Prolapsed Hemorrhoid
Untreated internal hemorrhoids can lead to a more severe form of hemorrhoids and that is prolapsed hemorrhoids. A prolapsed hemorrhoid is an internal hemorrhoid that is so distended that it is pushed outside the anus. The appearance of these prolapsed hemorrhoids is as small grape like masses. There may be leaking of fluid or mucus and they could be itchy or painful. The Banov grading system for internal hemorrhoids says:
Hemorrhoids that do not prolapse are grade I
Hemorrhoids that prolapse upon defecation but spontaneously reduce are grade II
Hemorrhoids that prolapse upon defecation but must be manually reduced are grade III and
Hemorrhoids that prolapse and cannot be manually reduced are grade IV
You can often prevent or treat hemorrhoids and even prolapsed hemorrhoids by making sure you do not get constipated. Some of the following diet and lifestyle changes may help you to soften your stool, establish more regularity in your bowel movements and avoid the straining that can lead to hemorrhoids in the first place:
Add more fiber to your diet by setting a daily goal of 25 to 35 grams of fiber with foods such as beans, broccoli, carrots, bran, whole grains and fresh fruits.
Drink more fluid such as 6 to 8 daily glasses of water.
Begin a program of regular exercise such as a daily brisk walk of at least 20 minutes.
Train your digestive tracts to have a regular bowel movement where you sit on the toilet at roughly the same time each day preferably just after a meal. But never sit on the toilet for long periods.
Respond immediately to the urge to have a bowel movement.
Take fiber powder supplement if necessary.
In addition you can help any pain and discomfort you are experiencing with your prolapsed hemorrhoids by:
Sitting in a tub or bowl of plain warm water 3 or 4 times per day for 15-20 minutes. The water will keep the area clean while the warmth will reduce inflammation and discomfort. Dry the area gently and thoroughly after each soaking.
Applying a cold compress, an icepack or a cool cotton pad soaked in witch hazel to the anal area.
Applying petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel to the anal area or use an over the counter hemorrhoid preparation containing lidocaine or hydrocortisone.
Cleaning the anal area after every bowel movement with a witch hazel pad, a soothing baby wipe or a cotton cloth soaked in warm water, while avoiding any aggressive rubbing and scrubbing to this sensitive area.
If you have severe prolapsed hemorrhoids, you will need to see your medical practitioner and he may well recommend one of the following treatment options for prolapsed hemorrhoids:
Rubber band ligation. A rubber band is slipped around the base of the prolapsed hemorrhoid to cut off its circulation.
Sclerotherapy. An irritating chemical solution is injected directly into the prolapsed hemorrhoids, or the surrounding area, which causes a local reaction that interferes with the blood flow inside the hemorrhoids making them shrink.
Coagulation Therapies. These treatments use electricity, a laser or infrared light to destroy prolapsed hemorrhoids by burning.
Hemorrhoidectomy. Although this surgical removal of prolapsed hemorrhoids is painful, it is effective.
Remember that although hemorrhoids can occur at any time, they become more common with advancing age. But is it never too late to start living a healthier lifestyle so that you can avoid hemorrhoids and prolapsed hemorrhoids in the first place.
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