What are the treatments for internal hemorrhoids?
Thursday, April 29th, 2010 at
9:50 am
and dose drinking water stop the hemorrhoids from expanding, Because every time that I stop drinking water for a period of time the spasms in my tummy return even low my bowls are empty.
Filed under: Hemorrhoids Treatments
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I hope they are not this bad -
http://www.unboundedmedicine.com/wp-content/hemorrhoidal%20prolapse.jpg
If they are, sorry.
Medical treatment of hemorrhoids is initially aimed at relieving symptoms. Measures to reduce symptoms include:
* warm tub or sitz baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes
* ice packs to help reduce swelling
* application of petroleum jelly, cortisone creams, hemorrhoidal cream (such as Preparation-H) or suppositories to the affected area
* wearing cotton underwear and loose clothing
* cleaning the anus after each bowel movement by patting gently with moist toilet paper or moistened pads
* taking acetaminophen or aspirin
For hemorrhoids that don’t respond to self-care measures, there are some other techniques to alleviate the hemorrhoids:
For treatment of internal hemorrhoids, one of five methods is usually used:
1. Rubber Band Ligation – This procedure involves placing a small rubber band at the base of the internal hemorrhoid. The band cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrivel up and fall off in about four to seven days.
2. Injection Sclerotherapy – This procedure involves injecting a chemical solution into the mucous membrane near the hemorrhoid. This chemical causes inflammation and closure of the veins, thereby shrinking the hemorrhoid.
3. Infrared Photocoagulation – This procedure involves directing an infrared light to coagulate (clot) the dilated veins of the hemorrhoid. This causes the hemorrhoids to shrink, since the blood does not flow through the coagulated blood vessels.
4. Laser Coagulation – This new procedure involves the application of an electric current to the hemorrhoids. The electric current, emitted by an electrode probe, triggers a chemical reaction that shuts down the blood supply in the hemorrhoid and causes the inflamed tissue to shrink.
5. Hemorrhoidectomy – This procedure involves surgically removing the hemorrhoid groups in the anal canal, and is performed with a scalpel, cautery device or laser.
For the treatment of external hemorrhoids, one of three methods is used:
1. Infrared Photocoagulation
2. Laser Coagulation
3. Hemorrhoidectomy
For the treatment of a prolapsed hemorrhoid, a hemorrhoidectomy is recommended.
For the treatment of a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, drainage of the hemorrhoid or a hemorrhoidectomy is recommended.
Self Care
Most hemorrhoids heal on their own in a week or two. Hemorrhoids have a tendency to return unless something is done to prevent them. The most effective preventive measures are:
* Eat between 25 and 30 grams of fiber a day.
* Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
* Increase your amount of daily physical activity.
* Add stool softeners or laxatives to diet. Consult with the doctor regarding the prolonged use of stool softeners and laxatives.
* Lose weight.
* Change bowel habits. Respond to the urge to defecate and stay relaxed to avoid straining.
* Exercise the buttocks muscles.
* Practice good personal hygiene. Keep the anal area clean and avoid using rough toilet paper.
Here’s a gist of the hemorrhoid treatments available:
1. A Healthy High-Fiber Diet
Since hemorrhoids is associated with constipation and an uncomfortable bowel movement, it is only practical that we take care with what we eat and digest. Hemorrhoids come from the strain of excreting hard stools that we have to pressure out of our body. Fiber is known to help with our body’s digestive process. With a high-fiber diet, we can help make digestion and excretion easier and less painful. High-fiber foods include vegetables and fruits, so be sure to include these in your meals.
2. Drink in Lots of Water
Water is also an essential part of making the illness easier to handle. Water also helps in regulating the digestive flow, and can also help in providing a smooth relief. Be sure to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water a day, and make this a habit.
3. Squatting and Sitting
Now this may not be the normal way we use the toilet, but the squatting stance has been mentioned to help with the treatment of hemorrhoids. This tip has not yet been criticized nor approved. Reports on the effect of using the squat position when on the toilet is highly suggestive that it can help, however.
There is also the matter of the “sitting time limit.” Some doctors recommend that people with hemorrhoids avoid sitting for long periods of time. If it is possible to get your hands on an air doughnut, or any chair that does not cause discomfort when sitting, then do so.
4. Hydrotherapy or Sitz Bathing
Speaking of sitting. a sitz bath is also recommended by some doctors, specifically a warm one. This process has to be done three times a day and after each bowel movement. Just sit in a tub with a few inches of warm water for 15 minutes. This will help to lessen the pain after your bowel movement. Just be sure to get dry thoroughly afterwards.
5. Medicine and/or Herbal Treatments
Of course, taking medicine is also part of the hemorrhoid treatment. There are many creams, ointments, and drugs that are used to cure hemorrhoids. If you go for herbal treatment, then first find out which plant and herbs are effective against the illness. Aloe Vera is said to have a soothing effect. However, we have to remember, that the drugs and creams may have side effects. We also have to consider that they just provide temporary relief for the illness.
Here’s a supplement that can help:
http://www.progressivehealth.com/catalog/Avatrol.htm