It’s not always easy to talk about hemorrhoids, but the reality is that they’re a very common condition. According to the experts at Mayo Clinic, 1 out of every 20 individuals has dealt with hemorrhoids, and as many as 50% of adults over the age of 50 have at least one.

Believe it or not, hemorrhoids are swollen veins, similar to varicose veins. At the Vein Institute, we provide the vascular care you need, and that includes diagnosis and treatment for stubborn hemorrhoids. If you’re tired of dealing with the pain and discomfort of a hemorrhoid, we may suggest an infrared coagulation procedure to painlessly eliminate the problem.

In the meantime, there are a number of lifestyle tips you can try to manage mild hemorrhoids at home.

1. Focus on fiber

Fiber is an essential part of any healthy diet, but it can also help you manage hemorrhoids at home. Fiber can:

• Soften stools

• Increase the bulk of stools

• Reduce the chance of straining

Fiber can be found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and supplements. If you’re not used to eating a lot of fiber, incorporate it slowly into your diet to reduce the likelihood of gas pain.

2. Take a Bath

If you already have hemorrhoids, soaking in a sitz bath can reduce discomfort. A sitz bath is a shallow tub designed to soak just the perineum. However, it’s possible to use your regular tub.

Fill the sitz tub with warm water and add ½ cup of Epsom salts. Soak for 15 minutes. After soaking, pat — don’t rub — the affected area with a soft cloth until dry.

3. Stick with a schedule

Constipation and prolonged straining are two risk factors when it comes to hemorrhoids. If you’re at risk for hemorrhoids or already have them, it’s a good idea to try and stick with a regular bathroom schedule. Delaying going to the bathroom (when you need to) could create more pain and discomfort later if the stools become harder.

4. Avoid prolonged sitting

Hemorrhoids are a type of swollen vein. If you sit for too many hours without taking a break, it can place too much pressure on those veins, which can make hemorrhoids worse.

This includes sitting:

• In the car for long trips

• At a desk for long hours

• For too long on the toilet

Try to stand up and move around at least once an hour. If it’s uncomfortable sitting at your desk, try a donut-shaped pillow for added comfort.

5. Exercise regularly

Exercise is good for your entire mind and body, including all of your veins. Regular exercise can help you manage hemorrhoids in a few ways.

It can:

• Help combat constipation

• Help prevent prolonged sitting

• Help you manage your weight (if weight is a contributing factor to your hemorrhoids)

In addition to these lifestyle tips, you may find that OTC topical creams provide added relief.

Seek help when you need it

Lifestyle changes — such as incorporating more exercise into your daily routine — can be great for preventing future hemorrhoids, but what if you’ve got a stubborn hemorrhoid now? Infrared coagulation, which coagulates the blood in the veins through heat energy, can quickly eliminate the pesky problem.

Don’t suffer with hemorrhoids any more, get the relief you need! To schedule an appointment, call the location of your choice Fairfield, Newtown and Shelton Connecticut, or request an appointment online.