Has sitting become the hardest part of the day for you? Do you sometimes feel a sharp, relentless pain when you sit? This is not just discomfort but a torture that interrupts your daily life, making the simplest tasks unbearable. This is the reality of many living with haemorrhoids, a common yet misunderstood condition. Haemorrhoids affect about 50% of adults who are age 50 and above.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. Everyone is born with hemorrhoidal tissues, which can become inflamed due to straining during bowel movements, putting pressure on them. This condition affects us physically and emotionally, as it can undermine our confidence. After all, no one likes to talk about experiencing pain in the a**. However, you can’t effectively manage a condition if you don’t understand it.
While the condition is common, affecting millions, the stigma and embarrassment surrounding it often prevent patients from seeking help. This article aims to break the stigma associated with this condition.
Types of Haemorrhoids
There are two types of haemorrhoids:
- Internal haemorrhoids: These are located inside the rectum and are not visible. They may protrude through the anus, causing discomfort.
- External haemorrhoids: These are located under the skin around the anus. When swollen, they can be very painful and may cause itching or bleeding.
Hemorrhoids can also be classified according to their severity:
- Internal haemorrhoids that do not prolapse.
- Internal haemorrhoids that prolapse when strained but retract on their own.
- Internal haemorrhoids that prolapse and need to be manually pushed back in.
- Internal haemorrhoids that are prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in.
Causes of Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids can be caused by several factors, primarily straining during bowel movements, which increases pressure in the lower rectum, causing veins to swell and become inflamed. Chronic constipation or diarrhoea can also lead to haemorrhoids. Pregnant women are particularly prone to this condition due to the increased pressure on rectal veins from the growing uterus and hormonal changes.
Additionally, as mentioned earlier, haemorrhoids are common in individuals over 50 years old, making age a factor.
Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can contribute to haemorrhoids. Spending extended time on the toilet while using your phone or checking social media can worsen the problem. If you’re struggling to pass a bowel movement, it’s better to stand up and try again later rather than sitting for too long. Prolonged sitting is harmful to your health and can increase the risk of developing haemorrhoids.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Factors that increase the risk of haemorrhoids are a low-fibre diet, a sedentary lifestyle, anal intercourse, and heavy lifting. Common symptoms of haemorrhoids are itching, bleeding, pain, swelling, protrusion, and a sensation of incomplete bowel movement. If symptoms are severe, it is essential to seek medical attention. A physician will conduct a physical examination and may perform additional tests as needed.
Pain Management Tips
Although it’s not Christmas yet, I come bearing gifts— the good news is that haemorrhoids are treatable.
For immediate relief, over-the-counter creams and ointments like Anusol and Anugesic can soothe pain and itching. Warm sitz baths are another effective remedy, providing comfort and reducing inflammation. In severe cases, medical procedures like Rubber band ligation or surgical removal may be necessary.
Simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Increasing fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can ease bowel movements and reduce strain. Staying hydrated and exercising regularly also promotes healthy digestion.
However, beyond the physical pain, it’s crucial to address the emotional toll haemorrhoids take. The shame and isolation many feel can be as crippling as the condition itself. Open conversations and awareness can help break down these barriers, encouraging those affected to seek help without fear of judgment.
Preventive Measures
Increase your fibre intake, stay hydrated, and limit processed food. Engage in regular physical activity and avoid delaying or straining during bowel movements. Don’t sit for long periods, especially on the toilet. Limiting time spent sitting and scrolling on social media can help. Maintain a healthy weight and keep the anal area clean. Proper hygiene in that area is crucial.
Deborah, a 32-year-old mum of 2 suffered haemorrhoids after vaginal delivery. “It was a whole new level of pain. I kept asking God why I would go through the pains of contractions, delivery and healing sutures just to meet haemorrhoids at the front.”
Ayo, a 21-year-old, dreaded office hours because sitting for long periods caused her discomfort. To alleviate the pressure, she would stand up and take strolls at intervals.
Their stories aren’t unique as many women endure this silent torment, hoping it will go away on its own. They eventually found relief through a combination of dietary changes and medical treatment.
In Conversation with a Nutritionist
Can you introduce yourself and your brand/services? How long have you been working as a Nutritionist?
Hi, my name is Eseoghene Asagba but you can call me Ese, the nutritionist. I have been a certified nutritionist for over a year and my goal is to empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to make informed food choices. If you’re looking to improve your personal health or optimize nutrition for your company, I’m here to guide you on your wellness journey. You can reach out here: [email protected].
What foods should women include in their diet to prevent or manage haemorrhoids?
A diet rich in fibre plays a crucial role in preventing haemorrhoids. It adds bulk to your stool, making it softer and easier to pass and promotes regular bowel movements. Fibre can be found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Although excessive fibre without adequate water intake can worsen the problem, so ensure you always stay properly hydrated.
Are there specific foods or ingredients that can worsen haemorrhoids and should be avoided?
Well, it is important to limit your intake of highly processed foods and possibly avoid sugary drinks and alcohol. They can contribute to dehydration and worsen constipation.
How much fibre should women aim to consume daily, and what are some high-fibre foods they can include in their diet?
The daily recommended intake of fibre is 25 grams. Some high-fiber foods you can include in your diet are Oats, Brown rice, Corn, Beans, Groundnuts, Fruits and Vegetables.
How does staying hydrated help haemorrhoid prevention and management?
Drinking enough water helps to soften your stool and prevent dehydration which can lead to constipation.
Can you suggest a sample meal plan that includes foods beneficial for haemorrhoid prevention and relief?
A sample meal plan can look like this:
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Are there any lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, that can help manage haemorrhoids?
Yes. Diet is very important but you also need to adopt other measures like engaging in regular exercise to strengthen your pelvic muscles, avoiding sitting for too long to prevent blood from pooling in the veins of your rectum, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding straining while using the toilet, and limiting the time spent on the toilet.
What are some common misconceptions or myths about diet and haemorrhoids that you would like to debunk?
“Spicy foods are the cause of haemorrhoids”. No. Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure on the veins in the lower rectum and anus, usually due to straining and constipation.
“Dairy products make hemorrhoids worse”. Some people may experience lactose intolerance which leads to digestive discomfort but dairy doesn’t directly contribute to hemorrhoids.
What general advice would you give to women looking to improve their overall digestive health?
To improve your digestive health, follow this advice:
- Stay hydrated.
- Reduce your intake of highly processed foods.
- Include probiotic foods like yoghurt, pap, tuwo shinkafa, Iru(locust beans), garri and fufu.
- Be physically active.
- Manage stress and get enough sleep.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
The hardest part may be admitting that you need help, eventually, you will be thankful you did so cause there would be a change.
Hemorrhoids may be a literal pain in the ass, but they don’t have to control your life. With understanding, proper management, and a bit of courage, you can overcome this common condition and reclaim your comfort and confidence.
