"What Are the Precautions When Experiencing Hemorrhoids?"

Hemorrhoids (Piles) and Its Daily Management

Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are a prevalent anorectal disease. Patients are advised to pay attention to their diet, bowel movements, and lifestyle habits in daily life to avoid exacerbating or triggering hemorrhoid symptoms, thereby promoting good health. Here are some key points:

1. Diet

Patients should avoid spicy, irritating, greasy, and dried foods such as mala tang, fried chicken, and hot pot, as these may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, increase gastrointestinal burden, hinder bowel movements, and cause or worsen constipation. Instead, they can consume fresh fruits and vegetables like bananas, apples, celery, and cabbage, which help supplement vitamins and prevent dry stools and constipation. Additionally, drinking adequate water is crucial to soften stools and facilitate their smooth expulsion.

2. Bowel Movements

Maintaining good bowel habits is essential. Avoid prolonged toilet sessions and control the duration of bowel movements. Prolonged sitting should also be avoided; after about an hour of sitting, it is advisable to stand up and move around to promote gastrointestinal motility and alleviate constipation. If there is a sensation of needing to go, one should not delay.

3. Lifestyle Habits

During bowel movements, avoid excessive straining or frequently lifting heavy objects or looking upwards, as these may elevate intra-abdominal pressure and cause hemorrhoids to prolapse. Maintain perianal hygiene by frequently changing underwear and using sitz baths with warm water under medical guidance, which can improve local blood circulation and alleviate discomfort such as hemorrhoid swelling and pain.

4. Other Precautions

If a hemorrhoid patient experiences rectal bleeding, avoid heat therapies like hot compresses or infrared radiation, as they may aggravate bleeding. Furthermore, maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding long-term mental stress or anxiety is crucial for overall health. Regular sitz baths with warm water can help relax the anal sphincter and promote blood circulation. Good bowel habits, including regular and timely bowel movements, should also be upheld.