7 Tips to Prevent Another Hemorrhoid Flare-Up

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort, irritation, itching, and rectal bleeding. While symptoms may improve with treatment, many people experience recurring flare-ups that can interfere with daily life. Understanding what causes hemorrhoids to return is an important step toward preventing future irritation and managing symptoms long-term.

Why Hemorrhoids Keep Coming Back

Recurring hemorrhoids are often linked to increased pressure in the rectal area caused by constipation, extreme diarrhea, straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting on the toilet, pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting, or low-fiber diets. When these contributing factors are not addressed, flare-ups are more likely to continue over time.

Fortunately, healthy daily habits can help reduce irritation, support digestive and rectal health, and lower the risk of future flare-ups. These seven tips can help get you started.

7 Tips to Help Prevent Your Next Hemorrhoid Flareup

1. Load up on fiber at every meal

Increasing fiber intake is one of the most effective ways to prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups. Fiber softens stool, making bowel movements easier and reducing pressure on rectal veins.

Aim for 25–30 grams of fiber per day from food, supplements, or both. Some high-fiber foods include:

• Broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens
• Beans, lentils, and chickpeas
• Oats, bran, and whole grains
• Apples, pears, berries, and bananas

If needed, fiber supplements like psyllium (Metamucil), methylcellulose (Citrucel), or wheat dextrin can help increase daily fiber intake. Increase fiber gradually to reduce gas and bloating. At NYGA, our nutrition services can also help you build a high-fiber diet plan tailored to your needs, supporting more regular bowel movements and reducing strain that can contribute to hemorrhoid flare-ups.

2. Drink more water

Hydration helps prevent hard stools and supports normal bowel movements. Without enough fluid, fiber is less effective. 

Most adults should aim for 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day, although individual needs may vary. 

3. Change how you use the bathroom

Bathroom habits can directly affect hemorrhoid symptoms and recurrence. It is recommended to:

• Go to the bathroom when you feel the urge 
• Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Do not strain or force stool to pass
• Speak with your gastroenterologist if you feel you are having inadequate pushing, as this could be a sign of outlet dysfunction constipation or dyssynergic defecation.

4. Try a footstool

Using a small footstool while sitting on the toilet to raise your knees above your hip level, can help reposition the rectum, making stool passage easier and reducing straining.

5. Move your body every day

Regular physical activity supports digestion and helps prevent constipation. Sedentary behavior can slow bowel function and contribute to constipation.

Moderate aerobic exercise, such as 20–30 minutes of brisk walking daily, can improve bowel function and reduce pressure in the rectal veins.

Avoid heavy lifting or high-strain exercises (like heavy squats) during flare-ups or if you are prone to recurrence, as these activities can increase abdominal pressure.

6. Avoid the foods and habits that trigger flares

Low-fiber and highly processed foods may contribute to constipation and harder stools. 

Limit foods such as:

• Cheese
• Chips and fast food
• Ice cream
• Processed meats
• Frozen and packaged meals

7. Maintain a healthy weight

Excess body weight increases pressure on the pelvic and rectal veins, increasing the risk of hemorrhoid recurrence. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and reducing prolonged sitting can help lower your risk. 

When Home Strategies Are Not Enough

If hemorrhoids continue to recur despite lifestyle changes, or if symptoms include bleeding, worsening pain, or difficulty with bowel movements, you should consider seeing a specialist for a closer evaluation and targeted treatment.

NYGA offers highly effective, minimally invasive treatment options such as HemWell™ – an innovative, FDA-approved treatment for hemorrhoid removal. Infrared coagulation (IRC) is another nonsurgical, FDA-approved treatment for internal hemorrhoids performed at many of NYGA’s locations.

Schedule with NYGA

If you’ve been experiencing recurring hemorrhoids, chronic flare-ups, or ongoing blood in your stool, you should consider seeing a gastroenterologist. At NYGA, our physicians evaluate the underlying causes of hemorrhoids and provide individualized treatment options designed to relieve symptoms, treat active flare-ups, and help reduce recurrence.

 

Don’t wait—prioritize your health today.