Tips for Hemorrhoids Sufferers
We might giggle when we see a TV character squirming on a round pillow because of hemorrhoids, but if you have them you know they’re no laughing matter. They can be quite painful and uncomfortable, impacting your life at work, home, and in bed.
Also known as piles, hemorrhoids are swollen blood veins around the anus and rectal opening. They can be internal or external and depending on the severity, they can cause itchiness, pain, or bleeding. Thankfully, there are several ways you can get relief from your piles symptoms.
How to Sleep Without Triggering Hemorrhoid Pain
It can be hard to get comfortable in bed when you are suffering from hemorrhoid pain. To help make it easier to sleep, wear loose fitting PJ’s and if you wear undergarments to bed, make sure they are clean and made of cotton.
Even though it may not feel natural at first, try to sleep on your stomach to prevent yourself from putting pressure on your backside. Putting a pillow under your hips can help keep you from rolling over into other positions.
What to Wear
Like your loose PJs, during the day you should try to wear loose fitting clothing and clean, cotton underwear. Tight clothing can increase body heat and moisture which may further irritate your hemorrhoids.
Stimulate Bowel Movements
One of the major causes of hemorrhoids is excessive straining from constipation. If constipation gives you hemorrhoids, straining can become even more painful. To stimulate bowel movements and ease constipation, you can try:
- Eating a diet rich in fibre
- Drinking plenty of water
- Exercising to strengthen and loosen your muscles
- Relaxing your body and mind
Hemorrhoids Medications
Another effective way to reduce pain and discomfort from hemorrhoids is with medication. Many hemorrhoids medications are topical, meaning they are applied directly to the hemorrhoids to provide relief and even shrink the hemorrhoids.
- Proctosedyl Ointment: A dual-action ointment that not only helps with the pain and discomfort of piles, but helps reduce their size, too. For internal hemorrhoids, an applicator is included.
- Scheriproct: A combination topical medication with steroids and an anaesthetic to reduce inflammation and give pain and itch relief. For internal application, a cannula is provided.
Scheriproct and Proctosedyl Ointment are available to buy online in the UK from Pharmacy Planet. A trusted online pharmacy, Pharmacy Planet will ship your medications swiftly and safely to your doorstep.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925