Hemorrhoids and anal fissures affect millions of people, but few talk about them openly. Though they’re common, they can be painful, persistent, and embarrassing. The good news is that they’re often preventable and treatable.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. Think of trying to blow up a balloon—it takes pressure for it to stretch. One weakened area finally “gives” and it blows up. Similarly, straining during bowel movements, especially with constipation, puts pressure on weak areas in the veins, causing them to swell. They can be internal or external and may itch, hurt, or bleed.
Anal fissures are small tears in the thin tissue lining the anus. They often result from forcing out hard stools or having frequent bouts of diarrhea. These can cause intense pain during or after bowel movements and sometimes visible bleeding.
Both conditions share similar root causes: constipation, straining, poor diet, lack of digestive enzymes, insufficient nutrients in the diet, inadequate bile flow, and weakened tissue integrity. Pregnancy, aging, prolonged sitting, inflammatory bowel conditions, and trauma can also contribute.
The good news? These conditions can often be resolved naturally by addressing their root causes.
Start by addressing constipation. Increase fiber-rich fresh and raw foods while eliminating processed ones. Processed foods lack enzymes your digestive system depends on for smooth function. In contrast, live foods supply natural enzymes needed for proper digestion. Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and relax to stimulate digestive enzyme release.
If fresh and raw foods alone don’t help, supplemental digestive enzymes may be needed. Healthy bile flow is also essential. Bile softens, colors, and helps move the stool. Many people lack enough bile due to low-fat diets or gallbladder removal. The liver and gallbladder play key roles in fat metabolism and elimination, so supporting bile with healthy fats—or bile salts if needed—can make a big difference.
Support tissue healing with high-quality collagen and real vitamin C (not just ascorbic acid). These nutrients help strengthen blood vessels and delicate anal tissue.
“Potty training” is essential, too. That means going to the bathroom at consistent times every day, and when your body signals—not holding it in or straining when it’s not ready.
For relief, sitz baths with herbs like chamomile, yarrow, turmeric, and butcher’s broom can ease pain and inflammation. Ointments, Epsom salts, and soothing herbs help topically.
Acupuncture is especially a powerful ally. It reduces pain and inflammation, stimulates bile flow, improves circulation for healing, relieves anal muscle spasms, and supports healthy digestion and bowel regulation.
You don’t have to suffer. These approaches address the root cause—not just symptoms—and can help you feel better and restore healthy bowels.
Want to hear more from Dr. Carling? Check out our podcast. Search for VitalHealth4You on your favorite podcast listening app or go to vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/
©2025 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L.Ac., Ph.D.
