How do I Prevent Hemorrhoids from Acting Up?

Once the hemorrhoids have developed, is not possible to eliminate them without surgery. However, "acting up of hemorrhoids can be prevented and surgery avoided by following a few simple measures.

Avoid Constipation

Constipation leads to prolonged repeated straining and is usually caused by the typical American diet of low-fiber and highly refined food. Other causes of constipation are physical inactivity (sendentary lifestyle), disruption of normal routines, failure to drink enough fluids and taking certain medications.

Add Fiber (Bulk) to your Diet

Fiber is the indigestible residue of plant food. By absorbing water, it gives bulk to the food, which stimulates the intestinal tract to push food particles along and help relieve constipation. A high-fiber diet also helps irritable bowel syndrome and prevents diverticulosis and cancer of the colon. (Seeds, nuts and corn may not be tolerated with diverticulosis). Most health organizations recommend consumption of food containing 25 to 35 grams of fiber on a daily basis.

See the Fiber Content of Foods Guide

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Adequate fluid intake must accompany increases in dietary fibers. A minimum of eight glasses of eight ounces of non-alcoholic, caffeine-free fluid is recommended per day, especially when bran is used as the main source of dietary fiber.

Exercise Moderately

There is some evidence that regular moderate exercise helps improve the working of the colon and helps ease constipation, along with promoting general well-being.

Strenuous exercise involving an increase in intra-abdominal pressure such as heavy lifting should be avoided. Exercise in moderation is recommended for 30 minutes each day.

Repeated conscious relaxations of the anal sphincter muscle during the daytime specially after exercise in a lying down position releases some of the pressure on the hemorrhoidal vessels.

Also see Good Defecation Habits

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Contributors:

Habib Bhutta, M.D.
Preventive Care Enterprises
20+ years experience

Paul Armstrong, M.D.
Internal Medicine

Michael Peskin, M.D.
Gastroenterology

Barrington A. Murry, M.D.
Ob.Gyn.

Anne Melly, M.S., R.D., L.D.
Clinical Nutrition