subject: Dealing With Internal Hemorrhoids [print this page] To start with, the hemorrhoids are treated for getting relief from the symptoms. The following measures can be followed for getting relief from internal hemorrhoids.
Sitz bath - is a type of natural treatment that is commonly followed for hemorrhoids. In this method, the patient takes bath in warm water bathtub covering his buttocks and hips; this will increase the circulation of blood in that area thereby reducing the discomfort and swelling.
Ice Packs - are to be placed in the anal area for hemorrhoids that are severe.
Treat the affected areas with cortisone creams or suppositories, petroleum jelly, or hemorrhoidal cream.
Loose clothing/cotton underwear can avoid worsening the situation.
Use moist toilet paper and wipe the anus after emptying the bowel.
Pain killers - These are used only to reduce itchiness and pain; they do not heal hemorrhoids.
Enemas - Having enema with plain warm water is useful for relieving the fecal impaction and constipation.Use warm water and have enema, which helps in eliminating the constipation and fecal impaction.
OTC medications
Treatment of hemorrhoid using OTC medications is possible if it is in the early stages. Ointments, petroleum jellies, creams, and laxatives are commonly used medications. The best known treatment is to use hemorrhoids cream that contain hydrocortisone and antiseptics.
The treatments carried out for internal hemorrhoids are as follows.
Rubber Band Ligation - This treatment is carried out at the outpatient department; this is useful for treating 2nd degree internal hemorrhoids. This is a non-surgical procedure wherein a rubber band is tied on the tissue inflamed thereby reducing the blood flow.
Injection Sclerotherapy - This warrants injection of a chemical solution into the mucous membrane situated near the hemorrhoid. This solution helps in inflammation and closure of the veins resulting in the hemorrhoid to shrink.
Infrared Photocoagulation - is useful for treating small/medium size hemorrhoids. Infrared heat is applied on the hemorrhoids by the doctor with an IR device that coagulates the dilated veins of the hemorrhoids. The coagulated blood vessels do not permit the blood flow thereby cutting the blood supply and so the hemorrhoids die.
Laser Coagulation - This technique is relatively new and in this treatment electric current is applied through the hemorrhoids. This new technique results in stopping the blood supply to the hemorrhoids which in turn causes the hemorrhoids to shrink.
Hemorrhoidectomy - This procedure is surgical. The hemorrhoid groups in the anal canal are surgically removed using a laser, scalpel or cautery device.
