Conservative Treatment

Home remedies and creams

A number of home remedies like Sitz bath, apple cider vinegar and over the counter creams are available to help alleviate hemorrhoid discomfort. Sitz bath lower anal canal pressure and provide some relief. Creams containing steroids decrease inflammation and local anesthetic decrease pain. These interventions put a Band-Aid over the problem and don’t eliminate the underlying cause.

Prevention

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure

Avoid constipation, prolonged sitting on the toilet, reduce weight, avoid heavy lifting, Increase fiber in diet Drink eight glasses of water a day

Fiber Treatment

Benefiber for hemorrhoidsInsufficient fiber in the diet can lead to constipation which may result in the development of hemorrhoids and/or anal fissures. Increased fiber intake has been shown to reduce constipation by softening the stool and increasing the regularity of bowel movements.

Soluble fiber (such as Benefiber®) is easy to incorporate into your diet as it is tasteless and can be mixed with food or drink. Begin with 1 tbsp once a day and then gradually increase to 1 tbsp 3 times a day over the period of a few days. Stir Benefiber® into 4-8 ounces of liquid (carbonated beverages are not recommended) or mix with soft food (hot or cold). Stir well until dissolved. Increase your fluid intake as necessary to ensure you are drinking 7-8 glasses of water every day. Supplemental fiber should be taken with meals for greatest benefit.

Many less-expensive generic versions of Benefiber® are available with similar active components.