|
Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the lower rectum that can cause severe discomfort. You can have either internal or external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids cause bleeding and blood-streaked stool, itching and pain with bowl movements. An external hemorrhoid is when a swollen, inflamed vein pops out of the rectum. Hemorrhoids are caused by constipation and diarrhea. There are several treatments for hemorrhoids:
Home Treatments for Hemorrhoids
Changes in diet. Increased fiber and fluid intake help to treat hemorrhoids at home. Fluids and fiber soften stool, which reduces the amount of straining required to pass a bowel movement, which otherwise would cause hemorrhoids.
Blot. After using the toilet, blot with toilet paper or wipes rather than rub or wipe. Rubbing and wiping a hemorrhoid irritates it more and can be painful.
Rinse. You can also wash and rinse in the shower, but again never rub or scrub the surrounding area of a hemorrhoid. Make sure not to use soap with fragrances or dyes, as this can irritate a hemorrhoid further.
Ice and heat. Apply ice to the hemorrhoid for 10 minutes, and then apply a warm compress on the area for 10-20 minutes. This will help to reduce the swelling and ease the pain.
Dress appropriately. Wear loose, cotton underwear to prevent moisture from developing around the hemorrhoid.
Apply medications. There are many over-the-counter medications you can use for to treat hemorrhoids in the comfort of your own home.
- Ointments: Zinc oxide and petroleum jelly. Relieves itching and protects against irritation.
- Suppositories: Preparation H, Tucks. Relieves itching, burning and inflammation.
- Hydrocortisone: Hydrocortisone is a steroid that relieves the inflammation and itching of hemorrhoids. You will only find creams with 1% hydrocortisone over-the-counter. A doctor can prescribe 2% hydrocortisone containing creams.
- Acetaminophen: Drugs that contain acetaminophen (like Tylenol) help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
- Do not use: Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. These increase bleeding.
Medical Treatments for Hemorrhoids
Fixative Procedures. Designed for external hemorrhoids, fixative procedures ultimately reduce the supply of blood to hemorrhoids, shrinking them and preventing recurrence by causing scar tissue to form. The most common is rubber band ligation, tying a rubber band around the hemorrhoid. Options that don't include rubber bands include heat coagulation, laser coagulation or electrical current coagulation. Your doctor can give you more information.
Surgical Removal. Also known as a hemorrhoidectorry, surgical removal is for large or several internal hemorrhoids. While very effective in eliminating internal hemorrhoids, surgical removal is a last option because recovery time is long and painful.
|
