Battling Haemorrhoids: Eat healthy, drink water and exercise

Haemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the anus or rectum. They may be caused by factors including straining during bowel movements, pregnancy and constipation. The pain of haemorrhoids can be treated with haemorrhoidal creams, ointments or suppositories, says the US National Digestive Diseases Informational Clearinghouse.

Warm water baths also can help ease symptoms. Constipation, the root cause of many cases of haemorrhoids, can be prevented with a diet rich in fibre from fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Drinking plenty of water and regular exercise also can help.

Active cases of constipation may be treated with stool softeners or fibre supplements, the agency says.