Prolonged toilet sitting is a common habit among our hemorrhoid patients. Most patients with internal hemorrhoids reports sitting on toilet seat between 10 and 20 minutes. Prolonged toilet sitting increases pressure in anorectal veins and weakens pelvic floor muscles; two direct causes for hemorrhoid development and growth.
You can avoid prolonged toilet sitting by changing certain lifestyle and dietary habits that promote soft regular bowel movements:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water especially during the hot Houston summer. Consume a fiber rich diet and supplement with Benefiber powder as needed to soften your stool. Soft stools prevent straining during a bowel movement and decrease toilet sitting time. Furthermore, avoid bringing your phone or a book to the bathroom. Plan to sit on the toilet for 3 minutes max. If nothing happens, get off the toilet and try later.
Lastly, avoid prolonged sitting. Take breaks by standing up and moving around every 1 to 2 hours. Avoid weight gain by eating healthy and exercising on a routine basis.
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms like bleeding, pain, or discomfort, give us a call at 832-915-2529. Hemorrhoid banding, a simple, safe and reliable office-based procedure eliminates troublesome internal hemorrhoids.