Ella Walter
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins that develop inside or outside the rectum, causing pain, itching, bleeding, and discomfort. They are usually caused by increased pressure due to pregnancy, being overweight, or
How to ease hemorrhoid pain
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, in-office procedures, self-care remedies, surgery |
| Self-care remedies | Sitz baths, warm baths, topical hemorrhoid creams, loose clothing, cold compress, ice pack, lubricated gloved finger, moist alcohol-free wipes, doughnut-shaped cushion, pillow under knees, physiotherapy |
| Diet | High-fibre foods, whole fruits and vegetables, whole grains, adequate fluid intake |
| Symptoms | Anal itching, pain, discomfort, bleeding, swelling, irritation, inflammation, sudden pain, lump around the anus, skin tag, skin erosion |
| Causes | Constipation, straining, pregnancy, being overweight |
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What You'll Learn
Soak in a warm sitz bath
A sitz bath is a great way to ease hemorrhoid pain and speed up healing. The word sitz comes from the German word "sitzen", which means "to sit". It is a warm-water bath that covers the hips and buttocks and can be taken in a bathtub or a sitz bath bowl.
To take a sitz bath, start by cleaning the bathtub or bowl. Fill it with 3 to 4 inches of warm water. You can add salt or medicine to the water if advised by your healthcare provider. Gently lower yourself into the bathtub and sit on the bottom of the tub, ensuring that the affected area is submerged. The water temperature should be comfortable, and you can add more warm water as needed to keep it warm.
You can sit in the bath for up to 20 minutes, and this can be repeated 2 to 3 times a day or as advised by your healthcare provider. After soaking, gently pat yourself dry with a soft towel and apply any prescribed ointment or cream.
Sitz baths are generally safe and can effectively reduce inflammation, boost blood flow, and soothe irritation. They are often recommended for hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and postpartum care.
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Use over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams
Over-the-counter (OTC) hemorrhoid creams are typically used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as itching, burning, and pain. They can also help with swelling and irritation. These creams are applied externally to the anal area, and some come with applicators for easier and more comfortable application. It is recommended to apply the cream after a bowel movement to ensure the medication stays in place. Before applying the cream, it is important to wash your hands and the affected area with gentle soap and warm water, then gently dry the area. A thin layer of cream can then be applied to the affected area, ensuring it is only used externally unless directed by a healthcare professional.
OTC hemorrhoid creams often contain a combination of active ingredients, such as hydrocortisone, pramoxine, phenylephrine, and zinc oxide. These ingredients work to reduce inflammation, numb the area, and relieve discomfort. Some creams may also contain a local anaesthetic, such as lidocaine, to reduce pain. It is important to note that hemorrhoid creams should not be used for more than one week without consulting a doctor, as they may contain steroid medications that can have adverse effects with prolonged use.
When choosing an OTC hemorrhoid cream, it is important to select one specifically designed for treating hemorrhoids, as generic creams may be less effective. Additionally, consider your individual needs and the specific symptoms you are experiencing. For example, if you are experiencing severe pain, a cream containing a local anaesthetic may be beneficial.
OTC hemorrhoid creams can provide temporary relief from mild to moderate symptoms. However, for more severe cases or if your symptoms do not improve within a week, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, who may advise a prescription-strength cream or alternative treatment option.
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Increase fibre intake
A high-fibre diet is commonly recommended to treat and prevent hemorrhoids. Fibre makes stools easier to pass, preventing constipation and straining, which can cause or aggravate hemorrhoids. Studies have shown that fibre supplementation can reduce the bleeding associated with hemorrhoids by 50%.
When increasing your fibre intake, it is best to do so gradually to help your body adjust. Consuming too much fibre too quickly can cause bloating and other digestive symptoms. It is recommended that women consume 25 grams of fibre per day, while men need around 38 grams per day.
Fibre is found primarily in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Some high-fibre foods include:
- Apples and pears (with the skin on)
- Bananas
- Berries
- Prunes
- Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas)
- Nuts and seeds
- Whole grains (oatmeal, barley, whole wheat bread and cereals)
- Root vegetables (squash, bell peppers, celery)
- Tubers (sweet potatoes, carrots, rutabaga)
- Broccoli
- Artichokes
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Wear loose clothing
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your anus and rectum that can cause pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. They can be either internal or external. While they often go away on their own within a few weeks, there are some steps you can take to ease the pain. One of the most important things is to wear loose clothing.
Loose-fitting clothing can help keep the area dry and reduce irritation. Moisture may lead to itching and irritation, so it's important to keep the area clean and dry. Cotton is a breathable fabric that can help keep the area well-aerated and speed up healing. It will also provide a protective layer between your clothes and the hemorrhoids, reducing friction.
Thin, loose-fitting cotton underwear is ideal. Cotton underwear will quickly soak up any moisture or sweat, keeping the area dry. It will also provide a soft layer between your clothes and your skin, reducing friction and discomfort. Make sure to wear clean underwear, as germs can irritate the hemorrhoids and cause infections. It's also a good idea to invest in multiple pairs of underwear, as this will help you keep them clean and germ-free.
Loose-fitting trousers made of thin fabric can also help reduce pain and irritation. Tight-fitting jeans, for example, can add pressure to the hemorrhoid bumps, causing pain and bleeding. Thin, loose-fitting trousers will reduce this pressure and help keep the area dry and clean. This is especially important if you are sitting for long periods, as this can press the hemorrhoids against the surface of the seat and cause them to rupture and bleed.
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Apply a cold compress
Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for a few minutes can minimise pain and reduce swelling. This is particularly helpful for painful, swollen hemorrhoids.
To apply a cold compress, wrap an ice cube in a disposable cloth and apply it to the outside of the anus for 5-10 minutes at a time. Make sure to keep the ice off the hemorrhoid with a layer of clothing or cloth. You can also use a frozen gel pack, which can be purchased from most pharmacies.
Cold therapy helps with new hemorrhoids by slowing blood flow to the area, thus reducing the amount of swelling. It will also numb the region to provide immediate relief from pain, burning, or itching. You can keep re-applying the cold compress for as long as it is comfortable for you.
Once you have managed the initial swelling with cold therapy, you can move on to heat therapy with a microwavable gel pack or a warm sitz bath. Heat therapy will help to heal the hemorrhoid and promote healthy blood flow.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to ease hemorrhoid pain through lifestyle changes. Firstly, increasing your fibre intake and drinking plenty of water can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements, reducing strain and pressure on hemorrhoids. You can also try wearing loose, cotton clothing, especially at bedtime, to improve breathability.
Sitz baths, which are small plastic tubs of warm water that can be attached to toilets, can help alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms. Soaking in one of these for 15 minutes can provide relief from pain and itching. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for a few minutes can also help to minimise pain and reduce swelling.
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical hemorrhoid creams, ointments, and medicated wipes can offer significant relief from discomfort. These often contain hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine to reduce common hemorrhoid symptoms. In more severe cases, a doctor or pharmacist may recommend taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to relieve pain and alleviate inflammation and swelling.
