How to Care for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, or piles, develop when anal and rectal veins become swollen because of straining or prolonged sitting. They may cause inflammation, pain or rectal bleeding. Hemorrhoids can be internal, external or both. Asymptomatic hemorrhoids are considered normal in adults and children.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cold Compresses
• Hemorrhoid Treatments
• Shower Massager

1. Apply a cold compress directly onto the hemorrhoid area to help ease pain. The easiest way to do this is to ask a family member to apply your compress as you lie facedown.
2. Moisten toilet paper or use a baby wipe after a bowel movement.
3. Clean the area well with warm water several times a day. A handheld showerhead also works well.
4. Avoid sitting or standing for lengthy periods of time.
5. Soak in a hot bath every day. Avoid bath salts, which may be irritating.
6. Increase your fiber intake. Eat fresh vegetables, whole grains and beans. Fiber helps your regularity, and forms stools that are large and soft, which makes them easier to pass.
7. Drink eight glasses of water a day. This will keep stool loose and easier to pass.
8. Get regular exercise. Walking three times a week, for 30 minutes each time, will aid your digestion and make moving your bowels less difficult.
9. Avoid straining when you have a bowel movement.
10. Lift heavy objects using proper body mechanics to avoid putting excessive strain on the lower body.
11. Use over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications as directed on a short-term basis. Those containing corticosteroids are especially helpful in reducing anal pain. Check with a pharmacist to make sure the medication does not cause problems with other medications you are taking.

Tips & Warnings

• In very rare cases, hemorrhoids may need to be treated surgically, either through injection sclerotherapy (which causes the vein to shrink), rubber-band ligation or hemorrhoidectomy. Consult your doctor to find out more about these treatments.
• Never assume that rectal bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids. It could be caused by colon cancer.
• Prolonged use of over-the-counter hemorrhoid medication can lead to inflammation and scarring of the rectal tissue.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.