Constipation is thought to be one of the leading cause of haemorrhoids. Based on the very definition of a haemorrhoid, it’s easy to see why constipation and haemorrhoids are closely linked.
Normally, all people have haemorrhoids, as they are small vessels, (small veins and arteries), that carry blood to the anus area. The problem begins when the haemorrhoids get enlarged, swell, bleed and cause pain, often due to excessive straining. When this happens, then we are talking about haemorrhoids.
The treatments given by your doctor can certainly cure the symptoms of haemorrhoids, but as experienced doctors will tell you: it is always better to prevent haemorrhoids to begin with.
Do haemorrhoids cause constipation?
Sometimes, patients notice that their haemorrhoids flare up right around the same time a bout of constipation hits.. This leads some patients to wonder “Do haemorrhoids cause constipation?” The answer is no. In fact, it’s actually the other way around.
Constipation prolongs the time of visits to the bathroom and almost always causes unwanted strain on these veins.
Excessive straining due to constipation can inflate internal haemorrhoid or even push it out of the anus, causing pain, itching and / or bleeding.
If your haemorrhoids cause more discomfort, pain, or bleeding than usual, constipation is probably the cause.
How to avoid constipation and haemorrhoids
The three basic measures to help you with constipation – and therefore the three most important measures to prevent haemorrhoids – are adequate body hydration, regular exercise and fiber intake.
Fiber is the “first line of defence” against constipation and haemorrhoids, as they help bowel function. So make sure to include high fiber foods in your daily diet, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
Try to exercise regularly. Even daily walking will greatly help you if you are suffering from constipation or haemorrhoids.
And of course do not forget to drink plenty of water (about 8-10 glasses of water a day). Water will not only help you regulate your bowel movements in the event of constipation, it will also help you remove toxins.
Contact your doctor for more advice on avoiding or treating haemorrhoids.