Prevention
Prevention is better than cure. The best preventive measure is to adopt such habits that help you avoid straining and keep your stools soft so that they can pass easily and cause no pain. Follow these steps to prevent and reduce symptoms of hemorrhoids.
• Drink plenty of water
You should drink at least six to eight glasses of water or liquids (other than alcohol) every day to keep your stools soft.
• Use fiber supplements
Most people do not eat enough amount of fiber (standard fiber consumtion is 25 grams/day for women and 38 grams/day for men in their diet). Recent studies have revealed that the over-the-counter supplements of fiber, such as Citrucel and Metamucil, improve the bleeding, pain and other symptoms of hemorrhoids. While using fiber supplements, make sure that you drink six to eight glasses of water or other liquids per day. Otherwise, these fiber supplements can lead to constipation and make your symptoms worse.
• Do not strain
Holding your breath or straining while passing stools can generate greater pressure in the vessels within the lower rectum. Constant straining can lead to the formation of hemorrhoids.
• Avoid sitting too long
You should not sit for a long period, especially on the toilet seat as this can increase the venous pressure around the anus.
• Exercise
You must stay healthy and active to overcome pressure on veins and to prevent constipation, which may occur due to long periods of sitting or standing. You can lose excess weight by exercise, which can also prevent hemorrhoids.
