What Should I Do About My Recurring Hemorrhoids?

While hemorrhoids aren’t usually a health risk, their presence can take the enjoyment out of life quickly. And when they recur, the accompanying itching, irritation, and painful bowel movements are even bigger problems. 

Sometimes, recurring hemorrhoids require surgical interventions to break the cycle. Fortunately, this is usually rare. 

For the best advice about treating your recurring hemorrhoids, visit Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado. Our proctologist, Lisa A. Perryman, FACS, FASCRS, specializes in hemorrhoid diagnosis and treatment. 

In many cases, home care could be all you need to clear up the condition. Making a few minor lifestyle changes could also prevent future problems. 

Types of hemorrhoids

There are two types of hemorrhoids; the symptoms you experience depend on which type you have. 

Internal hemorrhoids originate in the rectum. Most of the time you can’t feel or see these, and they rarely cause discomfort or pain. However, you might have bright red rectal bleeding after a bowel movement, or a protruding hemorrhoid may be pushed through the anus, where it can become irritated or painful. 

External hemorrhoids form under the skin near the anus. These tend to be more symptomatic, causing problems like: 

• Discomfort or pain
• Irritation and itching around the anus
• Localized swelling

Blood can sometimes clot, causing a thrombosed external hemorrhoid. These tend to present as hard lumps that cause severe pain and inflammation. 

What should I do about my recurring hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoid symptoms can clear on their own or with home care. Try the following to clear up the symptoms of a current hemorrhoid condition: 

• Temporary use of over-the-counter (OTC) topical medications containing hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or witch hazel
• OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control pain and swelling
• Stool softeners to minimize pain and tissue damage during bowel movements
• Warm bath soaks daily for up to 20 minutes

As your current hemorrhoids come under control, you can make several changes to reduce the risk of recurrence. These include: 

• Increase your water intake as a natural stool softener and constipation preventative.
• Add dietary fiber to reach 20 to 35 grams per day, which adds bulk and softens stools. Fiber sources include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and dietary supplements.
• Don’t wait to empty your bowel. Use the toilet at the first urge.
• Use a bathroom stool to encourage a squatting posture that helps ease bowel movements.
• Keep the anus area clean with gentle wiping, washing, and fragrance-free soaps.
• Keep the anus area dry with cotton underwear and comfortable outerwear.

When your home care efforts fail to relieve the symptoms of recurring hemorrhoids, contact Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists for an exam and effective treatment plan. Schedule an appointment online or by phone.