The medical term for hemorrhoids is piles. Hemorrhoids may cause discomfort, pain and in some cases bleeding. Although many find it embarrassing to talk about them, understanding why they develop is crucial in prevention and management. Here are five common reasons you might develop hemorrhoids:
- Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea
Chronic constipation is one of the main causes of haemorrhoids. When you strain while passing stools, veins in the rectum and anus can become swollen and bulging leading to haemorrhoids. This is worsened by hard stools which do not move easily thereby causing stress on the same veins.
On the other hand, chronic diarrhea may also lead to hemorrhoid development. Repeated bowel movements can bring about inflammation as well as swelling of the rectal and anal regions. These sensitive tissues could be punctured or hurt through repeated rubbing and irritation thereby resulting into hemorrhoids.
- Sedentary Lifestyle and Prolonged Sitting
Another contributing factor to developing hemorrhoids is a sedentary lifestyle. Continuous sitting particularly on hard surfaces exerts pressure on veins found around your rectum as well as anus; this pressure eventually causes enlargement leading to hemorrhoid formation.
A sedentary lifestyle can also slow down digestion and cause constipation. Physical exercise helps to move food through the intestines more quickly, reducing the need for straining. Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine can be a good way of preventing hemorrhoids.
- Obesity
Obesity is closely related to hemorrhoids because it increases pressure in the lower part of the body. Extra weight particularly in the abdominal area puts pressure on veins located in the pelvis. This strain may result in varicose dilation (varicosities) of blood vessels in the rectal and anal region leading to hemorrhoids.
Also, obesity is usually connected with an unhealthy diet, low in fiber. A low-fiber diet can lead to constipation and usually forces a person to strain while they are passing stool; both conditions have been found as some of the causes of piles. Thus maintaining normal body mass index by adopting high-fibre diet will reduce episodes of haemorrhoids or piles
- Pregnancy
Hemorrhoids normally appear in women during pregnancy. As the uterus grows, it puts pressure on the veins of the lower part of the body, including those within and close to anal canal. This pressure can make veins swell and become hemorrhoids.
Moreover, hormonal changes related to gestation may slow down bowel movement that leads to constipation. The combination of increased intra-abdominal pressure and constipation makes pregnant women more susceptible to developing hemorrhoids. Proper hydration, appropriate diet with a lot of fibers and frequent workouts can help mitigate hemorrhoids occurrence during pregnancy.
- Aging
Another factor that increases susceptibility of getting hemorrhoids is aging. Vein supportive tissues surrounding anus/rectum weaken/stretch with age which makes them prone to swelling hence formation of hemorrhoids.
Likewise, age also brings about slower digestion and lesser physical activity promoting constipation development too. Therefore, seniors are advised to exercise regularly, eat fiber-rich foods as well as always take plenty water to prevent themselves from having this condition called piles or even have it treated properly if infected before it gets worse as they advance in years.
Preventing Measures
These causes can be understood in order to initiate preventive measures against hemorrhoids-related discomfort. Below are some tips on how to prevent their development:
Boosting Fiber: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes helps soften stools and promote regular bowel movements hence reducing strain.
Keep Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep stools soft and easier to pass.
Exercise Regularly: This would stimulate bowel movements necessary for preventing constipation.
Avoid prolonged sitting: Take breaks from sitting, especially if you have a desk job, so as not to put too much pressure on the rectal and anal veins.
Good Bathroom Practices: Do not strain during the defecation process; do not sit for long time periods too. Rush in response to the call of nature!
Conclusions
Hemorrhoids is a common inconvenient condition that may be caused by situations such as chronic constipation, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, pregnancy and aging. It can help you know these factors and find ways of curbing this issue which will lower your chances of hemorrhoid development thus maintaining better health generally.
