Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen or inflamed veins around the anus or lower rectum. Its appearance occurs thanks to pressure in the area that causes them to protrude or become inflamed.
There are two types: external hemorrhoids — form under the skin around the anus, and internal hemorrhoids — appear in the lining of the anus and lower rectum, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine Health Portal, Medline Plus.
the magazine Medical News Today points out that its size can vary and appear inside or outside the anus. Also, They occur due to chronic constipation and diarrhea, lifting a lot of weight, pregnancy or excessive straining when defecating.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the best way to prevent them is to keep your stools soft so they pass easily. For this reason, a diet rich in fiber will be essential to achieve this, as well as to relieve symptoms.
Causes
- Low fiber diet.
- Weakening of the supporting tissues in the anus and rectum: This can happen with aging and pregnancy.
- Frequent lifting of heavy objects.
- Straining during bowel movements.
- Sitting on the toilet for too long.
- Chronic stress or diarrhea.
The Spanish Foundation of the Digestive System (FEAD) specifically recommend a consumption of 25 to 35 grams of fiber from different nutrients.
Foods to combat hemorrhoids
Here are some foods that FEAD recommends, to consume daily and reduce the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.
- 6 servings of farinaceous: in the form of cereals, rice, bread or pasta, preferably whole grains or enriched with wheat bran due to its greater fiber content.
- 3 pieces of fruit: they are recommended whole instead of juiced, since the fiber is mostly found in the pulp and skin. The Spanish Society of Community Pharmacy (Sefac) suggests the consumption of black fruits, such as blackberries, plums or grapes, because “they contain flavonoids, which act as protectors of blood vessels”.
- 2 servings of vegetables: for example, a plate of cooked vegetables and another of salad, as ingredients in elaborate dishes or as a side dish.
- Foods that enhance bile secretion: the liver secretes bile to aid digestion in the intestine and has a laxative effect. Eggplant, artichokes and orange juice are also recommended.
- Legumes: consume between 4 and 5 servings of legumes weekly: one of the main sources of fiber.
- Drink much liquid: When you increase your fiber intake, you have to drink plenty of fluids, so that the stool is easy to eliminate. “At least 2 liters of water”, according to the FEAD.
home remedies for hemorrhoids
cold compresses
- Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the anus to relieve swelling for 15 minutes at a time.
- For large, painful hemorrhoids, this can be an extremely effective treatment. Always apply ice wrapped in a cloth or paper towel, never put ice directly on the skin, according to the portal Healthline.
Aloe vera
- Aloe vera gel has been used for many years to treat hemorrhoids and various skin conditions.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce irritation.
- Although there is not enough clinical evidence related to its effectiveness, the National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health (NCCIH) classifies it as very safe for topical use.
- It is recommended to only use pure aloe vera gel. This can also be extracted directly from the inside of the leaves of the plant.
soothing wipes
- Using toilet paper after each bowel movement can make hemorrhoids worse.
- It is recommended to use wipes to clean, these do not cause irritation. In addition, you can find wipes with soothing anti-hemorrhoid ingredients, such as witch hazel or aloe vera.
- The wipes must not contain alcohol, perfume or other irritants. These substances can aggravate symptoms instead of relieving them.
Warm baths with Epsom salts
- Warm baths can help relieve irritation.
- Sitz baths can be used, using a plastic container that fits inside the toilet, or taking a full-body bath in a tub.
- In accordance with Harvard Health, taking a warm bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement will be most effective. Adding Epsom salts to the bath will help you feel more relief and reduce pain.