Hemorrhoids

Synonyms: Lump in the rectum, rectal nodule

Hemorrhoids are painful swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus.

Treatment

The treatment for hemorrhoids include:

• ointments with steroids sold without a prescription to help reduce pain and swelling

• Ointments for hemorrhoids with lidocaine to help reduce pain

• Emollients that help reduce stress and constipation

Lotion made from the bark of witch hazel (applied with cotton swabs) can reduce itching. Other precautions to reduce itching include:

• Wear cotton underwear.

• Avoid scented toilet paper or colored (using perfumed handkerchiefs instead).

• Avoid scratching the area.

Sitz baths can help you feel better. Sit in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes.

If your hemorrhoids do not improve with home treatments, you may need some kind of heat treatment to reduce hemorrhoids. It is called infrared coagulation. This may help to avoid surgery.

The surgery can be performed for the treatment of hemorrhoids include band ligation or hemorrhoidectomy. These procedures are generally used in patients with severe pain or bleeding who have not responded to other treatments.

Prevention

Constipation and straining during defecation increase the risk of hemorrhoids. To avoid constipation and hemorrhoids, you should:

• Drink plenty of fluids, at least eight glasses a day.

• Follow a diet with high fiber content of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

• contemplate the use of fiber supplements.

• Use emollients to avoid stress.