Hemorrhoids are fairly common to adults. And although they are extremely rare, hemorrhoids can happen to children, too, and should be attended to immediately.
Hemorrhoids manifest in children through blood in stools, anal pain, difficulty in producing bowel movement, and a feeling of fullness even after pooping. This condition will cause plenty of stress not only to the child, but also to the parents.
Why Hemorrhoids Happen to Children
More often than not, a diet lacking in fiber is the culprit. If your child is eating a lot of junk or processed food, this turns into a problem when your kid’s body is unable to break it down properly. And if the child is obese, this increases the hemorrhoid risk due to the pressure that comes from the excessive weight.
When the urge to defecate comes, your child will have to use a lot of force to make the hard stool come out, causing the blood vessel in the anal walls to bulge and become inflamed.
Treating a Child’s Hemorrhoids
Just like adults, children with hemorrhoids should undergo a fiber-rich diet. Introduce lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your child’s diet, and make sure that he or she drinks plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Give your kid warm baths and cool compress to provide relief, and instruct the child to observe proper hygiene in the inflamed area after every bowel movement. Exercise also helps, so encourage playtime. Lastly, shower your kid with hugs and affection to show that you will be there for him or her during this difficult time.
If the hemorrhoids in your child is severe, it may require urgent medical attention by a Los Angeles proctologist. Please visit us at the Proctology Institute to ensure that your child’s hemorrhoids is taken care of properly.
