Hemorrhoid Medication: When Why And Which Ones To Use
A number of OTC creams, ointments, and pads that contain hydrocortisone or witch hazel are available to help relieve pain, swelling, and itching caused by hemorrhoids. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, doctors recommend using over-the-counter products for a week. If symptoms persist beyond a week, follow up with your doctor.
Creams and suppositories containing hydrocortisone can cause the skin to weaken and thin, so they should not be used for more than a week. If any of these creams cause a rash or dry skin around the area, contact your healthcare provider.
A fiber supplement, such as Metamucil , or a stool softener, such as Citrucel , can help prevent constipation.
Avoid laxatives, which can lead to diarrhea and worsen hemorrhoid symptoms.
How Do Healthcare Providers Treat Hemorrhoids
You should see your healthcare provider if symptoms get worse or interfere with your daily life or sleep. Also seek help if signs dont improve after a week of at-home treatments. Your provider may treat hemorrhoids with:
- Rubber band ligation: A small rubber band placed around the base of a hemorrhoid cuts off blood supply to the vein.
- Electrocoagulation: An electric current stops blood flow to a hemorrhoid.
- Infrared coagulation: A small probe inserted into the rectum transmits heat to get rid of the hemorrhoid.
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical injected into the swollen vein destroys hemorrhoid tissue.
Surgical treatments include:
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgery removes large external hemorrhoids or prolapsed internal ones.
- Hemorrhoid stapling: A stapling instrument removes an internal hemorrhoid. Or it pulls a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid back inside the anus and holds it there.
What Should I Do If My Hemorrhoid Burst And I’m In Pain
We suggest you take a multi-modal approach and get a hemorrhoid wipe, hemorrhoid cream and hemorrhoid supplement for maximum relief.
Proven hemorrhoid supplements, like HemRid, when used with a renowned cream and wipe, like Preparation H cream and Tucks pads can really make a difference for hemorrhoids.
Here’s a little secret,…those three products combined work amazing for hemorrhoids.
Also Check: How To Heal Bleeding Hemorrhoids Fast
Who Is At Risk For External Hemorrhoids
If your parents have had hemorrhoids, you may be more likely to have them as well. Hemorrhoids may also be caused by pregnancy.
As we age, hemorrhoids can occur due to increased pressure caused by sitting a lot. And anything that causes you to strain during bowel movements can lead to external hemorrhoids.
If youre not sure what the cause of your hemorrhoids may be, your doctor might be able to determine why.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Take To Heal
For many people, hemorrhoids last and last. Ongoing pain is especially common for people over age 50. For many people, hemorrhoidal pain returns years after treatment, and for many others the condition comes and goes, becoming more common over time.
Do Hemorrhoids Ever Go Away on Their Own?
Sometimes they do. Smaller hemorrhoids are apt to go away in just a few days. It’s a good idea during this time to avoid further irritating your rectal area by keeping the area as clean as you can.
How Can You Make Hemorrhoids Go Away?
Tougher cases of hemorrhoids may not go away on their own. After trying home remedies and over-the-counter options without success, you will need to talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
Also Check: How To Treat External Hemorrhoids
Symptoms Of Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids can be felt as bulges at the anus, but they usually cause few of the symptoms that are typical of internal hemorrhoids.
External hemorrhoids can cause problems, however, when blood clots inside them. This is referred to as thrombosis. Thrombosis of such a hemorrhoid causes an anal lump that is
- very painful,
- tender, and
- often requires medical attention.
The thrombosed hemorrhoid may heal with scarring, and leave a tag of skin protruding in the anus. Occasionally, the tag is large, which can make anal hygiene difficult or irritate the anus. Even after such a hemorrhoid goes away, a residual skin tag may remain, and this may need to be surgically removed.
How To Relieve The Pain After Pooping With A Hemorrhoid
After going to the bathroom it can be really sore down there, and you may also feel some big lumps coming out from the anus. It is very important to clean well so not any poop leaves around the hemorrhoids. This can cause them to get worse. Instead of using toilet paper try using moist wipes which are softer on your skin.
Take a sitz bath, this method is where you soak your rear end and anal area in a few inches of warm water, this also will help you clean after going to the bathroom. This can also be done in a bathtub. For extra relief, you can try to add some Epsom salt to the bath.
Over-the-counter products can be used to relieve the pain after pooping, topical cream can be applied to external hemorrhoids and suppository for internal hemorrhoids. This can calm the hemorrhoids down after going to the bathroom.
You May Like: How Much Does It Cost To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids
Try Addressing The Underlying Cause Of Your Hemorrhoid Burst
Try and address the causes of your hemorrhoids bursts and you will better luck with preventing them in the future.
Hemorrhoids are the absolute worst and you do not want to suffer from them for the rest of your life.
If you are pregnant with hemorrhoids, you will want to do things that your doctor recommends to combat your hemorrhoids and prevent further bursting.
The third trimester is the most common for the development of hemorrhoids.
Kegel exercises, avoiding constipation, and even lying down on your left side can minimize the severity of bleeding and prolapse of your pregnancy hemorrhoids.
You may use witch hazel hemorrhoid wipes, and also see what your doctor recommends to relieve the pressure and constipation or diarrhea if you have them.
In order to shrink and negate the burning, itching and swelling of hemorrhoids you will want to attack the hemorrhoids from a multi-pronged approach.
A good regimen can help prevent future hemorrhoids bursts too.
Less Strain More Gain
Prolonged sitting or straining, often associated with constipation or diarrhea, may lead to hemorrhoids. “By straining you are causing more hemorrhoids and creating more symptoms,” Dr. Wolf says.
Don’t delay bowel movements during hemorrhoid flare-ups. Go when you need to go, because putting off bowel movements can worsen constipation, which then aggravates the hemorrhoids.
Also, elevating your feet a bit with a step stool as you sit on the toilet changes the position of the rectum in a way that could allow for easier passage of stools.
Don’t Miss: Can You Live With Hemorrhoids
There Are A Few Things You Can Do So It Isnt So Painful To Go To The Bathroom
-When passing stool, try to use the squatting method, this means you raise your knees up against your abdomen. This will help the stool to pass more easily.
-When you are sitting on the toilet and waiting for it to come, try to raise your rear end by lifting yourself up from the toilet an inch or two.
-Try not to push or strain too much as this will lead to more swollen hemorrhoids, ideally, you should just sit down and pass the stool and then get back up.
When Is It Time To See Your Doctor
While most people think of hemorrhoids as a minor problem, they can be very painful, explains Dr. Buzas. Knowing when to treat conditions such as hemorrhoids on your own and when its better to seek help can help you avoid unnecessary complications.If youre experiencing any of the following situations related to your hemorrhoids, make an appointment to see your doctor:
- You experience rectal bleeding or see bright red blood on your toilet paper.
- You have pain and discomfort in your rectum or anus.
- Youve tried over-the-counter remedies for more than one week without relieving your symptoms.
- You have bowel movements that are maroon or dark like tar in color, which can be a sign of bleeding.
If your rectal bleeding wont stop and you feel dizzy or faint, you should consider it a medical emergency that warrants a trip to the emergency room.When you see your doctor for hemorrhoids, youll first discuss your symptoms. Be sure to answer any questions directly and honestly, to get the best diagnosis. Your doctor will then examine you for external hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids and other potential issues.
Getting your hemorrhoids checked out is no different than and as important as getting a routine colonoscopy, Pap test, mammogram or prostate exam, Dr. Buzas notes. Theres no reason to be reluctant or delay your care.
Read Also: What Is The Best Medication For Hemorrhoids
Getting Restful Sleep Without Triggering Hemorrhoid Pain
Depending on your preferred sleeping position, your hemorrhoid pain can make it difficult for you to get a good nights rest. In addition to clean cotton underwear and loose-fitting pajamas, we recommend you sleep on your stomach to reduce anal pain and place a pillow under your hips to prevent yourself from rolling over onto your back.
A full-body sitz bath right before bed may also ease discomfort, help you feel more relaxed, and make it easier for you to fall asleep. In addition, reading or listening to soothing music may take your mind off your hemorrhoids and your discomfort, which may help you get to sleep faster.
Avoid Rubber Ring Cushions
Sitting on a rubber ring doesnt alleviate painful hemorrhoids in fact it makes swelling and discomfort worse! Sitting on a rubber ring increases pressure within the anus trapping blood flow within the pelvic floor.
A doughnut shaped cushion is a preferable option for elevating the buttocks when sitting.
A towel roll or foam wedge strip placed length ways under each buttock/upper thigh will elevate the buttocks and avoid loading the pelvic floor. Foam wedges can be readily made from foam cut offs.
Also Check: What Kind Of Food Is Good For Hemorrhoids
What Are The Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids Are They Painful
It depends on the type of hemorrhoids you have, Dr. Nelson says. If you have external hemorrhoids, youll probably have the following symptoms:
- anal itching
- one or more hard, tender lumps near your anus
- an anal ache or pain that you feel or gets worse when you sit
If you have internal hemorrhoids, youll likely have these symptoms:
- bleeding from your rectum
- a hemorrhoid that has fallen through your anus, which is called prolapse
Hemorrhoids, for the most part, do not cause pain when you have a bowel movement, says Rudolph Bedford, M.D., a gastroenterologist at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. However, if you have a prolapsed hemorrhoid, you can also experience swelling and pain if it doesnt go back inside your body, Dr. Nelson says.
Ideas To Make Bowel Movements Easier
Add a tablespoon of mineral oil to your food. Mineral oil helps to ease constipation.
Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water and other hydrating fluids throughout the day. It helps to prevent worsening constipation.
Change your toilet habits. Dont delay going to the bathroom. Putting off a bowel movement can make you more constipated and worsen symptoms. Use a small stepping stool to prop your feet up when you sit on the toilet. This angles your body into a squatting position, making it easier to have a bowel movement.
If you have hemorrhoid symptoms, several options can help soothe flare-ups:
- avoid dry toilet paper, use a damp wipe or water to wash
- avoid perfumed or alcohol wipes
- avoid sprays, deodorants, or douches in the groin area
- avoid strenuous exercise and other activities that cause friction
- avoid tight clothing and rough fabrics
- keep the area clean
- take pain medication as needed, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- sit on a reclining or rocking chair rather than sitting upright
- sit on a soft pillow or donut cushion
- soak in a warm water bath
- try topical treatments, such as creams, ointments, sprays and suppositories with hydrocortisone
- use ice packs or cold compresses
- Apply witch hazel with a cotton pad
Don’t Miss: Why Am I Getting Hemorrhoids
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last
Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins around the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids normally aid in the process of bowel movement. In fact everyone has hemorrhoids but many do not have symptoms or signs from them. They are cushion-like bundle of tissues composed of vasculature and smooth muscle .
According to anatomy, the rectum normally extends from the terminal sigmoid colon and to the anus. This epithelia is normally lined by columnar epithelial mucosa. This is innervated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic system and is relatively insensate. The hypogastric system is responsible for the vascular and lymphatic systems.
The anal canal, which is approximately 4 cm in length, extends from the anal verge to its junction with the rectum close to the proximal aspect of the levator-sphincteric complex.
Unlike the rectum, the anus is lined by anoderm, which is a modified and sensitive squamous epithelium richly innervated with somatic sensory nerves, and supplied by the inferior hemorrhoidal system. The manor anatomic reference point when considering management of hemorrhoids is the dentate line.
There are a number of causes of this condition especially those that increase pressure within the hemorrhoidal veins. These include:
- Straining during defecation
One of the most frequently asked questions regarding this condition is if they go away on their own. Unfortunately, they dont.
Taking A Sitz Bath In The Bathtub
If youre taking a sitz bath in the bathtub, the first step is to clean the tub.
A plastic sitz bath kit fits over the toilet. Rinse the bath kit with clean water before using it. Then, add very warm but not hot water along with any medications or solutions recommended by your doctor.
Also Check: Do Sitz Baths Help Hemorrhoids
Consider Having A Clot Removed
External hemorrhoids can result in extremely painful blood clots, and while theyre not dangerous, they can take a couple of weeks to resolve on their own. If yours scores high on your personal pain scale, a doctor can remove a thrombosed hemorrhoid with a relatively simple in-office procedure under local anesthetic in about 10 minutes. Keep in mind: The first 24 to 48 hours are typically the most painfuland the best time to have a clot removed, says Dr. Ky.
Hemorrhoid Remedies You Can Try On Your Own At Home
There are several steps you can take at home to ease the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids:
- Take a sitz bath two to three times daily for 15 to 20 minutes. Sit in warm water, covering just your hips and buttocks. This can help reduce itching and irritation. You can take a sitz bath in a few inches of water in a regular tub, but small tubs that fit over toilet seats are also available for this purpose at pharmacies. Following a sitz bath, gently pat the area dry to avoid further irritation.
- Use ice packs on the area to relieve swelling and pain.
- Don’t push too hard or strain while passing a bowel movement.
- Clean your anus after each bowel movement by gently patting with moistened pads, such as baby wipes. Using hard, dry toilet paper, which may contain fragrance, can cause further irritation.
- Keep the area clean by bathing or showering daily with warm water. After bathing, gently pat the area dry. You can even use a hair dryer to dry the area.
- Sit on cushions rather than hard surfaces to help lessen the swelling of hemorrhoids and keep new ones from forming.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin as needed.
RELATED: 6 Easy Ways to Prevent Hemorrhoids
Read Also: How Painful Can Hemorrhoids Be
Keeping Yourself Comfortable During The Day
Though hemorrhoid symptoms vary depending on the location and type, if you have external hemorrhoids, a thrombosed hemorrhoid , or a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid , simple things like sitting at your desk at work can cause extreme discomfort. For immediate pain relief, we recommend oral pain relievers or topical treatments such as an over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream or witch hazel. We may also prescribe a numbing cream to ease your pain.
To reduce irritation, you should wear clean, cotton underwear and loose-fitted clothing to help keep the area dry. Moisture may lead to itching and irritation. If you find it too difficult to sit in your office chair, you may want to invest in a donut cushion to ease the pressure on your backside.
At home, soak in a warm sitz bath for 1015 minutes a few times a day to relieve itching, muscle spasms, and pain. You can find a sitz bath tub at your local pharmacy that fits over your toilet to make the process easier.