Thrombosed hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins that are located in the rectal or anal area. The increased pressure causes blood to pool and clot in the veins, which then leads to a swollen lump or thrombosed hemorrhoid.
This increased pressure is typically caused by factors such as straining during bowel movements, obesity, sitting for long periods of time, poor diet, dehydration, pregnancy, chronic constipation, or diarrhea.
There are lifestyle changes that can be made in order to help prevent thrombosed hemorrhoids. Drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, getting regular exercise, avoiding long periods of sitting, treating any underlying conditions that may cause constipation, and avoiding straining while having a bowel movement can all help to reduce the risk of thrombosed hemorrhoids.
Additionally, over the counter topical treatments may help to relieve symptoms of thrombosed hemorrhoids.
How do you stop hemorrhoids from being thrombosed?
The best way to stop hemorrhoids from becoming thrombosed is by making lifestyle changes that can help reduce strain and pressure on the area. This may include eating high-fiber foods, increasing your water intake, and exercising regularly to help improve digestion and promote regular bowel movements.
Additionally, using moist towelettes instead of dry toilet paper can be gentler on the skin in that area and help reduce irritation. Additionally, it is important to stay off your feet and reduce strain or pressure to the area as much as possible, such as avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time.
It is also important to practice good hygiene in the area and use products that are designed to provide relief, such as ointments, creams, and gels that may help reduce inflammation and help soothe the area.
It is also important to see a healthcare professional if there is any indication of a thrombosis, as a doctor can diagnose the condition and determine the best course of treatment.
What is the fastest way to shrink a thrombosed hemorrhoid?
The fastest way to shrink a thrombosed hemorrhoid is to keep the anal area clean, practice warm water baths (sitz baths), and using a handheld bidet to assist with keeping the area clean. Additionally, you should increase your fiber intake by eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, so that you have regular, soft bowel movements.
Over-the-counter topical medications can also be used to relieve symptoms, such as hemorrhoid creams or ointments that contain numbing medications and witch hazel, a natural astringent. Your doctor may also suggest taking oral medications, such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation.
Lastly, in cases of severe thrombosed hemorrhoids, your doctor may need to surgically remove the hemorrhoid.
Can thrombosed hemorrhoids go away?
Yes, thrombosed hemorrhoids can go away in most cases. Despite the severe pain that a thrombosed hemorrhoid can cause, it is not a serious medical condition and it can usually heal on its own within a matter of days.
You can relieve the pain of thrombosed hemorrhoids while they heal by applying a cold compress to the area, taking a sitz bath, using an over-the-counter ointment to reduce swelling, and taking ibuprofen or other pain medications.
In some cases, your doctor may perform a minor surgery to remove the clot and reduce the pain within a few days.
How long does it take for a thrombosed hemorrhoid to go away on its own?
It typically takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a thrombosed hemorrhoid to go away on its own. In some cases, it can take longer depending on the severity of the hemorrhoid and the steps taken to reduce the symptoms.
To help ease the symptoms and speed healing, it is important to keep the area clean and dry, apply warm compress to the area, take pain relief medications, and avoid straining during bowel movements.
Additionally, certain lifestyle changes like increasing fiber and fluids in the diet, drinking more water, and exercising regularly can help in reducing the symptoms and promoting healing. If the symptoms persist after a few weeks or your condition does not improve, it is best to seek medical attention for further treatment.
When should I go to the doctor for thrombosed hemorrhoids?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms associated with thrombosed hemorrhoids, you should see a doctor: acute, intense pain; swelling or a hard lump around the anus; bright-red blood on toilet tissue, stool, or in the toilet bowl; difficulty urinating or defecating; and fever or chills.
Furthermore, you should see a doctor if you are experiencing persistent rectal bleeding, itching, or if the pain persists longer than one week. A doctor can examine you and confirm if you have thrombosed hemorrhoids and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.