Statistics say that at least half of the population of old people will experience hemorrhoids. This is because the body becomes weaker as we age thus making the elderly more prone to diseases like hemorrhoids. People aged 45 years old and above are more prone to hemorrhoids. When you have hemorrhoids, you will experience some pain, itching and bleeding. There are a lot of factors which may cause hemorrhoids. If you have hemorrhoids or you know someone old who does, it will be best to have enough knowledge about hemorrhoids. Read this article about hemorrhoids in the elderly to know the important facts about hemorrhoids.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
There are blood vessels called veins and arteries which can be found in the anus and rectum. These blood vessels supply the said areas with oxygen and carry away the blood which contains carbon dioxide and wastes.
Hemorrhoids are those blood vessels which have become swollen and inflamed. Hemorrhoids are also called piles as they resemble grapes when they are located outside. Two types of hemorrhoids are internal and external.
Causes of Hemorrhoids in the Elderly
One of the causes of hemorrhoids in old people is constipation. This is a condition which is common in old people because of lifestyle changes. They tend to eat foods that have low fiber and that are easy to chew. A low fiber diet will make it difficult for the body to digest food and this will make the stool harder and more difficult to pass. When constipated, pressure is put upon the blood vessels surrounding the rectum and the anus. Also, older people have weaker sphincter muscles so they will really strain during bowel movements.
Another cause is soilage. As said earlier, the sphincter muscles of old people are already weak. This may cause excess soilage as it will be harder for them to control the bowel movement. Excessive leakage will cause the blood vessels to be irritated therefore causing hemorrhoids.
What Should You Do to Treat Hemorrhoids?
First is that you should increase your fiber intake. Eat foods like fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, brown rice and whole wheat bread. If you have difficulty eating such foods then you may steam or blend these to make these softer. You may also try using powdered fiber supplements.
You must also avoid laxatives as these can cause hemorrhoids and aggravate your condition. Just eat high fiber foods instead of using laxatives if you are constipated.
Drink lots of water, at least 8 glasses daily. Doing this will make your body hydrated always thus preventing hard stools.
Exercising a few minutes every day will also help. Old people lack physical activity thus causing hemorrhoids. If you can, try to walk for a few minutes or do something like ballroom dancing.
Do not eat salty foods as too much salt can make you dehydrated and cause dry stools.
Those are the few things you need to know about hemorrhoids in the elderly. Use everything which you have learned here to manage your condition better and eventually get rid of your hemorrhoids.
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