If you have or have had hemorrhoids, I don’t have to tell you how frustrating and distracting the itching and burning can make you feel. Here are some of our favorite tips to help you take better care of your hemorrhoids.
Be gentle – When wiping the area after a bowel movement or after a bath or shower, pat the area dry. Try not to use force when cleaning or drying the area. I know you may feel like using steel wool on the area but try to resist this as much as possible.
Stool Softener – one thing that can make a difference is to soften the stool. What I have found to be successful in accomplishing this is a minimum of 2 liters of water a day and Docusate 100 mg softgel. Take one to three capsules by mouth once at bedtime. These can be used indefinitely and are not like stimulant laxatives that can cause your body to rely on them to have a bowel movement. Softening of the stool with docusate may take 12 hours up to 3 days.
Increase dietary fiber – Foods rich in fiber are the best source. I always think of fruit such as apples and pears. There are many food sources for fiber so find one that you like and keep a good supply around. Additional fiber can be supplemented. We recommend Regel Pharmalab’s Fiber Blend.
Exercise – 20-30 minutes of a brisk walk can help stimulate normal bowel function and make you regular.
Take a bath – After a bowel movement sit in a tub of warm water for 20 minutes. You can do this several times a day to relive the symptoms of itching, burning and spasms of the anal sphincter. This is also accomplished with a “Sitz” bath.
Topical ointments – I recommend topical non-prescription hydrocortisone ointment to treat the inflammation, burning and itching. This should be applied 3 times a day. The ointment is the best choice because it stays in place for a longer period of time.
Now what?
For those of you that have tried these steps and are still struggling with this nuisance contact me. I have found a treatment that can provide significant relief within 3 days. This medication does require a prescription so I will have to discuss this with your physician. I look forward to helping you get relief.
What hemorrhoid treatment works for you? (please comment below)
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