Tips to Avoid Constipation and Piles in Old Age

Piles also referred to as hemorrhoids develop when the veins and blood vessels in the anal region are subjected to prolonged stress and pressure. These blood vessels become swollen and sore. As age advances the chances of getting piles also increase. Aging leads to slowing down of mobility, a sedentary life which leads to slowing down of the blood flow to the anus and rectum. The blood coagulates in veins and leads to hemorrhoids.

Reasons for constipation and piles in old age:

1. Lack of fibers and fluids in diet:

Many elderly people have trouble chewing food. They, therefore, opt for processed and soft food containing very little fiber. Irregular meals lead to low water intake.

2. Defecating delay:

Many times senior citizen above 65 years of age, rely on someone else to help them use the toilet, which is why they ignore or delay the urge. Reduced privacy in hospitals and nursing home is another reason.

3. Sedentary life:

Decreased physical activity or being more confined to bed or chair for long hours can lead to constipation in the elderly.

4. Medications:

People over 60 years of age take medications such as painkillers, NSAIDs (non steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs), calcium or iron supplements, which can cause constipation.

How to avoid it:

There are a various lifestyle and diet changes which if followed can be of great help to get eased from or rid of piles.

• Eating fiber-rich diet comprising of whole grains, fruits, vegetables very necessary. Fiber softens the stool and adds bulk to it, thus help it push through the intestine.

• Hydration is another factor which is required to be taken care of during old age. 8- 10 glasses of water daily helps in keeping the bowel moving and clear. It also helps in removing the toxins from our body.

• Moderate exercise, such as yoga asanas, or a short morning walk can be helpful in improving bowel health and preventing hemorrhoids and constipation.

• Sitz and a warm bath can soothe the soreness in the anal area thus giving relief from the pain and discomfort.

• Ayurvedic treatment is also very beneficial for the elderly. There are various ointments which relieve the soreness and pain and itching of hemorrhoids. Kanchnar Guggul, Sanjivani Vati, Varna Churna are some of the very effective remedies in Ayurveda for the treatment of constipation and pile.

• You can also consult a doctor to get the best medicine for digestion problem  which will help to get rid of most digestive problems with long term relief