Hemorrhoids are among the more painful conditions that can occur when certain veins within the anus or rectum become swollen and inflamed. Along with a high amount of discomfort, you’ll likely experience bleeding until the hemorrhoids have been treated, which can be frustrating to deal with. If you want to avoid experiencing these issues in the first place, understanding the risk factors that are associated with hemorrhoids should help you substantially lower your risk of developing them.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a common health issue that leads to the development of inflamed and swollen veins in some area of the anus or rectum. These veins can either be internal or external, the location of which determines what treatment you’ll be provided with. The symptoms that you experience when suffering from hemorrhoids depend on where the hemorrhoids are located. In some areas, the presence of hemorrhoids can bring about constant pain, discomfort, bleeding, and itchiness until the hemorrhoids are cleared up. These symptoms may worsen during bowel movements. The main types of treatment for hemorrhoids include lifestyle changes and procedures like sclerotherapy.
Standard Risk Factors
The main causes and risk factors associated with hemorrhoids include everything from chronic constipation and diarrhea to sitting for a long time on the toilet. Since hemorrhoids develop in nearly 75 percent of people at some point in their lives, the causes of hemorrhoids are too numerous to list. These swollen veins can also develop if you strain too much during bowel movements. When blood pressure rises in the blood vessels within the anus or rectum, the vessels can slip into an incorrect position, which causes irritation and swelling.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
Even though the bowel movements are the most common cause of hemorrhoids, there are an array of lifestyle factors that heighten your chance of suffering from one or more hemorrhoids. For instance, it’s important that you remain hydrated if you wish to avoid hemorrhoids. Becoming dehydrated or not consuming enough water throughout the day can lead to the development of constipation, which can cause hemorrhoids to develop. A diet that’s low in fiber will also put you at a greater risk since these diets increase the risk of constipation. Instead, fill your diet with foods that are rich in fiber, which include beans, pears, broccoli, almonds, bananas, oranges, and brown rice. You should also exercise regularly to increase muscle tone in the anorectal muscles, which lessens your risk of hemorrhoids.