How to
Care for Bleeding Hemorrhoids
Bleeding
hemorrhoids are caused by the irritation of swollen hemorrhoidal veins
and anal
tissue. They can be
external or
internal. Hemorrhoids, especially internal hemorrhoids, often go
unnoticed
until blood appears spotted on toilet paper in the stools after a bowel
movement.
Too
much
pressure on the rectal and anal veins is the most common cause of
bleeding
hemorrhoids. Straining
due to
constipation, too much sitting, poor diet, obesity, pregnancy, and lack
of
exercise are the usual suspects that bring about hemorrhoids.
Bleeding
results from inflammation of the veins and tissue in and around the
anus.
Bleeding hemorrhoids can be treated at home if they aren’t too severe. It’s important to treat a
bleeding hemorrhoid
as soon as it’s noticed to avoid enlargement and increased pain. However, if there is heavy
bleeding, severe
pain, or if the hemorrhoid is prolapsed (protruding through the anus),
a doctor
should be seen for treatment.
Self-care
and home remedies practiced regularly will usually relieve the symptoms
of
bleeding hemorrhoids. Creams,
ointments,
pads, and suppositories can be purchased over-the-counter to treat
bleeding
hemorrhoids.
Products
containing corticosteroids act as a vasoconstrictor to reduce bleeding
and
itching. Witch
hazel, petroleum jelly,
or aloe vera applied directly with a cotton swab are also effective,
soothing
home remedies.
Stay
away
from spicy foods and increase fiber in the diet.
Eat more fruits and vegetables and consider
adding a fiber supplement. Drink
at
least six glasses of water a day and avoid drinking alcohol, sodas, and
other
caffeinated beverages to promote regularity and healthy bowels.
Keeping
the
anal area dry and clean will reduce itching and irritation. Moistened toilet paper or
towelettes make
wiping after a bowel movement less painful; just be sure to gently pat
the area
dry after wiping.
Regular
soaks in warm baths cleanse and soothe inflamed hemorrhoids. A hair
dryer set
on low can be used after bathing to avoid direct contact with the raw
area. One
hundred percent cotton undergarments will also promote dryness.
Though
the
area may itch, try not to scratch as this will exacerbate the bleeding
and
further inflame the hemorrhoid. Perfumed
products and products containing alcohol, such as lotions, scented
toilet
paper, and body spray are irritants that should be avoided.
Wear
loose,
comfortable clothing that do not chafe the affected area. A doughnut-shaped foam
pillow to make sitting
easier can be bought where medical supplies are sold. If bleeding
hemorrhoids
persist beyond a few days with home self-care, seek help from a
physician who
can present medical alternatives.
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