The Elderly and Hemorrhoids

The Elderly and Hemorrhoids The elderly are known to get hemorrhoids more often than their younger counterparts. Weak anal sphincter muscles, coupled with other aging problems makes it possible to acquire hemorrhoids without them having to exert any strenuous effort. Uncontrollable Bowel Movement or Soilage One of the common factors that contribute to hemorrhoids on the elderly is soilage -- defined as uncontrollable bowel movement due to extremely weak anal sphincter muscles -- lack of control over these weak muscles cause inconsistent leaking of fecal matter from the anus. A condition called prolapse may also happen. This case is defined when the rectal lining falls outside the anus due to weakened anal sphincter muscles that is common in the elderly. Procidentia, or a condition when the entire anal canal wall slides out of the anus opening, is also possible. Constant occurrence of soilage may irritate hemorrhoidal veins in the lower rectum which subsequently leads to hemorrhoids. Chronic Constipation Leads To Hemorrhoids Eating food that is soft and easy to swallow is a common characteristic of the elder -- which leads to a condition called chronic constipation. These are mostly low in fiber that results to hard and dry stools which can be very difficult to remove; putting a strain on the lower rectum when forcing the feces out during bowel movement. It is quite common for an elderly to have weak anal sphincter muscles that makes it harder for them to pass stool. Most of them are making use of laxatives to help ease bowel movement but may eventually depend on them too much that it is almost impossible to get rid of fecal matter without its help. Lack of movement or exercise may also cause the anal sphincter muscles to weaken further that makes it almost impossible to pass stool -- which often leads to postponing bowel movement that results to an even harder or dryer stool that may be quite painful to get rid without the help of laxatives. Health Care Tips To Avoid Hemorrhoids In The Elderly Preventive measure is a necessary precaution to avoid possibilities of hemorrhoids on the elderly. Individuals who are in-charge of them may try one of these tips to help get rid of the problem: Using lubricants on the anal opening can help with bowel movement. Avoid using laxatives, but instead rely on alternative solutions -- such as eating raw food that has laxative properties, as well as stool softener that is rich in fiber. A fiber-rich diet reduces the chances of an elderly getting hemorrhoid. Plenty of liquids along with eating high-fiber food will result to an easier bowel movement. Elderly with hemorrhoids needs to sit on warm water to ease the pressure in the lower rectum or applying cold compress on the afflicted area. Utilizing natural herbal supplements to help in bowel movement without risk of complications.

08.07.2009. 09:38