**Fatshimetrie: Understanding and Preventing Hemorrhoids**
Hemorrhoids, although often a taboo subject, are swollen veins located in the lower part of the rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins that can be seen in the legs. They can cause itching, discomfort, and even bleeding during bowel movements.
Understanding this phenomenon is essential to taking the proper preventative measures. Whether you are currently dealing with hemorrhoids or simply want to avoid them in the future, we will guide you through the essential information.
### What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the rectum or anus. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are found inside the rectum, which can make them difficult to detect until they cause bleeding. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are located under the skin around the anus and can cause pain and discomfort.
### What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. **Straining during bowel movements**: This is one of the main causes of hemorrhoids. When you strain to evacuate, you put extra pressure on the veins in your rectum, which can cause them to swell.
2. **Prolonged sitting**: Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, puts increased pressure on the veins in your lower body, which can lead to hemorrhoids.
3. **Pregnancy**: Pregnant women are more likely to develop hemorrhoids because of the pressure the fetus puts on the veins in your lower body.
4. **Aging**: As we age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, leading to hemorrhoids.
5. **Chronic constipation or diarrhea**: Both of these conditions can cause straining during bowel movements, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
### How to prevent hemorrhoids?
Preventing hemorrhoids involves reducing the pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. Here are some simple ways to do this:
– **Eat a high-fiber diet**: Foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, make stools softer and easier to pass, reducing the need to strain during bowel movements.
– **Stay hydrated**: Drinking plenty of water helps keep stools soft, making them easier to pass and reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.
– **Exercise regularly**: Regular physical activity helps your digestive system function properly and can prevent constipation.
– **Avoid sitting for long periods of time**: If your job requires you to sit for long periods of time, try to take breaks and move around every hour or so.
– **Avoid straining on the toilet**: If you have trouble going, don’t strain. Give it time to do its job, or try again later.
### What to do if you have hemorrhoids?
If you develop hemorrhoids, there are several things you can do at home to help relieve your symptoms:
– **Use over-the-counter treatments**: Creams, ointments, and suppositories can help soothe itching and discomfort.
– **Take warm baths**: Soaking in a warm bath can help relieve pain and swelling.
– **Use wet wipes**: Instead of dry toilet paper, use wet wipes to gently clean the area after a bowel movement.
– **Avoid heavy lifting**: Lifting heavy objects can put extra pressure on your rectum, so avoid if you have hemorrhoids.
If your symptoms do not improve or if you experience severe pain or bleeding, see a doctor. Don’t be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about hemorrhoids; it is a common problem for which there are solutions.