embarrassment associated with recurring hemorrhoids can significantly impact the quality of life. However, with the right preventive measures, females can reduce the likelihood of recurring hemorrhoids and enjoy improved comfort and well-being. This article explores practical strategies and lifestyle changes to prevent piles or hemorrhoid recurrence in females by Dr Azhar Alam, an experienced laser piles specialist doctor in Kolkata.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
Understanding what hemorrhoids are and what causes them is important before exploring preventive strategies. Piles occur when the veins around the rectum or anus become swollen and inflamed. This can lead to discomfort, itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding, especially during bowel movements. There are two main types of piles: internal piles and external piles. Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external. The internal ones are located inside the rectum, while the external ones form under the skin surrounding the anus. It’s important to be aware of the differences between the two types to identify and treat them properly.
Also Read: How Do I Know If I Have Hemorrhoids?
Causes of Recurring Hemorrhoids in Females
Several factors contribute to the development and recurrence of hemorrhoids in females. These include:
1. Straining during bowel movements:
Excessive straining or pushing can cause or worsen hemorrhoids by increasing pressure on the veins in the rectal area.
2. Chronic constipation or diarrhea:
Irregular bowel habits, such as chronic constipation or diarrhea, can increase the risk of hemorrhoids by straining the rectal veins.
3. Pregnancy and childbirth:
The hormonal changes and increased pressure on the pelvic area during pregnancy, as well as the strain of childbirth, can contribute to hemorrhoids development in females.
4. Obesity:
Being overweight or obesity can increase the pressure on the pelvis and rectal veins of the female body, making her more susceptible to hemorrhoids in the future.
5. Sedentary lifestyle:
A sedentary lifestyle and prolonged periods of sitting or standing can harm blood flow and increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
6. Poor dietary habits:
Did you know that a diet lacking fiber and filled with processed foods could cause constipation? This, in turn, can increase your chances of getting hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is crucial to ensure optimal bodily functions.
Preventive Strategies
To prevent hemorrhoids recurrence and alleviate discomfort, females can adopt the following effective strategies:
Maintain a High-Fiber Diet:
You must consume a wide variety of fiber-rich foods throughout your daily diet to prevent constipation and significantly reduce the risk of piles in the future. Females should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts to ensure adequate fiber intake. Additionally, drinking plenty of water softens stools and facilitates bowel movements, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Practice Proper Toilet Habits:
Proper toilet habits can help prevent the discomfort and risk of hemorrhoids caused by straining during bowel movements. Females should avoid delaying bowel movements when they feel the urge to go and should not strain or force them. Using a squatting position on the toilet can help align the rectum for easier elimination. Additionally, gently wiping the anal area with moist toilet paper or using a bidet can prevent irritation and itching.
Stay Active:
Regular physical activity helps prevent hemorrhoids and promotes healthy bowel function. Doing moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga, for 30 minutes can improve blood circulation, strengthen pelvic muscles, and prevent constipation in females.
Manage Weight:
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the pressure on the pelvic area and rectal veins, lowering the risk of hemorrhoids. Females who are overweight or obese should focus on adopting a balanced diet and exercising regularly to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Practice Good Posture:
Poor posture, especially when sitting or standing, can contribute to pelvic congestion and increase the risk of hemorrhoids. Females need to maintain a healthy posture throughout the day. They must avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing in one position to ensure a healthy and active lifestyle. A cushion or padded seat can also alleviate pressure on the rectal area when seated for extended periods.
Avoid Straining:
Straining during bowel movements is one of the primary causes of hemorrhoids. Females should avoid straining or holding their breath while passing stools. Instead, they should relax and allow bowel movements to occur naturally. A stool softener or fiber supplement can ease bowel movements and prevent straining if necessary.
Practice Good Hygiene:
Maintaining proper hygiene in the anal area is crucial to prevent irritation and inflammation that can lead to hemorrhoids. Females should make sure to clean the anal area gently with mild soap and water after bowel movements and pat dry with a soft towel. It is important to avoid using harsh or scented hygiene products to prevent any irritation and itching.
Use Topical Treatments:
Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as hemorrhoid creams or ointments containing witch hazel or hydrocortisone, can relieve itching, pain, and inflammation associated with hemorrhoids. Females should follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products and avoid prolonged use to prevent skin thinning or other adverse effects.
Consider Medical Intervention:
In some cases, despite preventive measures, hemorrhoids may persist or worsen, requiring experienced piles doctor intervention. Females experiencing persistent or severe symptoms should consult a piles specialist doctor in Kolkata for evaluation and treatment options. Several minimally invasive procedures, including rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and infrared coagulation, are available to treat hemorrhoids effectively. These treatments have been proven to shrink or completely remove hemorrhoids, providing a reliable solution for those who suffer from this condition.
Also Read: How To Deal With Piles In The Most Safe Way?
Conclusion
Recurring hemorrhoids can cause significant discomfort and inconvenience for females, but they are not inevitable. By adopting preventive strategies such as maintaining a high-fiber diet, practicing proper toilet habits, staying active, managing weight, and practicing good hygiene, females can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and enjoy improved comfort and well-being. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite proactive measures, you should listen to your body, prioritize self-care, and seek piles doctor attention. With the right approach, females can prevent hemorrhoids recurrence and live a healthier, more comfortable life.
