THE UK heatwave has been predicted to continue over the next fortnight, according to the BBC’s weather team. Although sunshine and hot temperatures are at the top of many people’s agenda, a heatwave can trigger a host of health problems.
One of the main risks posed by a heatwave is dehydration, and a common problem which can occur from dehydration is piles.
Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are associated with increased pressure in the blood vessels in and around the anus.
Dehydration causes constipation, which is one of the leading causes of piles.
Constipation makes going to the toilet difficult and forces you to strain.
It is this straining which can lead to piles as a lot of pressure is placed on the blood vessels and can cause them to swell.
So what can you do to avoid piles during a heatwave?
To avoid pules, consume the daily recommended intake of eight glasses of water, says The Haemorrhoid Centre.
It adds: “Another way to avoid piles this some rid by being conscious of the foods you are consuming. Eating too much red meat, such as beef, can lead to constipation because our stomachs find it difficult to digest.
“Red meat contains a high amount of iron, making your stools hard and difficult to pass.
“If you have plenty of summer BBQ’s coming up, and often suffer from piles, opt for white meat, fish or vegetable skewers to help avoid piles.”
Piles can sometimes be painful or itchy, and can in some cases bleed during bowel movements.
But piles often clear up by themselves after a few days, and there are some simple lifestyle changes you can make to reduce itchiness and discomfort and help them clear up quickly.
There is cream and medication available, but making some simple dietary and lifestyle changes is the best form of treatment.
Boots Web MD recommends gradually increasing the fibre in your diet to prevent constipation, until you are getting about 40g fibre daily. Choose wholemeal or wholewheat breads, cereals and past and brown rice rather than their processed white alternatives, and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables – at least your five a day – along with beans and other pulses, nuts, seeds and oats.
Take fibre supplements, such as ispaghula, methylcellulose, bran or sterculia, can also help, and you should avoid sitting for long periods if you can (including on the toilet), and take breaks for at least five minutes once an hour.
Losing weight if you are overweight, exercising regularly, using the toilet as soon as you feel a need, avoiding straining at the end of a bowel movement, and avoiding holding your breath when exerting yourself can also help.
How do you know if you have piles, and when should you see a GP?
The NHS lists the signs of piles as bleeding after passing a stool – the blood is usually bright red, and an itchy bottom.
A lump hanging down outside of the anus, which may need to be pushed back in after passing a stool, a much discharge after passing a stool, and soreness, redness and swelling around your anus can also be indicators.
