There are a number of simple strategies you can employ to relieve itching and soreness caused by hemorrhoids. These include eating more fiber-rich food, avoiding constipation, using soothing wipes or witch hazel on anal areas after bowel movements, and applying soothing wipes directly.
Avoid stimulating laxatives like Senna, as these may cause diarrhea and exacerbate hemorrhoids. Instead, opt for bulk-forming laxatives like Stool Softeners as bulk-forming options are usually more beneficial.
What is the Best Stool Softener For Hemorrhoids?
1. Colace(r) Stool Softeners
Stool softeners can be an effective remedy for constipation and hemorrhoids, particularly external ones, since they’re safe to take. Stool softeners work by drawing normal body water into stool to soften it for removal; over-the-counter products typically utilize synthetic materials like methyl cellulose or natural fiber to achieve this result.
They may even help relieve occasional constipation which is one common cause of hemorrhoids as well as accompanying straining symptoms.
Stool softeners may also be combined with sitz baths – wherein one soaks in a bucket that fits beneath the toilet seat – to ease itching and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
A step stool may also be beneficial, lifting both feet at once to change your anal area position while relieving straining. Docusate has proven itself an effective and safe stool softener option in patients suffering from painful anorectal conditions.
2. Colostrum
Constipation is one of the primary causes of hemorrhoids, and laxatives may help manage and even prevent worsening of symptoms by relieving constipation; however, their use can become habit-forming, creating an ongoing cycle of dependency which only brings more and more discomfort.
Colostrum is the first milk produced after birth and contains various components including immunoglobulins, antimicrobial peptides, non-protein nitrogen, ash, vitamins and minerals – in addition to being rich in both insoluble and soluble fiber that helps soften stool.
Introduce colostrum into your diet to ease constipation and soften stool, or consult a Los Angeles proctologist, to identify an effective stool softener.
Warm bath or sitz bath several times each day may also help soothe anal area irritation by relaxing the sphincter muscle that hurts when pooping, as well as topical options like ice packs and unscented pretreated wipes; witch hazel ointment applied directly inside anus can provide soothing comfort while helping reduce inflammation.
3. Fiber Supplements
Most people can obtain enough fiber through diet that includes whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables. If this is not sufficient to alleviate constipation symptoms, your physician may suggest stool softeners to ease constipation or other remedies such as warm sitz baths and over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams as possible solutions.
A high-fiber diet may help manage hemorrhoids by relieving constipation. This may in turn relieve any associated pain, itching or soiling caused by hemorrhoids. Soluble gel-forming fibers such as psyllium or wheat bran tend to work best for this purpose.
Fiber absorbs water in your digestive tract, softening stools and making them easier to pass. Studies show that eating high-fiber diets may reduce symptoms associated with internal hemorrhoids like bleeding and prolapse.
Other symptoms can include rectal itching and pain relief provided by over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen; however long term usage could increase constipation levels leading to hemorrhoids.
4. Ginger
Hemorrhoids are itchy inflammations of small veins near the anus and rectum. Hemorrhoids can be managed through various simple strategies, including eating a diet rich in fiber and fluid intake and taking sitz baths (a basin fitted under your toilet seat where you sit for 10-15 minutes after each bowel movement).
Straining to have a bowel movement is often the main trigger or aggravator for hemorrhoids. The discomfort caused by straining can enlarge anal veins and eventually result in symptoms like rectal bleeding, prolapse and itching which are indicative of hemorrhoids.
Over-the-counter stool softeners may help alleviate this discomfort by making stools softer and easier to pass, alleviating chronic constipation that contributes to hemorrhoids, and relieving chronic constipation which is one of the contributing factors of hemorrhoids.
Home remedies, including witch hazel infused pads, soothing creams, and sitz baths may provide additional relief; for more serious cases your doctor may also suggest prescription anti-inflammatory/numbing agents as an additional measure.
How Long Does It Take for Stool Softeners to Work
When it comes to stool softeners, it usually takes between 12 to 72 hours for them to take effect, as stated by the National Center for Biotechnology Information and Cleveland Clinic. Specifically, docusate sodium (Colace) typically provides relief within 1 to 3 days.
However, it is crucial to follow the recommended dosage and avoid overuse, as excessive use can lead to serious medical complications. If there are persistent changes in bowel habits lasting over 2 weeks or if stools remain hard despite a week of using stool softeners, consulting a doctor is advised.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using Stool Softeners for Hemorrhoids
While stool softeners are generally well-tolerated by individuals with hemorrhoids, there are potential side effects that may cause discomfort.
Here are some possible side effects associated with using stool softeners for hemorrhoids:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
Again, it is essential to emphasize that stool softeners should be taken as directed and not exceeded beyond the recommended dosage, as misuse can lead to severe medical issues.
If there are persistent changes in bowel habits or if stools remain hard despite using stool softeners for a week, seeking medical advice is recommended. Prior to using stool softeners for hemorrhoids, it is crucial to discuss potential side effects with a doctor, just as with any medication.
