Did you know that the older people get, the higher their chances of catching hemorrhoids? Aging is one of the major factors when speaking of hemorrhoid development besides pregnancy, constipation, diarrhea, and poor diet. This is true because of the changes in the aging body and the changes in their lifestyle through the years.

In the United States alone, there are at least 10 million people who are suffering from hemorrhoids. When speaking of hemorrhoids in the elderly, one study revealed that half of the population reaching the age 50 will more likely get hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids and Aging

Chronic constipation, which is one of the major causes of hemorrhoids, happens often to the elderly. This is because most of the foods they eat are hardly processed by their fragile digestive system. With food processing very slow, the stool becomes hard and so it becomes difficult to pass. If there is frequent straining, there are bigger chances of developing hemorrhoids. With age, the blood vessels become thicker and so become less elastic. This means that with little straining, there is already an increased chance of them getting hemorrhoids.

Another age-related reason for the development of hemorrhoids is soilage. The sphincter muscles of older people become weak which makes it difficult to control their bowel movements. With this, leakage usually occurs in the anus and this often results in the accumulation of bacteria in the area. After some time, the skin will become irritated and the bacteria will affect the blood vessels. This will result to inflammation in the area which will eventually cause hemorrhoids.

Preventing Hemorrhoids in Aging People

Since it is true that the elderly population is more prone to hemorrhoids, it is just right for them to make a way to prevent the condition from ever going their way. One of the best ways to prevent hemorrhoids in aging people is to have a healthy diet. It is best for them to eat lots of fiber and take lots of fluid to help form soft stools. Since soft stools are easier to pass during bowel movement, straining the rectal area is often avoided.

However, it must be noted that high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, and grains must be taken in manageable portions so that their digestive system will not be strained too much when processing them.

Also, it is important for the elderly to check their underwear from time to time so as to ensure that there is no undue elimination of feces or urine that can cause irritation and inflammation in the rectal area. Most of the time, practicing good hygiene and regular toilet habits will have a lot to do with the prevention of hemorrhoids.

See a Doctor when Hemorrhoids Occur

Although hemorrhoids are more common in older people, this condition must not be taken for granted. This is especially true because bleeding hemorrhoids can cause blood loss in older people, which is a delicate condition for them. Hence, when an elderly individual begins to experience symptoms of hemorrhoids, a doctor must immediately be consulted for proper evaluation and treatment.