Preparation (what the) H? 7 Ways to deal with Hemorrhoids

Over the age of 40, our bodies change. One area that is discussed at length is to reduce the intake of carbohydrate and increase protein. If you lower the amount of fiber however, and take into account an estrogen, or progesterone imbalance, you may be plagued by today’s discussed symptom: hemorrhoids.

Among the seemingly endless list of potential and unpleasant side effects of peri/menopause are piles or hemorrhoids. Although they can occur at any age, approximately half of all women will experience them by the age 50. Hemorrhoids (HEM-uh-roids) are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They can develop either inside the rectum or under the skin around the anus and, under some circumstances, can bleed. The likeliness of bleeding may increase based on various conditions including prior childbirth, chronic constipation, and prolonged sitting. Let’s just say, the last 2.5 years of social distancing and working from home have not improved the situation.

Signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids depend on the type. Externally they can cause: itching or irritation, pain or discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Internally patients usually cannot see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort. However, straining or irritation when passing stool may cause bleeding and while it is often painless, it is nevertheless scary to see. It is important to note a common mistake made by women during the onset of perimenopause.  Prior to the complete cessation of the menstrual period, many women may experience less regular menstrual bleeding, which is often mistaken for hemorrhoidal bleeding. Therefore, it is imperative for all women to know the origin of their bleeding and to recognize the existence hemorrhoids. A woman should always visit her doctor if she is concerned about any type of bleeding.

There are several treatment options ranging from suppositories, creams, and natural remedies to surgery, Suppositories are typically effective for treating the pain and itching but not the bleeding. A large selection of creams is available over the counter for use on external bleeding hemorrhoids. And some women choose to use natural remedies such as topical herbs and acupuncture has proven useful, too. Natural methods typically take longer to be effective than other treatment methods but are just as successful. 

At Vitelle, we want you to to get to the root of the problem and live healthy day to day. Bottomline is that even if they are caused by a hormonal imbalance, treating hemorrhoids with HRT is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. So we want to help and support your lifestyle with alternatives and small changes that can significantly reduce the new onset of piles and improve your symptoms and healing process once you experience them:

• Eat high-fiber foods. Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Doing so softens the stool and increases its bulk, which will help you avoid straining. Add fiber to your diet and combat constipation with prunes, apples and artichokes.

• Gently wipe the area with witch hazel or do a sitzbath. An important tool for postpartum mothers, this is also a remedy for painful and itchy piles. Don’t dilute in alcohol but apply by dabbing on the area directly.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Drink six to eight glasses of water and other liquids like tea (not alcohol or too much caffeine) each day to keep things moving. Consider adding an electrolyte tablet like Nuun, especially during warmer months to up the quality of your water and avoid dehydration.

• Don't strain and get a squatty potty. Straining creates greater pressure and is generally not recommended. Improving your pelvic position by elevating your feet with your kids’ step stool or a squatty potty, should improve your experience.

• Go as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait to pass a bowel movement and the urge goes away, your stool could dry out and be harder to pass.

• Exercise. Stay active to help prevent constipation and support healthy bowel movements. Exercising in zone 2 can also help you improve your fat oxidation and lose excess weight that can creep up during perimenopause and that might be contributing to your predicament.

• Avoid long periods of sitting. Sitting too long can increase the pressure on your pelvis and veins in the rectum. Schedule regular intervals of standing up and moving around.

• Spend a few breaths in a goddess squat for optimal curvature of your lumbar spine and add kegels to your daily lifestyle. Pretend you are holding the stream of "needing to pee” and then release for the same amount of time, totally relaxing your pelvic area. The exhalation and relaxation are as important as the engaging and inhalation.