Patient was educated regarding risk factors for development of hemorrhoids in senior citizens as follows:
- Straining at stool is the main cause for hemorrhoid development. Long-term pressure on the veins in the anorectal region during bowel movement result in swelling of these veins, giving rise to hemorrhoids.
- Bulk to stool is needed to draw water from the intestines and maintain the stool soft. Low insoluble fiber in the diet results in lack of bulk to stool and consequently, less water added to stool. This makes the stool hard and so, is difficult to have a bowel movement.
- Chronically constipated individuals are at increased risk for hemorrhoid development, secondary to the increased pressure they have been exerting on veins in the anorectal region for prolonged periods of time.
- Unhygienic practice of sitting on the toilet for extensive periods of time, in anticipation of having a bowel movement, is a strong risk factor. Individuals with this habit, unknowingly exert extra pressure on the veins in anorectal region, contributing to development of hemorrhoids.
- Senior citizens have diminished sensitivity to thirst and so, have a tendency for diminished fluid intake. Low fluid intake results in less water added to stool. In this situation, colon tries to save water aggressively for the metabolic needs of the body, by increasing water absorption from the intestines. This makes the stool even harder and difficult to have a bowel movement.
