Hemorrhoids can feel embarrassing and talking about the problem is a taboo topic for many. Many feel that they cannot talk about their problems and are reluctant to seek care. But hemorrhoids are very common, so common that at least half of all adults get them at some point. Here you will find tips and products that help alleviate or get rid of the discomfort.
Hemorrhoids that bleed, hurt and itch
The symptoms of hemorrhoids are usually blood after wiping. It can also itch and burn at the anus and hurt when going to the toilet. Hemorrhoids can feel like bulges or balls at the rectal opening. Sometimes it leaks gas and stool without being able to stop it, because the bulges can prevent it from closing tightly. If these bumps become inflamed, it can hurt.
Internal and external hemorrhoids
Often you have both internal and external hemorrhoids at the same time. The outer ones sit in the skin at the anal opening and the inner ones sit inside the lower part of the intestine. Even the insides can slide down and stick out through the anal opening. Both types are usually completely harmless, but if you are bleeding from the rectum for the first time, it is good to check that it is due to hemorrhoids and not something else. The same applies if the blood changes color or is mixed in the stool – then it is also necessary to contact a doctor.
Medication for hemorrhoids: over-the-counter ointment or suppositories
In most cases, hemorrhoids disappear on their own or with the help of over-the-counter medications. Some medicines relieve pain and itching, while others also reduce inflammation or constrict blood vessels. If you mostly have problems with itching, you can use Alsocanal. To reduce bleeding and treat both itching and inflammation, you can choose Lidocaine Hydrochloride or Prednisolone. These drugs are available either as suppositories that you insert into the rectum, or as ointment that you apply to the hemorrhoids and around the rectal opening. The drugs are usually used for two to three weeks. If it hurts to go to the toilet, a local anesthetic ointment such as Xylocaine can be used temporarily. All of the above is available from most pharmacies in the city. Some prefer ordering hemorrhoids medications online to avoid the embarrassing moment at the cash desk – but also to save money, since medicines at World Trust Pharmacy or Walmart are often significantly cheaper.
Hemorrhoids in pregnancy and constipation
During pregnancy, the pressure on the blood vessels at the rectum becomes higher and therefore hemorrhoids are particularly common during pregnancy. They usually disappear after childbirth. Constipation is also something that usually worsens the symptoms. After being constipated, it can take at least six weeks for the hemorrhoids to disappear. More tips on what to do in case of constipation.
Food and exercise for hemorrhoids
If you have mild problems with hemorrhoids, a fiber-rich diet is usually enough to keep your stomach moving and counteract the problems. Regular exercise also helps to get rid of hemorrhoids. Follow the following dietary advice:
- Choose whole grain bread instead of white.
- Make sure the breakfast cereal has a high fiber content.
- Eat fruits and vegetables every day and do not cook the vegetables for too long.
- Drink an extra glass of water with the meal
- Eat wheat bran, linseed and prunes if you need to speed up your stomach.
If you have previously had problems with hemorrhoids, it is common for them to recur. Then it’s even more important to think about what you eat and make sure you stay physically active.
Prevent with laxatives
If you often get hemorrhoids, it can be good to prevent them with agents that make the stool softer. The longer you sit on the toilet, the more pressure there is on the rectal muscle and then it is easier to suffer from them. You can also use laxatives to reduce the pressure on the hemorrhoids and thus relieve the pain when you go to the toilet. There are several different over-the-counter medications you can use. If you are pregnant, you should choose Duphalac.
If the hemorrhoids do not disappear
There are both prescription drugs and various surgical treatments that can be used if over-the-counter drugs do not help. In the case of troublesome hemorrhoids, treatment with injection, removal with a rubber band or surgery may be necessary. Contact a doctor if you need help. If it feels difficult to visit a doctor, you can contact your pharmacist or doctor online to get an initial opinion digitally.
Contact the healthcare system if:
- You are in a lot of pain.
- It leaks mucus or feces from the rectum.
- It is the first time you have rectal bleeding, especially if you are older than 40 years.
- You have a major bleed or often have small bleeds.
- You are bleeding from the rectum and it has been more than 1 year since you had a medical examination – especially important after the age of 40.
- You do not get better within 2-3 weeks despite following our advice on rectal problems.