Complications of hemorrhoids

Complications of hemorrhoids include anemia and strangulated hemorrhoids. Chronic blood loss from hemorrhoids may cause anemia, in which you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your cells, resulting in fatigue and weakness.

Strangulated hemorrhoid: If blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid is cut off, the hemorrhoid may be “strangulated,” which can cause extreme pain and lead to tissue death (gangrene). The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft so that they pass out easily. To prevent hemorrhoids and reduce symptoms of hemorrhoids, follow the following health tips:

Eat high-fiber foods: Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Doing so softens the stool and increases its bulk, which will help you avoid the straining that can cause hemorrhoids or worsen symptoms from existing hemorrhoids. Add fiber to your diet slowly to avoid problems with gas.

Drink plenty of fluids: Drink six to eight glasses of water and other liquids (not alcohol) each day to help keep stools soft. Also consider fiber supplements. Most people don’t get enough of the recommended amount of fiber — 20 to 35 grams a day — in their diet. Studies have shown that over-the-counter fiber supplements, such as Metamucil and Citrucel, improve overall symptoms and bleeding from hemorrhoids. These products help keep stools soft and regular. If you use fiber supplements, be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids every day. Otherwise, the supplements can cause constipation or make constipation worse.

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