When people figure out they’ve formed a bleeding hemorrhoid problem, they may become alarmed. How has something like this happened to them? What causes such a problem? Whatever can they do to prevent it from happening in the future? First, it’s important to understand that this is a common problem. Likewise, it is often caused by the little things you do in your lifestyle. It isn’t anything to worry about unless you notice serious symptoms. A little bleeding, discomfort, and itchiness are the typical symptoms and with a few slight changes you can keep it from happening again.
One reason behind the development of bleeding hemorrhoids is the bowel habits that people maintain. Understanding some of the ways your body works as well as how you may be working against it can give you some insight into how you may have created problems and how you can make changes. While on the whole, healthy bowel habits can vary slightly from person to person, there are several things you should and should not do while using the bathroom.
First, only go when you feel the urge to do so. There’s no need to attempt to pass stool when your body is only telling you to urinate. Motion frequency depends upon the person and their health and diet, so if you are concerned you haven’t passed stool in a few days, that’s perfectly okay. As long as you aren’t experiencing difficulty, a few times a week is just as healthy as a few times a day.
Once you do feel the urge to use the bathroom, don’t put it off. If you constantly think, “I can go in a few hours instead,” you may only be setting yourself up for a bout of constipation. Larger and harder bowel moments can lead to excess straining, which can lead to the creation of bleeding hemorrhoids. Allow your body to relieve itself naturally, as it will create the pushing motion itself. It may need a little extra push from time to time, but overall, don’t force it.
If you do feel the need to push, don’t hold your breath. Holding your breath and pushing only puts undue pressure on the veins in the anus, which can cause problems. Instead, gently push while breathing out so the force is exerted from the lower part of the body where the intestines are actually located.
It should only take a few minutes to finish. Don’t sit on the toilet for a longer period of time than necessary. Do not read while on the toilet. People have been trained since birth that the toilet is where our bodies empty waste, so those areas tend to relax (for urination) or push (for defecation) while sitting. If there is nothing to empty, unnecessary pressure is placed on the anus as you read even if you are not aware.
So go to the bathroom once you feel the need, use it without rushing, and then walk away. These simple steps can save you a whole lot of trouble later on.