People with hemorrhoids may experience quick relief of itching and pain without seeing a doctor, and they may not need ongoing treatment to keep the discomfort from getting worse. The best treatment for hemorrhoids can usually be done at home.
Many of the suggestions in this article can help avoid constipation, make bowel movements easier, and prevent hemorrhoids from forming.
One, relieve pain and itching
A warm sitz bath. Take a sitz bath in a bathtub filled with warm water a few centimeters deep for about 15 minutes each time, 2 to 3 times a day, and soak once after defecation. If the patient also wants to clean the hemorrhoid area, use an unscented soap without rubbing.
Then, pat the washed area dry. The patient can even dry it with the cool air of a hair dryer (if it feels better to do so).
There are also special “bidets” that patients can place directly on the toilet seat, making it easier to take a sitz bath.
Massage for relief. Over-the-counter wipes or creams containing witch hazel can relieve pain and itching with no side effects. Hydrocortisone should not be used for more than a week unless your doctor agrees.
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Ice. Place a small ice pack on the hemorrhoid area several times a day to temporarily relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Pain relievers. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen can help relieve pain.
Do not scratch. Scratching can damage the skin, making itching and irritation worse.
Choose cotton underwear. Choose loose and soft underwear that will help the hemorrhoid area breathe and prevent moisture build-up that can affect hemorrhoids.
Second, cultivate good toilet habits
Limit toilet time. If you don’t have a bowel movement for a few minutes, there is no need to continue or force a bowel movement. Try to have a bowel movement at the same time each day to form a habit.
Wipe lightly. If the toilet paper is irritating, try moistening the toilet paper, or use wipes, cotton balls, or alcohol-free baby wipes.
Don’t hold a bowel movement. When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, you should defecate immediately, and do not wait for a more suitable time or place.
If not passed in time, the constipation will disappear, resulting in excessive strain and more pressure during bowel movements. Remember: have a bowel movement when you feel the urge.
Try a squat position. When you go to the toilet, put a low stool or a stack of phone books under your feet. Elevating your knees while sitting on the toilet changes the position of the organs in your abdomen, making bowel movements easier.
Image source: Zhanku Hailuo
Third, avoid aggravation of symptoms
Eat more fiber. Fiber softens stool, making it easier to pass out of the bowel. Fiber is found in beans, whole-grain breads and grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
If the patient is not getting enough fiber from food, supplements can also be tried. Gradually add fiber to prevent gas and bloating.
Consume plenty of fluids. Being well hydrated keeps your stools soft and makes it easier for them to pass through your bowels. Water is the best choice, drink plenty of water every day.
Prune juice is a natural laxative that helps with bowel movements.
Exercise regularly. Even brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes a day can help patients avoid having a bowel movement.
Image source: Zhanku Hailuo
Breathe! Keep breathing normally when your body is straining. When pushing, pulling, or exerting force, it is easy to hold your breath (the patient may not realize they are holding it), which can lead to painful and bleeding hemorrhoids.
Use a pillow. Sitting on a soft cushion rather than a hard surface can reduce swelling and help prevent new hemorrhoids from forming.
Have a break. If you must sit for a long time, stand up and walk around for at least 5 minutes every 1 hour.
*The content of this article is for the popularization of health knowledge and cannot be used as a specific diagnosis and treatment suggestion, nor can it replace the face-to-face consultation of a licensed physician, and is for reference only.
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