How to Get Quick Relief?

SITZ BATH
Sitz baths are useful in relieving hemorrhoidal symptoms quickly and taken after bowel movements, promote good anal hygiene. The patient should sit in warm water (not hot) for 10 to IS minutes, two to three times a day, and attempt complete relaxation of the anal sphincter muscle. Adding Epsom salt to the water may hastens the relief.

Plastic sitz baths that fit over the commode rim are convenient, easily cleaned and available at most pharmacies, but may not provide the complete relaxation of sitting in the tub.

STOOL SOFTENER
Stool softeners can reduce discomfort by softening the stools and keeping the bowels moving. Taking two to three table spoonsfull of Mineral Oil, a lubricant laxative, eases the passage of the stools and minimizes the discomfort.

OVER-THE-COUNTER REMEDIES
Commercial hemorrhoidal creams and ointments can soothe raw or burning areas because of the petroleum or lanolin contents. Some preparations, such as Balsam Hemorrhoid Cream, have astringents and local anesthetics to relieve pain quickly. Locally applied creams and ointments seem to he more effective than suppositories which move up into the rectum to a level where medication is not needed. Finger application may be messy, but it gets the medication precisely where it is needed.

Learn more about Balsam Hem-Roid Prep

Consult your physician if symptoms are not relieved by the simple measures above, or if a complication has developed, such as severe pain or bleeding.