External Hemorrhoids

You have a hemorrhoid problem. The itching, the burning, the pain and swelling, and maybe even some bleeding have brought you to the point of wanting to end the problem. The only question is…how?
Did you know that the number one cause of external hemorrhoids is straining when you have a bowel movement? And not only is it the main cause, but it is also something that can make a simple hemorrhoid become a very big problem. Straining is especially a threat if you already have hemorrhoid issues.

What happens with many people and often begins a hemorrhoid problem is becoming constipated. Even if you aren’t really constipated but simply have a stool that is harder to pass, you will still tend to strain to get it out. When you apply a good deal of force as you try to make a bowel movement, you are putting so much pressure on the veins down there that they become irritated and may react by becoming swollen. Then, the next time you go, it may be even more difficult.

It’s really a vicious cycle that you need to end. Quite often becoming constipated can be avoided. One of the major causes of constipation is very simple to correct: Don’t hold it if you don’t have to. If you go to the bathroom to have a bowel movement as soon as you feel the need, you will not become constipated as easily.

Another thing you can do to end the constipation and straining problem is to drink more water. One effect of not drinking enough water and becoming dehydrated is constipation. If you drink more water, your stools will be softer and easier to pass.

You may also want to increase the amount of fruit and vegetables that you eat. This will help add fiber to your diet naturally. You can also take a fiber stool softener to help get you past the initial difficulty. Having stools that are easier to pass will not only help you heal from the hemorrhoid problem, but it will also help prevent the hemorrhoids you already have from turning into thrombosed external hemorrhoids.

While you are making it a goal not to strain while having a bowel movement, you will also want to make sure you don’t spend too much time sitting on the toilet. The pressure on your bottom from sitting too long can exacerbate the problem. Many people read while sitting on the toilet. Anything that prolongs your sitting time is not helpful to avoiding hemorrhoids.

Using all of these precautions should help you to have healthier bowel habits and will go a long way towards healing your hemorrhoids, or they may even keep you from developing a hemorrhoid problem altogether. The sooner you begin, the sooner you can be in control.