Speaking of butt pain, a large percentage of South Africans suffer from hemorrhoid symptoms (sometimes called Jedijedi and officially known as hemorrhoids). But how do you treat hemorrhoids? And can you use a natural remedy? Here’s everything you need to know about the annoying little jerks.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids (known as haemorrhoids in South Africa) are swollen veins around the anus that are characterized by itching and pain. Hemorrhoids can be located in the rectum, where you may notice small amounts of bright red blood on the toilet paper. They can also appear on the anus, protrude and cause pain and itching.
Hemorrhoids form when increased pressure is placed on the anus, causing the veins in that area to swell and eventually bulge. Increased pressure can cause hemorrhoids if you sit on the toilet for a long time. Unfortunately, the prevalence of hemorrhoids has increased dramatically in recent years as more and more people spend their throne time doomscrolling.
“Rrhoids can also result from constipation, which leads to extra toilet time.” This causes the surrounding vessels and veins to become stressed and inflamed, says gastrointestinal specialist Dr. Gina Sam. For the same reason, people who sit all day can also be plagued by hemorrhoids: sitting on their buttocks (even while sitting) can also put strain on the veins down there. Pregnant women are particularly affected by the problem, says Dr. Sam firmly. This could be due to the congestion, blood flow, and increased pressure of the baby bump, she says.
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Main symptoms of hemorrhoids
Although butt problems aren’t exactly easy to spot, you may be able to spot them if you have external hemorrhoids – lumps that are located in or around your anus. Otherwise, you might feel the enlarged bumps when you wipe, says Dr. Sam.
Other symptoms, sometimes called Jedijedi, are categorized by pain, swelling, itching, and irritation in the area.
How to treat hemorrhoids
It’s best to get to the root of the problem and treat not just the symptoms, but the root cause, says Dr. Sam. For example, if you suffer from constipation, it’s time to think carefully about your diet. “You should eat at least 25 to 30 g of fiber per day and drink eight to ten glasses of water,” says Dr. Sam.
So stock up on foods like apples, spinach, whole grain bread, lentils, beans and nuts. Then, when you’re on the toilet, limit your time (read: no cell phones allowed!) to limit potential overexertion. (You may not even realize you’re doing it.)
Chained to a desk? Make sure you take a break every 15 minutes or so, even if it’s just to drink some water and walk around. Constant sitting can not only cause the hemorrhoids themselves, but can also make the problem worse, says Dr. Sam. You could also try a standing desk. Other factors that contribute to hemorrhoids include heavy lifting, pregnancy, anal sex or obesity.
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Are there natural remedies for hemorrhoids?
Fortunately, natural remedies can be as simple as eating more fiber, drinking more water, or applying a cold compress to the affected area. This could be an ice pack wrapped in fabric. Other natural treatments for hemorrhoids include soothing aloe vera, stool softeners, and sitz baths. Relief also comes from over-the-counter treatments such as AnuSol, an ointment, or suppositories.
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But remember: While these can help ease your symptoms and reduce inflammation, they are not a panacea. If the problem affects your everyday life or things get worse, contact your doctor, says Dr. Sam. A professional can surgically reduce blood flow to the hemorrhoid to make it smaller or administer injection therapy if you notice heavy bleeding or discomfort, she says. And change your toilet habits: Bring a book or treat it as much-needed time to clear your mind.
This story was originally written and updated by Cassie Shortsleeve.
