Anyone who has had piles (or hemorrhoids) knows just how painful, itchy and uncomfortable they can be....
What are Piles?
Piles are the result of swollen veins in the lower anus and rectum. They can cause tissue growths in and around the anus and can lead to significant discomfort. These growths can vary in size and location.
Signs and Symptoms:
Seeing blood in your toilet bowl after a bowel movement can be a shock, but it’s one of the main symptoms of piles. Other symptoms include:
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in your stool after a bowel movement
- Itching in the anal area
- Pain in the anal area, especially when sitting
- Pain during bowel movements
- One or more hard, painful lumps around the anus
If you experience any of these symptoms, avoid excess straining or rubbing, which can make irritation and itching worse, and can even lead to bleeding. In addition, try to pat the area dry instead of wiping it.
Factors that raise your risk of developing piles:
- Lack of fibre in the diet.
- Obesity: Being overweight can put pressure on the hemorrhoidal tissue.
- Aging: As we get older, the connective tissue in the rectum and anus becomes weaker, potentially resulting in bulging hemorrhoids.
Preventing piles:
People can lower their risk of developing piles with a range of lifestyle alterations, including:
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet: Staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in high-fiber foods can help keep stools soft and make their passing easier
- Avoiding straining when passing stools: Straining can increase the risk of developing piles
-Avoiding heavy lifting: Limiting heavy exertion and practicing proper lifting techniques can help a person prevent the development of piles
- Maintaining a moderate weight: Being overweight raises the risk of having piles
- Staying active: Exercise can help food passage through the digestive system and make stools more regular.
Remember to reach out to us if you have any questions!
As always, many, many blessings from Perfectly Healthy!