Blog Post

Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable and frustrating topic to discuss, but they are incredibly common. If you are dealing with this discomfort, you are not alone in your struggle.

At Gateway Gastroenterology, Dr. Taylor Geisman and our team of specialists help patients find relief and protect their digestive health. We serve communities across Missouri at our office in Chesterfield.

About 1 in 20 Americans experiences bothersome hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. While many people associate this condition with aging, it can actually affect adults of any age.

Why do hemorrhoids develop? 

Understanding the root causes of hemorrhoids is the first step toward preventing them. The  main cause is increased pressure in the lower rectum, often from straining during bowel movements or sitting for long periods.

When you experience chronic constipation or spend too much time on the toilet, you put extra stress on the delicate blood vessels in your anal area. Over time, this pressure causes the veins to stretch, swell, and bulge.

8 tips for preventing hemorrhoids

Preventing hemorrhoids often comes down to making simple adjustments to your daily routine. You can significantly lower your risk of developing swollen veins by eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, avoiding straining, using a toilet stool, staying active, and following these other guidelines.

1. Eat more fiber: Adding fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet softens your stools and increases their bulk.
2. Stay well-hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day keeps your stools soft and easy to pass.
3. Don’t fight the urge: Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need, as delaying a bowel movement can cause stools to dry out and become harder to pass.
4. Avoid straining: Pushing or holding your breath during a bowel movement creates intense pressure in your lower rectum.
5. Use a toilet stool: Elevating your feet with a step stool changes the angle of your rectum, which a study from Harvard Health Publishing (2023) shows allows for easier passage of stools.
6. Limit your toilet time: Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods, especially while reading or using your phone, as this position increases pressure on anal veins.
7. Stay active: Regular physical activity helps prevent constipation and reduces the pressure on your veins that occurs with prolonged standing or sitting.
8. Seek professional guidance: If lifestyle changes do not bring relief, a specialist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend targeted therapies.

When to seek professional care

While simple daily habits make a massive difference, some symptoms require expert medical attention. If you notice rectal bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that do not improve after a week of home care, it is time to consult a gastroenterologist.

At our practice, we offer comprehensive evaluations to rule out more serious conditions and ensure you get the right treatment. While we focus on conservative management, we also provide referrals to our colleagues in colorectal surgery to discuss procedural treatment and surgery  when necessary.

You do not have to live with the discomfort and disruption of hemorrhoids. If you want to discuss your symptoms or need to schedule a routine colonoscopy, we are here to help. Please call or message our office today to schedule an appointment with our team.