Haemorrhoids: 8 Everyday Habits, and When to See a Doctor
Unhurried toilet habits, fibre, water, gentle hygiene, cotton: 8 habits for times of haemorrhoid discomfort, and the signs that call for a doctor.
Haemorrhoids are a normal network of blood vessels in the anal canal. When these vessels become swollen and irritated, discomfort sets in: heaviness, warmth, itching, sometimes a little red blood on the paper. Men and women are equally affected, especially between 40 and 65, and it is common in late pregnancy and after giving birth. The subject is still taboo, yet everyday habits matter. Here are the ones recommended by the French national health insurance (Assurance Maladie). Constipation often plays a part: also read our article on constipation.
1. Go to the toilet without straining
If possible at a fixed time, half an hour to an hour after a meal. Let it come, without pushing hard.
2. Don't linger on the seat
Take your time, but don't stay seated on the toilet for long. The phone can stay outside.
3. Increase fibre, gradually
Wholegrain starches, pulses, green vegetables and high-fibre fruit. Increase wholegrains little by little, to let your gut get used to them.
4. Drink at least 1.5 litres of water a day
Fibre needs water to do its job. Go easy on alcohol.
5. Spot what triggers your flare-ups
Limit fatty, sugary or very spicy dishes, especially if you notice they trigger a flare-up.
6. Move regularly
Regular physical activity, while avoiding carrying heavy loads. If you work sitting down, get up regularly: prolonged sitting is one of the contributing factors.
7. Gentle hygiene
After each bowel movement, clean gently with damp paper, without soap. Dry the skin well, also after showering.
8. Cotton, and nothing tight
Cotton underwear and clothes that don't compress.
In case of pain or irritation, your pharmacist can recommend an over-the-counter cream or suppository, or paracetamol for a short time. If symptoms persist for a few days, see your doctor.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor from the first bleeding from the anus, or if bleeding recurs: an examination is recommended to rule out another condition. Also see a doctor if symptoms become hard to bear day to day.
See a doctor as soon as possible in case of heavy, repeated bleeding, very black stools, intense pain with a fever above 38 °C, sudden and very intense pain, or if you have not been able to pass a stool for more than 48 hours.
A time to unwind, designed for periods of discomfort
When discomfort is there, we tense up, and the pelvis with us. I designed the Intimate comfort listening programme for people going through periods of haemorrhoid discomfort, alongside their medical care: 5 sessions of 30 minutes, one every 3 days, lying down with a cushion under your knees. It does not treat haemorrhoids and does not replace your doctor's advice. To discover the method, the first session of the Anti-Stress programme is free.
Éric Rosati, osteopath with 30 years of experience. This article is for information and does not replace your doctor's advice.
Sources (in French): Assurance Maladie, Haemorrhoids: what to do and when to see a doctor · Assurance Maladie, definition, contributing factors and symptoms
🎧 Recommended programme: Intimate comfort · haemorrhoids
To listen to with headphones, in a quiet place, at your own pace.