Simple diet change could relieve painful bathroom symptoms, experts say
Fox News • • general
Key Points:
- More than half of people over 50 experience hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins that can cause pain and rectal bleeding, according to the National Institutes of Health and medical sources.
- The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) released updated guidelines emphasizing lifestyle modifications, such as increased fiber intake and avoiding prolonged bathroom sitting, as first-line treatments rather than quick-fix products.
- Fiber helps reduce hemorrhoid flare-ups by softening stool and decreasing straining, but most Americans consume less than the recommended daily amount of fiber.
- The AGA cautions against overusing topical steroids due to potential skin thinning and advises that persistent rectal bleeding should be properly diagnosed to rule out more serious conditions.
- For severe or ongoing hemorrhoid cases, office-based procedures or surgery may be necessary after lifestyle changes and conservative treatments.
