How to Prevent More Hemorrhoid Problems

If you’ve dealt with hemorrhoids, you know how uncomfortable — and sometimes painful — they can be. The good news? There are simple steps you can take to help prevent future flare-ups.

Dr. Patel shares eight ways to prevent hemorrhoid problems and signs that it’s time to visit our board-certified gastroenterology team at Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, LLC, for hemorrhoid help.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when veins around your anus or lower rectum become swollen or inflamed. It’s a common condition — half of adults have them — and they often happen due to:

• Straining and/or sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Chronic constipation 
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Obesity or a sedentary lifestyle

Once you’ve had hemorrhoids, you’re more likely to get them again unless you make some changes to reduce your risk.

Eight ways to prevent more hemorrhoid problems

There isn’t just one way to avoid hemorrhoid issues. You have several strategies at your disposal.

1. Eat more fiber

A high-fiber diet is your first line of defense. Fiber softens your stool, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing the need to strain.

Good sources of fiber include:

• Fruits, especially pears, prunes, and apples
• Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and dark leafy greens
• Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and barley
• Legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas

Dr. Patel may recommend a fiber supplement if you don’t get enough fiber.

2. Stay hydrated

Water helps fiber do its job. Without enough fluids, fiber can worsen constipation. Men need about 15.5 cups of fluids, and women approximately 11.5 cups. These fluids include water, beverages like juice, and broths.

You may need more water if you’re active or it’s hot outside.

3. Do not delay bathroom trips

When you feel the urge to go to the bathroom, don’t wait. Holding it in makes the stool hard and drier, which leads to straining. Try to create a regular bathroom routine and give yourself time without rushing.

4. Avoid straining

Whether you're lifting heavy objects or having a bowel movement, straining puts pressure on the veins around your anus. Use proper form when lifting objects and focus on relaxing your pelvic floor during bathroom visits.

5. Stay active

Physical activity keeps your digestive system moving and reduces constipation. The gold standard is about 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week — even a brisk walk can help.

6. Skip the reading materials

Avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods, which increases pressure on your rectal veins. Leave your phone or reading material outside the bathroom to reduce temptation.

7. Use a toilet stool

Consider using a toilet stool. This simple device elevates your feet and positions your body in a more natural squatting posture. This alignment straightens your rectum and relaxes your puborectalis muscle, facilitating easy bowel movements and reducing the need to strain.

In other words, using a toilet stool can help you avoid both constipation and hemorrhoids. Win-win! 

8. Practice good hygiene

After each bowel movement, clean the area gently with unscented wipes or warm water. Avoid rough toilet paper, aggressive wiping, or harsh soaps. 

If you experience itching (a common hemorrhoid symptom), use a cream or sitz bath to soothe the area. Scratching the area with toilet paper can irritate delicate tissues.

When to talk to a gastroenterologist about hemorrhoids

If you’ve had hemorrhoid issues more than once, experience rectal bleeding, or aren’t entirely sure your symptoms are related to hemorrhoids, it’s time to talk with a specialist like Dr. Patel. 

At Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, we offer expert care for prevention and treatment, and may recommend prescription medications or minimally invasive procedures (like banding) for relief.

You can reach the Bay Area Gastroenterology Associates, LLC team at 727-372-4500. Or, book an appointment through our online scheduling tool to visit our Trinity, Florida, office.