Here are recommended steps and treatments for hemorrhoids:
- Lifestyle and Home Care:
- Eat a high-fiber diet (25-35 grams daily) with fruits, vegetables, whole grains to soften stool and reduce straining.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help bowel movements.
- Avoid straining and sitting on the toilet for long periods.
- Exercise regularly to stimulate bowel function.
- Take warm sitz baths (soaking the anal area in warm water) for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day to relieve pain.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed.
- Topical and Over-the-Counter Treatments:
- Apply hemorrhoid creams or ointments containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or numbing agents for temporary pain, itching, and swelling relief.
- Use suppositories or pads if recommended.
- Avoid using corticosteroid creams for more than a week without medical advice as they may thin the skin.
- Medical Procedures (if symptoms persist or are severe):
- Rubber Band Ligation: A small rubber band is placed around the base of internal hemorrhoids to cut off blood supply, causing them to shrink and fall off.
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a chemical to shrink hemorrhoids.
- Hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal) may be needed for large, persistent, or prolapsed hemorrhoids.
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy repositions hemorrhoids and cuts off blood supply with less pain and quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.
- Newer procedures like Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HAL-RAR) use Doppler to tie off arteries supplying hemorrhoids.
- When to See a Doctor:
- If symptoms persist beyond a week of home treatment.
- Severe pain, bleeding, or prolapsed hemorrhoids.
- Any unusual or worsening symptoms.
These recommendations provide a comprehensive approach from home care to minimally invasive treatments and surgery if necessary. Most hemorrhoids improve with fiber, hydration, and proper bowel habits combined with topical care.
