Hemorrhoids are rarely life-threatening but they can be very uncomfortable. In fact, some will notice how their hemorrhoids have greatly affected their quality of life, and now with warmer weather, many wonder if fun summer trips are possible even with hemorrhoids. The specialists at Premier Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN want you to understand hemorrhoids and how to treat them, in order for you to live your best life, hemorrhoid-free.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids develop from increased pressure in the lower rectal area. They can be a result of constant straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, obesity, pregnancy, and anal intercourse.
People who are at high risk of developing them include those who have low fiber in their diet, obese individuals, heavy weightlifters, pregnant women, and those who have a sedentary lifestyle or those who have jobs that require prolonged periods of sitting (i.e. drivers, office workers).
Can you travel comfortably with hemorrhoids?
With adequate preparation, it’s possible to travel comfortably with hemorrhoids. Here are some tips that may help you:
If you’ll be sitting for long periods of time for a trip, invest in a good hemorrhoid pillow or cushion.
A hemorrhoid pillow or cushion is highly recommended if you are experiencing hemorrhoid pain while sitting. The extra padding from the cushion can reduce the pressure from the hemorrhoids. This, in turn, can help reduce the pain out of sitting.
Get enough fibrous food.
Constipation is one of the biggest risk factors for developing hemorrhoids. Fortunately, this can be prevented by making sure that you’re getting enough fiber in your diet.
About 25 to 30 grams of fiber is usually recommended for an adult. You can easily meet this requirement by including leafy greens, legumes, and whole grains in your diet.
Take it easy with laxatives.
When you’re constipated, it can be very tempting to use laxatives to ease it a bit. While they can be helpful, these laxatives can cause intestinal contractions, leading to hemorrhoid pressures.
Drink plenty of water.
Staying well-hydrated is as important as having a high fiber diet in preventing hemorrhoid flare-ups.
The best way to stay hydrated especially this season is by drinking plenty of water. Bringing a reusable water bottle with you can help in reminding you to take sips of water all throughout the day.
Keep moving.
Having good, regular physical activity can help keep your colon healthy (being sedentary is a risk factor for developing or aggravating the existing hemorrhoids). So, try to incorporate physical activities on your trip.
If your hemorrhoids are causing you too much pain and discomfort, you may want to consider having them removed.
Premier Surgical Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Knoxville, TN offers a quick, non-surgical laser procedure that eliminates 90 percent of painful hemorrhoids. And, hemorrhoid treatment is covered by most insurance plans!. For more information or to request an appointment, call our Confidential Hemorrhoid Hotline at (865) 588-9952.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268#:~:text=Hemorrhoids%20can%20develop%20from%20increased,Having%20chronic%20diarrhea%20or%20constipation