Hemorrhoids are one of the most common ailments in the adult population. This condition, characterized by the inflammation of the veins in the rectal area, affects a significant percentage of people and can appear for various reasons.
Diets high in processed foods, along with increased sedentary lifestyles, have increased their appearance in the populations of developed countries. In addition, natural physiological situations such as childbirth are also factors that predispose to their appearance.
Although hemorrhoids are usually not serious, they can be very annoying if not treated correctly. One of the most recommended treatments includes the use of specific ointments, such as Proctolog Ointment, which relieve symptoms and promote recovery. However, in addition to medical treatments, it is essential to adopt certain habits and avoid others that may aggravate the situation.
What are hemorrhoids and why do they appear?
Hemorrhoids are inflammations of the vascular tissues located in the rectum and anus. These structures, which naturally contribute to the control of evacuation, can dilate or become irritated due to various factors, giving rise to internal hemorrhoids, which are usually painless, or external hemorrhoids, which appear on the skin around the anus and are usually painful and significantly worsen the quality of life of those who suffer from them.
The main causes of hemorrhoids include common processes such as constipation, pregnancy or childbirth, a sedentary lifestyle or even hereditary factors, so knowing how to prevent them also gives us many clues on how to combat them if they have already appeared.
What you should not do if you have hemorrhoids
If you suffer from hemorrhoids, certain practices can aggravate the inflammation, intensify the symptoms or even complicate recovery, leading to injuries or more serious problems such as infections or fistulas. Preventing these habits can help you combat hemorrhoids and prevent their recurrence.
- Eating an inadequate diet
An unbalanced diet that includes very irritating foods such as spicy foods is usually one of the biggest enemies when you are dealing with this problem. Also avoid saturated and trans fats, and ultra-processed foods, as they irritate the intestinal mucosa.
On the other hand, there are healthy foods that can also be a problem if they cause constipation or gas, such as rice or white bread, some legumes or derivatives of cabbage such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts or cauliflower.
- Consuming alcohol and caffeine
Both substances are irritating and vasodilating, which can worsen the inflammation of hemorrhoids. In addition, they dehydrate the body, which makes intestinal evacuation difficult. If you cannot completely do without them, resort to options such as non-alcoholic beer or decaffeinated coffee to prevent hemorrhoids from becoming a chronic health problem.
- Using unsupervised home remedies
Applying home solutions can be dangerous. In addition to not having scientifically proven benefits, these remedies can worsen the situation. Especially in cases of damaged, raised skin or the presence of fistulas, home remedies could come into contact with the body and generate serious infections, turning a temporary problem into a serious complication.
- Using toilet paper that is too rough
The use of toilet paper that is too rough or thin that can damage the area or leave cellulose residue is a common reason for irritation in the affected area. If you have hemorrhoid problems regularly, always opt for soft, quality toilet paper, avoiding overly aggressive or repetitive cleaning.
- Spending a lot of time sitting or standing
Remaining in the same position for long periods increases the pressure on the rectal veins, which worsens the inflammation. Workers who have to spend many hours sitting or standing in the same position are more likely to suffer from hemorrhoids.
What are the most recommended practices to get rid of hemorrhoids?
To relieve symptoms and speed up recovery, it is important to adopt certain specific habits and care.
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fiber
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps regulate intestinal transit, preventing constipation and reducing effort during bowel movements. In addition to relieving your hemorrhoids, you will improve all aspects of your health.
- Staying hydrated
Drinking a sufficient amount of water, generally at least two liters per day, is essential to soften stools and facilitate their evacuation. It is important to drink water in small amounts throughout the day to keep the digestive system functioning properly. You can supplement water consumption with infusions, as long as they do not contain caffeine.
- Using recommended medical treatments
The use of specific ointments, such as Proctolog Ointment, relieves inflammation and soothes pain safely. However, it is always important to follow the doctor's recommendations and, in the case of postpartum hemorrhoids, also consult with the midwife to ensure that there are no contraindications during breastfeeding.
- Maintaining adequate hygiene
After each bowel movement, gently wash the area with warm water and pat dry to avoid friction. This helps keep the area clean and reduces the risk of infection. To continue maintaining hygiene when you are away from home, you can carry your own toilet paper or soft and resistant cellulose tissues. This will prevent you from using the toilet paper in public bathrooms, which may not be the most suitable.
- Performing gentle physical exercise
Maintaining an active life is always recommended to avoid the appearance of hemorrhoids, but once they have already appeared, the pain they cause usually generates a certain sedentary lifestyle that is not suitable if you want to get rid of them. Gentle physical activities such as walking help improve blood circulation and reduce pressure on the rectal veins. Although you should avoid exercises that involve abdominal effort or lifting heavy objects.
Hemorrhoids are a common condition, but with proper management it is possible to relieve their symptoms and prevent complications. Adopting a diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated and opting for specific medical treatments, such as Proctolog Ointment, are steps to improve quality of life. By following these tips and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to live with this condition, minimizing discomfort and ensuring a quick recovery.
