Beverly Hills Colonoscopy doctor, Dr. Berookim finds that with age, comes a high risk of hemorrhoids. Blood vessels become swollen around the outer rectum and anus, which can turn bowel movements into a painful experience.
Hemorrhoids happen in two ways:
Internal type hemorrhoids occur within the rectum.
External type hemorrhoids occur around the anus itself both of which can cause pain and bleeding.
These 5 simple steps can be taken to ease the pain of hemorrhoids and allow for healing:
1. Increase the Fiber
Adding fibrous foods or supplements such as psyllium husk or Metamucil to your diet can help ease bowel movements. If these supplements cause gas or bloating, a supplement containing wheat dextrin or methylcellulose may help.
2. Lubricate
A tablespoon of mineral oil to yogurt allows stool to slide past the hemorrhoid easily causing less pain. However, doing this for long periods of time can create oil leakage and you should line undergarments with absorbent materials.
3. Don’t Wait
Use the bathroom immediately once you feel the urge. Delaying bowel movements can cause constipation and will aggravate the hemorrhoids.
4. Over-the-Counter Remedies
Preparation H, witch hazel pads, and soothing creams are all offered over the counter that can relieve discomfort and pain with hemorrhoids.
5. Sitz baths
Placing a basin or washbowl that fits underneath the toilet seat and soaking the inflamed area two to three times a day in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes can also reduce the pain of hemorrhoids. Also elevating your feet while sitting on the toilet with a step stool changes the position of your rectum that will create an easier way for stool to pass.
About Gi Doctor
Dr. Peyton Berookim is a Beverly Hills colonoscopy doctor who can easily treat your hemorrhoids. Schedule a consultation with him here and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
