"Care for the buttocks and anal wounds is significantly eased by a bidet shower, as it makes it much easier to clean inflamed skin conditions."

- Dr. Daniel Sterzing, Proctological Center Berlin

Everyone naturally has hemorrhoids. Together with the internal and external sphincters of the anus, they seal off the intestines. They are a sponge-like, blood-filled vascular cushion. It helps keep the rectum closed under pressure, such as when sneezing or laughing.

What we colloquially refer to as having hemorrhoids is medically known as hemorrhoidal disease. This involves the enlargement of the vascular cushion, which causes uncomfortable symptoms such as pain, itching, and burning around the anus.

The causes of hemorrhoidal disease in humans are not yet fully understood but can be triggered or worsened by various factors:

• Repeated straining during bowel movements and chronic constipation
• Congenital weakness of the connective tissue, leading to a relaxation of the supporting muscles
• Lack of exercise and predominantly sedentary activities
• Low fluid intake
• Frequent diarrhea, which can result in the sensitive anal sphincter not being adequately trained
• Lifting heavy loads, which increases intra-abdominal pressure
• Overweight
• Pregnancy

For long-lasting or severe discomfort from hemorrhoids, it’s advisable to seek medical treatment by visiting your family doctor, who may refer you to specialized professionals such as proctologists, surgeons, or gastroenterologists to restore intestinal health.

In mild cases, however, individuals can initially help alleviate symptoms on their own:

These can be done with plain water or additives such as chamomile, witch hazel, oak bark, and arnica. They have an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect, which can help improve well-being.

Hard, dry toilet paper can irritate the sensitive skin around the anus, like sandpaper. Therefore, it’s best to gently dab the area instead of rubbing. Wet wipes often contain fragrances and preservatives, which can additionally irritate the skin and, in the worst-case scenario, trigger allergies. Doctors often recommend using a bidet shower and clear water. The bidet shower helps with symptoms and can relieve pain from hemorrhoids (see also Hygiene - Water instead of Paper).

Hemorrhoids can cause issues like itching. Ointments and creams can help alleviate these symptoms, making them another tip for promoting intestinal health. Ingredients like panthenol, zinc, witch hazel, or aloe vera can be effective. They reduce inflammation and support skin regeneration.

To avoid hemorrhoidal disease, which can be very uncomfortable and painful for those affected, here are some measures to promote bowel health:

• Clean the buttocks gently and hygienically with BIDETLITY. The sensitive skin around the rectum cannot tolerate aggressive shower gels or excessive friction. It’s best to avoid these altogether. Clear water is the best option and supports bowel health.
• Eat foods rich in fiber regularly to prevent constipation. Fiber-rich foods include whole grain bread, muesli, psyllium husks, sesame, oats, legumes, vegetables, and fresh fruits. These support overall health and a healthy lifestyle.
• In addition to fiber-rich foods, drink at least one and a half liters of liquid daily to ensure the fiber swells properly in the intestines.
• Regular exercise promotes intestinal health.
• Take enough time during bowel movements and avoid straining.
• Listen to your body – only go to the toilet when you truly need to, thus preventing bowel issues.