Note: The information presented in this article is provided for informational purposes only and in no way constitutes professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or qualified health care professional with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. The information contained herein is not intended to replace the advice or prescriptions of your physician.
External hemorrhoids affect 75% of the population during their lifetime. They can be caused by pregnancy, a low-fiber diet, constipation and other conditions.
A hemorrhoidal disorder can be painful and embarrassing, and sufferers are often looking for a quick fix. These solutions may aim to relieve pain, alleviate symptoms or treat the underlying cause.
Pain relief
There are many artificial and natural solutions to help relieve the pain of hemorrhoidal attacks.
Among synthetic solutions, lidocaine is often used as an anesthetic. Lidocaine acts by inhibiting the ionic reflux required for nerve impulse initiation and conduction, thus alleviating pain. Its effect can be very rapid (after one minute).
Finally, there are "grandmother's solutions" to reduce pain. Although these solutions do not necessarily have scientific proof to back them up, they can be used in combination with other, more rigorous methods.
For example, sitz baths (soaking the buttocks in warm water several times a day) are sometimes suggested for their soothing effect.
Alleviating symptoms
Pain relief isn't everything, however: some treatments directly affect hemorrhoidal symptoms, offering longer-term relief.
Corticosteroid creams are a frequently used treatment for hemorrhoids. They are generally subject to prescription: contact your doctor to obtain a treatment plan adapted to your situation.
Your doctor will also be able to help you assess the suitability of an operation. There are also several possible surgical protocols for treating hemorrhoids, from which your doctor can help you choose if necessary: hemorrhoidectomy, ligation treatment, cryotherapy, etc.
Treating underlying causes
Finally, one approach to treating hemorrhoids is to treat not just the symptoms, but the underlying causes that can lead to these symptoms.
The causes of hemorrhoids are multiple and still a subject of research, but it is commonly accepted that possible causes are:
- Transit problems: these can lead to diarrhea or constipation, which can cause a hemorrhoidal attack. For this, it's a good idea to eat a diet rich in fiber (the Butt Butter dietary supplement contains Psyllium, which facilitates transit).
- Poor circulation: hemorrhoids are an inflammation of the blood vessels in the anus. This can be linked to poor circulation. Consumption of Horse Chestnut or Tarragon can improve circulation and help reduce symptoms.
- Blockage of the portal vein: the portal vein, whose blockage may be linked to the proper functioning of the liver, is often considered a possible cause of hemorrhoids. Ingredients such as chicory or black radish can be used to improve liver function and reduce hemorrhoidal symptoms.
Consult a doctor
Whatever your approach, remember to consult a doctor, who will be the best person to provide you with a prescription and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms.