Constipation is one of the main causes of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are a collection of veins in the area of the anal canal and show problematic symptoms if they swell, which happens due to excessive pressure. Constipation, especially when it occurs for an extended period of time, leads in the majority of cases to strain, which puts unwanted pressure on the hemorrhoidal veins. Constipation and consequently hemorrhoids are an issue faced by a significant number of people worldwide. The General Surgeons in Athens offer effective solutions to the symptoms of these diseases.
Constipation and connection to hemorrhoids
Straining during bowel movements can cause the veins in the anus and lower rectum to swell. These swollen veins are known as hemorrhoids. Excessive straining due to constipation can cause either internal or external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids present with bleeding, swelling, and itching and rarely cause pain, while external hemorrhoids that form near the opening of the anus can cause quite painful symptoms over time.
A fairly common question is whether hemorrhoids cause constipation. The answer to that is no. In fact, the opposite is true. If hemorrhoids cause more discomfort, pain, or bleeding, constipation is a possible cause. As mentioned above, constipation leads to strain, causing the veins to swell and symptoms of hemorrhoids to appear.
Constipation & hemorrhoids: How to avoid them?
To avoid constipation and consequently hemorrhoids it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Drinking enough water and getting plenty of fiber through your diet is vital to completely avoiding constipation. Foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes are the most powerful ally against constipation and hemorrhoids.
Other causes of constipation include stress, eating too much dairy, taking antacid medications, or even sitting for long periods of time. Therefore, in addition to drinking water and fiber intake, it is important to avoid straining during bowel movements and prolonged sitting, as this can put pressure on the veins around the anus. At the same time, it is important for people to exercise regularly and make physical activity a priority.
Following these tips can certainly reduce the chances of people experiencing constipation or even hemorrhoids, but this is no guarantee of avoiding hemorrhoid disease. Also, due to the pressure exerted on the rectal area during pregnancy, the development of hemorrhoids is favored in pregnant women, which, however, in the majority of them subside after childbirth.
