Prevention of hemorrhoids

One of the most common aggravator of hemorrhoids is constipation. Pressure induced by straining on a stool can increases the venous blood pressure, stretching the veins and therefore forming a hemorrhoid. Therefore, the first piece of advice in the management of hemorrhoids is to soften the stools (with laxatives or stool softeners) to avoid this physical trauma during a bowel movement. Diarrhea can also cause hemorrhoids due to the frequency of evacuations, which can have a similar stretching effect on the veins.

Even patients who do not experience any constipation may still benefit from using stool softeners as any amount of softening will reduce the internal trauma. In addition to stool softeners, it is also important to take your time and avoid straining when passing a bowel movement. Placing an object such as a stool beneath your legs to raise them will place your body into an optimal position for passing a bowel movement.

The ‘normal’ frequency of bowel movements varies from person to person, so it is important for you to be aware of what ‘normal’ is for you. Once you determine what this is, you should try to keep up a regular rhythm of going to the bathroom, even if you do not feel the need to go. It may take some time for your body to re-adjust –do not be ashamed or surprised if you are unable to pass a stool regularly at the beginning.