Maintaining good bathroom habits is essential for overall health and well-being. One common issue that affects many individuals is the development of piles (also known as hemorrhoids). Piles can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and bleeding, significantly impacting one’s quality of life. To address this concern, we’ll explore the insights provided by Arogyam Piles Clinic and Research Center in Mohali, Chandigarh, regarding the right way to use the toilet to avoid straining and the development of piles.
Understanding Piles:
Piles are swollen blood vessels in the anal region that can be internal or external. They may occur due to various factors such as chronic constipation, prolonged sitting on the toilet, straining during bowel movements, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. While medical intervention is necessary in severe cases, making simple changes in your toilet habits can help prevent the development or worsening of piles.
Insights from Arogyam Piles Clinic and Research Center:
- Maintain Regular Bowel Movements: To prevent straining during bowel movements, it’s crucial to maintain regularity. Eat a fiber-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Adequate fiber intake promotes soft and bulky stools, reducing the need for straining. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated helps prevent constipation.
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting on the Toilet: Sitting for long periods on the toilet can increase pressure on the anal region and contribute to the development of piles. Limit your time on the toilet to avoid unnecessary strain. If you find it difficult to pass stools within a few minutes, it may be helpful to revisit your diet and lifestyle choices to address any underlying issues.
- Adopt Correct Toilet Posture: Arogyam Piles Clinic recommends using the squatting position during bowel movements. This position, similar to squatting on the ground, aligns the rectum and anal canal, facilitating easier passage of stools. Consider using a squatting stool or placing your feet on a small step or platform to simulate a squatting position while sitting on the toilet.
- Practice Gentle Wiping: After a bowel movement, it’s essential to clean the anal area gently. Harsh wiping or using rough toilet paper can irritate the sensitive tissues and worsen existing piles. Opt for soft, unscented toilet paper or consider using wet wipes specifically designed for sensitive skin. Patting the area dry instead of rubbing can also help prevent irritation.
- Maintain Personal Hygiene: Maintaining proper personal hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and further discomfort. Clean the anal area with mild, unscented soap and warm water after each bowel movement. Avoid using harsh soaps, perfumed products, or excessive scrubbing, as these can aggravate the condition.
- Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking or moderate-intensity exercises, helps regulate bowel movements and promotes overall digestive health. Exercise improves blood circulation, reduces the risk of constipation, and aids in maintaining a healthy weight, all of which contribute to preventing piles.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If you experience persistent or severe symptoms of piles, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or visit a specialized clinic like Arogyam Piles Clinic and Research Center. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, offer personalized treatment options, and provide guidance on maintaining optimal toilet habits.
Conclusion:
Preventing the development or worsening of piles requires adopting healthy toilet habits and making simple lifestyle adjustments. By maintaining regular bowel movements, avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet, adopting the correct posture, practicing gentle wiping, maintaining personal hygiene, exercising regularly, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can significantly reduce the risk of piles and enjoy better overall digestive health. Remember, small changes in your daily routine can go a long way in promoting your well-being.
