The term ‘hemorrhoids’ refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are inflamed & swollen. Hemorrhoids generally result from straining to move stool & can be caused by chronic constipation or diarrhea. Basically, there are two kinds of hemorrhoids, internal & external. According to some authorities, one third of all adults have hemorrhoids & in many cases are unaware of having them. They are very common in both men & women, & about half of the population will have hemorrhoids by the age of 50.
A dry, hard, compacted stool causes considerable straining for evacuation, leading to increased pressure in the veins, resulting in a ballooning out & breakdown of the vein wall. The standard american diet (SAD), is one of the greatest contributing factors. The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to maintain a healthy colon & keep stools soft so they pass effortlessly. Exercise, including walking, a high fiber diet & drinking plenty of water helps reduce constipation & straining by producing stools that are easier to pass.