Hemorrhoids Self-Treatment Suggestions from Pharmacist

Do your bowel movements or the area around your anus cause you to itch, bloat, feel tender, or hurt? Hemorrhoids are inflamed, swollen veins that are situated around the anus and lower rectum. Relieve hemorrhoids in various ways. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are secure and efficient can be suggested by your pharmacist. Although talking about hemorrhoids may be awkward, there is no need to be ashamed because they are very common and simple to treat.

Hemorrhoids

Depending on where the swelling occurs, hemorrhoids can be categorized as external, internal, or a combination of both. Anal hemorrhage, soreness, irritation, edema, stiffness, bulging of the skin, and pain during bowel movements are typical symptoms. More extreme symptoms should be assessed by your doctor, even though mild cases can be treated by self-care.

Hemorrhoids Relief with Over-the-counter Products

Flare-ups of hemorrhoids are extremely common, especially during times of high stress. Fortunately, your local pharmacist has a wide selection of OTC items. If you have any questions about the following products, be sure to ask your pharmacist. He can help point you in the right direction, educate you, and provide assistance.

Soothing agents

By immediately numbing the nerve signals present in the inflamed area, soothing medicines reduce discomfort. OTC products include pramoxine and lidocaine.

Steroid rectal cream or suppositories

Chemicals that induce inflammation throughout the body are prevented by steroids. If problems persist despite using soothing medications, this is a smart choice. Only use soothing products and steroid creams for external hemorrhoids. OTC items include suppositories or creams containing hydrocortisone.

Softening stools

Avoid constipation with a balanced, healthy diet that emphasizes getting enough fiber (20 to 30 grams of insoluble fiber per day) and drinks (2 liters or four water bottles per day). Whole grains, legumes, veggies, fruits, or nuts are a few foods that include fiber. Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter fiber supplements or over-the-counter stools-softening solutions. Avoid overusing these products as diarrhea might exacerbate hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids Treatment Without Medicine

The lifestyle recommendations below can help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms. You can utilize them in conjunction with medical therapy:

• Be physically active to increase blood circulation, but stay away from activities like biking and heavy lifting that could aggravate hemorrhoids.
• If a medical professional approves, look about a donut seat cushion. You may sit down without placing undue strain on your hemorrhoids thanks to this donut-shaped pillow. To make sure you are adequately comfortable, be sure to read the directions on the correct use and pay attention to your body.
• To encourage fissure recovery and blood flow, take a 15-minute sitz bath 2-3 times a day at lukewarm levels. Fill a clean bathtub with 4-5 inches of lukewarm water, either with or without two cups of Epsom salt, to perform this task at home. A hemorrhoid kit that lays a plastic basin on top of the toilet seat for convenient soaking may also be available from your pharmacy.
• To ease pain, apply an ice pack for 10 minutes three to four times each day. To avoid getting an ice burn, always place a clean cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Try to wear breathable cotton instead of constricting polyester clothing. Detergents without scents can also be helpful.
• Avoid spending a lot of time sitting down because doing so puts strain on your hemorrhoids.
• Avoid delaying bowel motions or straining if you have constipation because doing so, puts pressure on your hemorrhoids. Also, use baby wipes without fragrances, and be sure to wipe them gently.
• If you have a complicated medical history, are pregnant, have irritable bowel syndrome, have a compromised immune system, are using blood thinners, have liver disease, or are due for a colonoscopy (screening starts at age 45), you should not self-treat without consulting a doctor.

What If I Alter My Lifestyle and Try OTC Medications But My Symptoms Persist?

It is crucial that you visit your doctor if symptoms do not improve after a week, if there is intense pain or bleeding, or if the hemorrhoids affect your quality of life. Your doctor can inspect your hemorrhoids, rule out other illnesses, and go over more treatment choices.

The Bottom Line

Asking for assistance might be painful on top of the already existing discomfort that hemorrhoids can cause. You have nothing to be afraid of because pharmacists can recommend the ideal treatment for you. Be sure to include a detailed history of your medications and hemorrhoids.