How to Manage a Common, but Embarrassing Health Problem

(StatePoint) If you have experienced hemorrhoids, you know just how uncomfortable this condition can be. On top of the pain, you may have experienced feelings of embarrassment when discussing or addressing the symptoms with your doctor. But remember, an estimated 10 to 23 million individuals in the United States suffer from the same condition, and it is particularly common among pregnant women.

Hemorrhoids, which may be caused by constipation, diarrhea, straining while going to the bathroom and increased pressure on veins, or hormone changes during pregnancy, are enlarged blood vessels around the anus, located either externally or internally.

Luckily, there are a few key habits you can adopt to help you alleviate the associated pain, itching and discomfort, as well as treatment solutions that offer quick relief. Here is what you need to know:

Healthy Living
For starters, proper nutrition is key. Diets low in fiber may be a contributing factor to hemorrhoids, so be sure to incorporate fiber-rich foods like flax seeds, beans, avocados and brown rice in your daily diet. Try adding flaxseeds into your smoothie each morning for a fiber boost — they won’t affect the flavor. Opt for whole grains over processed enriched breads and rice.

Keep your body properly hydrated. Doing so will help your metabolism operate at peak performance and avoid hemorrhoids caused by constipation. Prioritize hydration, because it’s not only helpful for avoiding constipation and in turn hemorrhoids, but it’s essential to overall good health.

Exercise regularly. Exercise not only aids the digestive system, it can help you maintain a healthy weight — an important consideration as excess weight in your abdomen can increase your chances of developing hemorrhoids. This is especially important if you have a sedentary job and sit most of the day.

Treat the Problem
Unfortunately, following every wellness tip in the book won’t always keep hemorrhoids at bay. When symptoms do flare up, be prepared to treat them. If you are prone to the condition, be sure to keep a portable kit with you that contains everything you need to manage the condition effectively and hygienically.

A convenient option found at most major pharmacy retailers is the RectiCare Complete Hemorrhoid Care System, which is recommended by colon and rectal surgeons. It contains a cream and eight individually packaged wipes. Both are formulated with the highest strength over-the-counter ingredients available without a prescription. Lidocaine 5%, a local anesthetic, allows for fast pain relief, and phenylephrine HCl helps shrink swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. The cream is ideal for use at home and a supply of 10 “finger cots” promote hygienic application, while the wipes are not only discreet, but medicated for on-the-go relief, no matter where you are. More information can be found at RectiCare.com.

Whether your pregnancy is causing you a temporary struggle with hemorrhoids or you have been suffering for years, don’t ignore the pain and discomfort. Simple solutions can help you avoid symptoms and treat them quickly when they do occur.