Iron deficiency happens when there’s a low supply of iron in the body. Iron plays an important role in the production of red blood cells and when iron is low, so are your red blood cells. This is called iron deficiency. A study shows that approximately 10 million Americans are iron deficient and 5 million have iron deficiency anemia. So, how are hemorrhoids related to iron deficiency? What causes it and who’s at risk? Believe it or not, iron deficiency anemia is a pretty common condition. Let’s take a look at how these two relate to each other and what you can do for relief.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Common symptoms of iron deficiency anemia are fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, irritability, poor (blood) circulation, and more. Many underlying health conditions are attributed to this common ailment. If it’s not treated immediately, organ failure could follow. Perhaps you’re not obtaining enough iron-rich foods, which can also play a part in this deficiency. Slight adjustments can decrease your chances of iron deficiency by avoiding mistakes that can pose a risk.
Can My Hemorrhoids Cause Iron Deficiency?
In short, many health factors increase your chances of having iron deficiency anemia. Although it’s not as common to this extreme, hemorrhoids, polyps, and ulcers can increase your chances as well. It’s possible for large amounts of rectal blood to come from hemorrhoids that aren’t taken care of.
I have Iron Deficiency & Hemorrhoids. What’s next?
If you suspect you have iron deficiency related to hemorrhoids, consult your physician and proctologist right away. In the meantime, these simple steps may ease the pain and set you on the path to healing.
- Eating iron-enriched foods such as eggs, legumes, liver, brown rice, and raisins.
- Increase your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Sitz baths are an excellent way to relieve the pressure and pain of hemorrhoids. These baths allow the body (and tender area) to relax for an efficient bowel movement.
- Drink plenty of water and keep active. While the amount of water intake depends on the sex and weight or an individual, the CDC recommends keeping hydrated all day in average amounts. To stay active and keep fit, go for longer than usual walks or join your local gym that has a pool. These low-intensity activities speed your heart rate just enough to get the blood circulating in the body and improving your digestion.
- Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams and ointments may be helpful as long as you consult with your doctor first. This onset treatment may help soothe itching and alleviate the swelling to allow for easier bowel movements.
Are you experiencing rectal pain or discomfort? Perhaps you’ve been diagnosed with hemorrhoids and you’d like to avoid iron-related ailments. Let Dr. Butler offer his sound advice. Dr. Butler’s years of experience makes his patients feel at ease when they walking into the room. He only recommends and hand-picks products that he feels will benefit you. Contact the expert today for more information on how you can be pain free!