Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Treatments
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that develop around your anus and lower rectum. Approximately half of Americans have experienced at least one case of hemorrhoids by the age of 50, according to the National Digestives Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
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Significance
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When hemorrhoids are on the outside of your body or are very small, invasive treatment may not be needed to treat the condition, the clearinghouse explains.
Function
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The aim of non-invasive hemorrhoid treatment is to relieve discomfort, as well as reduce the inflammation of the blood vessels that is causing the disease. It is also important to reduce straining during defecation as this can exacerbate the condition, the Clearinghouse reports.
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Types of Medications
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Over-the-counter medications to relieve the itching and burning of hemorrhoids is usually adequate for non-invasive treatment and can include the use of hydrocortisone or witch hazel creams or suppositories. Doctors may recommend a stool-softening medication like polyethylene glycol or increasing your intake of fiber and fluids to make it easier for you to pass stool.
Time Frame
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Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams and suppositories should not be used for longer than a week as these medications have the potential to cause skin irritations, the Mayo Clinic warns.
Self-Care
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Taking warm 10-minute baths helps alleviate the discomforted associated with hemorrhoids, the clearinghouse suggests. It also important that you keep your anal area clean and avoid using dry toilet paper while you have an outbreak of hemorrhoids to speed the healing process, the Mayo Clinic reports.
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