Hemorrhoids are actually not rare. In fact, about 50 percent of people over the age of 50 have hemorrhoids, although they can affect anyone. Often hemorrhoids do not need to be treated with anything other than over-the-counter treatments. Here are some other tips for managing hemorrhoid flare ups.
Increase Fiber
Increasing your fiber intake is the best way to combat hemorrhoids. If you are getting plenty of fiber in your diet, it will help you keep regular bowel habits. When you have regular bowel habits, the veins of the rectum are not stressed, which means that the hemorrhoid either doesn’t form at all or, in the case of a flare, it is not made more painful.
Smooth Sailing
You can also make your hemorrhoids less painful during bowel movements by adding a little something to your food. Stirring in a spoonful of mineral oil, yogurt, or applesauce will help bowel movements move through the anus more smoothly, which can help keep the hemorrhoid from bleeding and causing extreme pain.
Bowel Movements
Make sure that you go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement. Going right away instead of waiting will allow the stool to pass more smoothly and with less difficulty, which is important during hemorrhoid flares. You should also not force a bowel movement. Many people try to have their bowel movement at the same time every day, but that is not always practical.
Sitz Baths
A sitz bath is basically a shallow bath of warm, but not hot, water. Sitz baths can offer some amazing relief when hemorrhoids are really acting up. If you have hemorrhoid flare ups and these measures and over-the-counter creams do not help alleviate your symptoms, you may need additional medical treatment. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your appointment.