Hemorrhoids
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Hemorrhoids
July 2011
Warning: graphic butt information below...This is extremely
embarrassing, but I'd love some help. I knew my life would
change with a child, but I never realized I'd be managing
poop so intensely even after my son got out of diapers!
Years ago I had a hard labor with hours of intense pushing.
I'm going graphic here people, but frankly my anal tissue is
way looser than in the past. I was shocked to see that
instead of the nice symmetrical butt hole I used to have, I
have these sorta baggy areas. I finally figured out I need
to manually tuck myself back where I should be after I have
a bowel movement or it's just a mess. Thankfully I have no
blood when I poop and no pain at all, but I am wondering if
this would still be considered hemorrhoids. Any advice on
what you'd call this or how I can improve the situation?
Butt Kegels? A remedy of some kind? Or am I doomed to have a
saggy butt hole? I have not used Witch Hazel or Preparation
H since I don't have pain but would do so if they helped my
skin's tautness. Help! You know I am desperate if I am
sending this email out to the world...
-Tired of being a mom with messy underwear
I'm sure you'll hear from a few folks, but I can
commisserate. I had bad hemmorroids when pregnant with my
2nd baby (showed up with first, but didn't bother me). It
was horrible when I was pregnant - that would turn hard and
fill with blood and basically be so painful I couldn't sit.
It was just pressure from the baby.
In any case, post-baby, they no longer hurt, but they are
still there, and according to my dr., they don't go away.
You can pursue surgery to remove the tissue, but from what
I've heard, is not a fun surgery.
I have the same issue when going to the bathroom now - it's
embarrassing. I have the cottonelle wipes and that helps,
but it's like a project to clean up.
Wish I had some real advice, but it seems it is one of those
post-baby facts of life some of us are stuck with.
Laura
what you're describing is not hemorrhoids at all. My mom had a similar
problem, though more severe-she had to manually push her bowels up out of
her vaginal area in order to poop-due to being told to push for hours before
she was fully dilated and effaced when in labor with my brother. She ended up
requiring surgery to fix the problem. You should talk to a doctor.
anon
Witch hazel is an astringent, so it does help to repucker
you. It closes pores on your face, and is also the thing
that works the best for hemorrhoids for me. (TMI, I know.)
Not really about pain. Couldn't hurt to do the kegels. And
perhaps you could consult a proctologist? Sounds pretty
severe, you shouldn't have to live like that. Good luck.
I think Kegels could help. You may have scar tissue, or
just really funked out muscles. First, I'd have your
Dr.take a look (I know, not such a dignified thought)...
Hemorrhoids are varicose veins in the anus that pop out
and can be very painful. Sounds like you have overused
muscles...but again, I'd have someone look at them.
There are exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor...you
could probably find them on line, or working with a
personal trainer or especially a Pilates trainer would be
a great idea if you can find time and have $ to do it.
There is a woman on this site...Karen C...(can't remember)
who is a Pilates trainer and who used to teach a class
just about the Pelvic floor...maybe she'll see this
post...or maybe someone else knows her name. I want to say
Castle. Good luck...there is a cure in sight.
Pilates trainer and mom who pushed out 2 kids.
While I wish that I had some suggestions for you (I'm sure
someone else will) I just wanted to write and say thank you
for posting this super-hard-to-talk-about question - right on!
Childbirth (and aging) bring with them SO many things we
never thought we'd have to deal with (I still cross my legs
every time I sneeze AND don't really know how to talk
about. I just applaud you for putting this out there, cuz
I'm sure you're not the only one, and bet that at least a
few women will be eagerly anticipating some answers.
Wish I Had An Answer!
I missed the original message, but after my second child I had
prolapse... my doctor recommended a specialized physical
therapist with experience with post-partum problems like
these. I was in physical therapy for six months and had to
not only exercise, but go through massage treatment for the
muscles which had been badly strained... so when I was trying
to do Kegels, it was just ending up hurting me more and making
the situation worse.
I went to a place down in LA (ATPtraining.com), but if I
hadn't done the therapy my own efforts were just making the
situation worse and worse - so I would recommend getting
professional help. It made a huge difference for me!
--
My issues are nowhere near as severe as yours, but I definitely have swollen
hemorrhoids. I drink pineapple juice (not from concentrate) or eat pineapple. I
think it is bromalain in the the pineapple that reduces the swelling. It doesn't
take very much - maybe 4-6 ounces of juice twice a week. It's inexpensive,
healthy and worth a try.
hope this helps
I just wanted to chime in. This sounds to me too like beyond
hemmorhoids. Even though this may require more aggressive
treatment eventually, don't pass up pelvic floor physical
therapy.
Lizanne Pastore in SF is GREAT and she takes some
insurances. IMO it's worth the out of pocket if nec just to
find out and she WON'T waste your time and WILL include you
in what you can do. She does great soft tissue and smaller
muscle work. She's skilled & caring, a lovely person. She
works together with some doctors so she's not against more
conventional methods - which is good because some rectal
problems do require surgery.
As you may have guessed I went through major rectal issues,
pre- and post-surgery, originally caused by horrible Kaiser
childbirth. 3 1/2 hrs pushing and the PT's say it shouldn't
exceed an hour. (Oh and thanks for taking the numbing drug
out of the epidural for the pushing and not telling me!
Guess what, women CAN push while numb, they do it at other
hospitals all the time.) Then years later a Kaiser surgeon
created a new problem because she was not a rectal
specialist, though I asked for one from the start but didn't
know I should have demanded. Can you tell I have a tiny bit
of residual Kaiser anger?
In addition to Lizanne, who I found when Kaiser wouldn't
deal with me except to tell me to live with a dysfunctional
rectum, get over it and stop searching the internet, I
eventually found Zelda, PT at Richmond Kaiser. Lizanne
actually found her for me. They were both crucial to my
healing. Zelda focused more on overall muscle tone, had
great bio-feedback equipment, easy & effective homework
exercises, an incredible personality, it was fun to see her!
After 9-12 months with these 2 gals I was 95% normal and the
damage before was bad. Different from yours but bad. Another
great resource I learned about was USF (UCSF?)'s top notch
colo-rectal dept.
I think it's better to work naturally with the body's own
healing and alternative therapies before considering
surgery. If you do need surgery, demand a rectal specialist
off the bat. Pain after rectal surgery is really bad but
only for a few minutes a day for a few weeks.
- No need to live with it, good luck!
Aug 2010
I'm looking for a doctor to help with postpartum hemorrhoids. I have tried
steroid creams, witch hazel, sitz baths, and benzocaine creams which
have not helped and need a more permanent solution. I'm also interested
in other things people have tried that have worked for them. Thanks!
Suffering for too long
I had a similar issue with postpartum hemorrhoids (which actually were an issue
before i got pregnant, but were worse postpartum) and went to see the
wonderful acupuncturists at san francisco community acupuncture (sliding
scale, $20-$40 a session). They gave me some herbs that have worked wonders
(and they don't even taste that bad!). I had some other issues as well, which
they id'ed as a ''blood deficiency'' so the herbs were a blend to address both
problems.
I'm quite sure any good acupuncturist who works with Chinese herbs would be
able to help you as well. I was amazed at how quickly the hemorrhoids
subsided. Good luck.
mich
OMG! Nobody seems to take this pain seriously! I am finally seeing Dr. David
Bitar, a rectum specialist, in Berkeley (at 2900 Telegraph, just north of Ashby,
510/845-4638). He said that the anus has the second most number of nerves in
the body (the first is the eyes), so no wonder it hurts to have hemorrhoids. I'm
dealing with an anal tear (had a very painful shot in the rectum which helped
immensely and am now using nitroglycerin cream!!!), and he will remove my
hemorrhoids once I've healed (so I can't speak to that treatment right now). His
offices are old school--real chairs in the waiting room, white enamel cabinets,
old machines with mysterious tubes, and burlap wall paper--he's been there a
while. I liked his sense of humor and felt comfortable speaking with him even
though he's a guy. I really feel like he gets it and that he can help. Another
woman from the BPN has recommended him as well--going in the day after
childbirth!
New Meaning to Pain in the A$$
There are quick and painless therapies available, you just
have to ask for them and/or find a doctor that offers them.
One is called Ultroid which uses a current to zap the
hemorroid at the base (it has to be internal and not
external, if it's external you may be out of luck). The
other is laser based, it's even quicker (a couple of
seconds) and similarly painless (though not without
discomfort) and safe. I think it's called IRC. Both of these
can be done in a Dr's office in a matter of minutes. Get a
referral to a gastroenterologist if your primary doc doesn't
do these therapies - though there's no reason why they
couldn't, doctors just need to start screening for
hemorrhoids and get on-board with the technology.
Not A Doctor
Oct 2009
hello wise parents out there in the interwebs...
I've had these delightful extrusions since oh, about the middle
of my pregnancy and my son is now six months old. While I was
pregnant I used cabbage leaves and they seemed to slow the
swelling and reduced the general mass of the hemorrhoids. Since
I've had the baby though, cabbage has been a little more
difficult to use... as I'm up and about a LOT more.
Anyway, please offer sage advice about dealing with this. I don't
want to hear 'there's nothing you can do about it'. I would
consider surgery as a very, very last option. If you have
natural, non-invasive remedies to offer... please write.
Thanks for your time!
Piles in my pants... heh heh heh
Poor Babeeee....I'm sure you have MUCH support here.
I also got them during both pregnancies and they show up now
and then when I'm not drinking enough water and eating enough
fiber...So, that's first....Drink LOTS of water, every day and
be sure you are eating plenty of fiber ie:fresh fruits and
vegies mostly, some high fiber grains, if you eat grains.
Apples have tonz of fiber, as do berries, etc.
In the shower, massage them back in. I know it sounds yucky,
but you're in the shower...Also, kegals. You want to strengthen
the pelvic floor muscles.
I have used Prep H in the past...it helps,
And I think I used a homeopathic hemmorhoid cream...I don't
remember if it helped or not.
Lie down at some point during the day and put your legs up on a
wall, or chair.
Above all, avoid straining...while pooping, picking up kids,
etc.
When you pick up kids, squat down, pull your abs and pelvic
floor in to support your lower back and bottom.
Good luck. You probably don't need surgery unless they get so
bad with no change even doing all the right things...so don't
worry, but get busy.
been there...there's a way out.
Chinese medicine has an herbal remedy called Fargelin (or
Phargelin) that helps with piles. Some people also benefit from
homeopathic remedies like witchazel. Dr. Shen's in Berkeley has
the chinese remedy. Any healthfood store that carries
homeopathic (i.e. Boiron remedies) ought to have the witchhazel.
Good luck.
experienced
I used a blend of essential oils to heal my hemmoroids
postpartum. Plenty of water and fiber, and for the two weeks
even a daily stool softener helped everything move gently and
the essential oils healed the inflammation and bleeding. You
can make your own or if you email me I can make you some. 5
drops each rose geranium, myrrh, cypress, and peppermint
essential oils (therapeutic grade from your health food store,
not fragrance oils). Mix in base of 2-3 tablespoons of
vegetable or nut oil. Apply directly to affected area 3-4 times
per day or as needed, especially after a bm.
Hope this helps.
Nicole
Try witch hazel-soaked gauze pads several times a day after the
hottest bath you can take, as burning hot as possible. If you
do a sitz bath I suppose you could just pour a ton of the w.h.
in. Personally, I had inside ones & I inserted the stuff and it
shrunk them. (I know I know, Drs say don't insert things but
I'm here to tell you if that's the origin of the problem that's
where you put the stuff.) Besides that, Anusol HC cream and
suppositories - this is Rx - 2-3 times a day alternating with
the witch hazel. Best to wait 1-2 hours after bm to insert
anything because it'll be irritated.
I know you said natural but heat and those 2 things are the
best. If the origin is inside the rectum, hot water should
cover abdomen for best results. Of course, good veg/fruit/high
fiber/tons of water diet, sleep, and don't lift stuff if you
can help it. As for substances, those 2 are IT.
Good luck!
Anon
I've had moderate to extremely bad hemorroids off an on since
before pregnancy (pregnancy certainly made them MUCH worse) and
have tried a lot of different things over the years. I do
think witch hazel is a good preventative measure, to keep the
area clean and constricted. What is working well for me on
those thankfully more rare occassions that I still get them is
to apply a natural remedy called ''Hemorroids No More'' made by a
company called Forces of Nature, let it absorb, and then follow
up with a good, thick zinc oxide diaper cream (my favorite is
Waleda). I do this right before bed, and right after I shower
in the morning. I've always been amazed at how quickly diaper
cream heals raw little bottoms, and it works well in this
context - the zinc oxide really seems to protect and sooth the
area. Good luck!!
sitting pretty
I had hemorrhoids before I was pregnant, while I was pregnant and
still get them two and half years out. I've noticed that they
are worse when I eat tomatoes so often just cutting back on that
fixes things right up. When they've been particularly unbearable
though, my acupuncturist has performed a totally bizarre
procedure that literally makes the biggest hemorrhoids disappear
overnight. I don't know all the details (I don't totally
understand it. I just trust her and all is well.) but she cut a
very small area behind each of my knees, squeezed out some blood
and I think that was it. I know it sounds crazy but it was like
a miracle. Not something I would do for a little one but if I
have another giant walnut hanging down, I'd do it again in a
second. Good luck!
All Healed Up
Oct 2009
Here is my problem. After giving birth to my (now) one year
old, I have been having itchiness of my butt (the hole area
specifically). I have looked down there and don't see anything
out of the norm but also find it slightly painful occasionally
to have a BM and ocasionally have a small amount of blood. I
figure this is probably the result of a hemorrhoid inside but
have really not addressed the problem in any way. Has anyone
else experienced this? Should I start using Prep H? Or
something else?
Lovely isn't it!!! Been there and it sucks but it does eventually go away. The
occasional pain and blood is yes probably an internal hemorrhoid and I don't
think prep h will help try yoplait activia yogurt daily it's great and has helped
immensely with the painful poops. As far as the itching I found bathing more
often than usual accompanied with hydrocortisone cream on the affected
outside area takes the itching away. Good luck and remember this is just
another one of those wonderful things that comes with the package.
Formerly Itchy
I had a similar experience after the birth of my second child.
The itchiness is often related to a mild yeast infection which
can result from the hormone changes during pregnancy and
postpartum. Simply start taking some probiotics (healthy
bacteria for the digestive system). You can find them in a
special refrigerated section at the health food store). I like
the one called Jarrodophilus. You can take as many as 2 with
each meal. As for the painful BM and blood - yes, hemmoroids.
Make sure to get plenty of fiber and water and even try a stool
softener for a few weeks. I also made my own tushie cream
instead of Prep-H. 5 drops each essential oils of cypress, rose
geranium, peppermint in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Apply
to ''the hole'' as needed. Really helps soothe the area and will
help heal the hemmoroid. You can get the essential oils at a
good healthfood store or herb store.
Hope this helps!
Happy Tushie Now
You can go see a proctologist who specializes in these things. It does sound like
hemorroids. But, since you are seeing blood, then you should go to the doctor and they
will either give you a shot to make the hemorroid go down, or prescribe a topical
ointment.
Anon
Well, I had the same issue. It is most likley hemorrhoids. They
start out with a bad itch and blood and the it can become sore
or you can feel like you have a small cut.It gets worse. For me
it hurt to use the bathroom any kind of way for some time. My
suggestion is drink lots of water and any topical ointment would
work Prep H ointment is what I liked. I also tried a homeopathic
remedy you can get that at any Pharmaca or Berkeley Bowl. I'd
adress this asap because it can get really bad.You can bleed
more and be so uncomfortable. Also, try more veggies.Spinach and
greens instead of potatoes, anythin that can constipate you.
Goodluck!
N's Mommy
sounds like hemorrhoids. I had a lot of problems with this for
months after the birth. Talk to your doctor about getting a
prescription strength cream, prep H is not strong enough. My
doctor said you really have to use a lot of the cream regularly
until the problem is under control. You need to get the
hemorrhoids tissue back down to normal levels, otherwise there
is always this low level of inflammation that flares up at the
slightest thing. Also, you need to make sure you are eating
enough high fiber foods and drink LOTS of water. If you just eat
the high fiber foods and don't drink enough water, you just make
the consipation, and hence the hemorrhoids worse.
Anon
Please go see a proctologist or your family doctor for proper
diagnosis and treatment of your situation. It sounds like anal
fissures, but you should go see your doctor, especially with
the blood symptom. If it is fissures, what worked for me was
avoiding cheese and cutting down on dairy in general, taking an
over the counter stool softener for a couple weeks, increasing
fiber intake, avoiding stoned fruit and bananas but eating
prunes, watermellon, and seeded fruit like apples. If stool
size is too large or too hard, it can tear the skin. Doing the
above helps soften stools so the skin tissue isn't aggrevated
and can have a chance to heal. But again, see a doctor for
treatment specific to your situation.
There is a topical perscription called Analpram which has a
higher strength of hydrocortisone than what you can get over
the counter. It helps with the discomfort and itching until
fissures heal. You may want to ask your doctor if this is an
option for you, in the event fissures is your problem.
A few months after my C-section and a subsequent 2nd surgury, I
mistakenly thought I had hemorrhoids and told this to one of
the OBGYNs in the practice that I USED to go to. Instead of
looking at the exterior skin first, she proceeded to do an
incredibly painful internal rectal exam. I was in tears! She
concluded it didn't appear to be hemorrhoids, but never
bothered to check for fissures. When I went to the
proctologist, he talked to me first to get full description of
my symptoms and ask me about my stool size. Then, after a
simple visual exam where he barely even touched me, he
diagnosed fissures--6 of them no less! He also explained that
surgery can increase stool size, which was the cause in my case.
sounds familiar
Sounds like hemorrhoids. I got a referral from my HMO to a
specialist after one thrombosed, and they recommended stapling,
which is major surgery with general anesthesia and a downtime of
a few weeks. I tried all the dietary solutions (extra fiber, lots
of liquids), but they continued to irritate me and eventually
another thrombosed, which is incredibly painful. I then found a
place called the Center for Colorectal Health in San Francisco
that does a banding procedure that is relatively pain free, and
my problem was solved. The Dr. there is Dr. Carolyn Million, and
they fit me in the next day. All she does is colorectal work, and
she's great.
a former sufferer
April 2009
I'm pregnant and at only 26 weeks, I have already developed
prolapsed hemorrhoids that are bleeding. With my previous
pregnancy I developed hemorrhoids right before birth and they
went away right after. This time I'm wondering how I can live
with this pain for months. Based on my past experience, it
seems to me this is something doctors are sort of unsympathetic
about -- have others had that experience? I can't tell if it
is because there's nothing they can do, or it's beneath them,
or what. If you developed hemorrhoids early in pregnancy, what
did you do? Did you just have to tough it out? Was your
doctor sympathetic? I'm doing baths and using suppositories,
and eating right, but none of it has any effect.
anon, please
I've struggled with hemorrhoids off and on - especially in
pregnancy when I finally figured out that drinking or eating
ginger brought them on. My mother confided in me that ginger does
the same for her too. When not pregnant - alcohol also has a
similar effect although not as immediate as ginger. Maybe there
is something healthy in your diet that is causing it?
anon
I had this happen with my 2nd pregnancy as well. I guess it's
just how the baby sits lower, things are more stretched out/etc.
I had them with pregnancy #1 as well (at the end) and they
didn't bother me, and went away like yours.
Anyway, with #2, the hemorrhoids developed at 20 weeks and it was
horrible. I was eating well - I wasn't constipated, but they
just came anyway. I got a thrombosed one (basically a blood
clot) and I effectively couldn't sit! My dr. was out of town
when this happened, so I went to a general practitioner, and they
were not sympathetic. Granted, it was a man, and he was like,
it's just life, it'll go away, take baths.
There is very little, medication-wise, to do. I ended up sitting
on a donut pillow (not a plastic one but a foam one) and using
some prescription analgesic that they gave me. But I ended up
with 3 of the thrombosed hemorroids (about once every other month
from month 5) and it was the only thing on my mind. Made it hard
to work, walk, or just sit and watch TV at night.
In fact, the reason my OB agreed to induce me at 40 weeks was
because I was so miserable, and it was the hemorroids, above and
beyond, that drove me to that point.
The good thing is that literally, within a week of given birth,
things were 95% better. I am still dealing with the after
effects 5 months later, but it's quite tolerable.
Good luck - and I can definitely commiserate!
Laura
I've had serious pain issues with this kind of thing. One thing
that really helped a lot is - 2 things - witch hazel, and
Anusol HC gel or cream (was otc but now Rx). Inside and
outside. My problem originated inside. Nobody tells you how to
deal with that, but I found small (''10 cc'' really skinny)
syringes (minus needles of course) and injected both those
substances alternately throughout the day. Lubricate the tip of
the syringe w/ the gel. W.hazel causes a not fun contracting
sensation at first, then it passes. My strong opinion is the
w.hazel shrinks things. Do it first, then 15-20 min later or so
the suppositories with the gel. Or just 2-3 syringes full of
gel, I found the suppositories hurt with prolapsed h's. The
idea is constant soothing lubrication in there. Make a
gentle ''pushing out'' motion and ironically that allows the
syringe to go in.
Wait 1-2 hours after a bowel mvmt. to do anything internal,
because it can be sore then and the area cleans itself in a
couple of hours too. Externally, you can soak gauze in w.hazel
and put that over the h's a couple of times a day or night. (It
can leak so allow for that.) Alternate with Anusol if you want
externally too.
Of course, do all the dietary stuff, tons of water, fiber,
fruit, vegs, no red meat or white flour, you probably know all
that. Focus on the routine of doing these healing things, not
on immediate relief - that seemed to help my mood. It just goes
away when it's ready, but this stuff will give you relief.
Most docs say not to apply anything internally and very few of
them know about or would even consider witch hazel, but I'm
here to tell you, it doesn't hurt you and it works. One rectal
surgeon I happened upon who wasn't even my doc promoted
w.hazel. Try to get syringes from the doc, nurses, or a pet
supply store or vet. They use these little ones to feed baby
kittens.
- unfortunately, been there
I saw Dr Roark, who has several decades of experience, for anal
itching/bleeding.
Thorough and does not make you feel that the problem is in any way unworthy of
attention. 510 8482100 I drink ALOE VERA juice, which helps - I don't know if
you can
do this while pregnant.
anon
One other 'remedy' that I haven't seen anyone talk about is the miracle that is
psyllium
(sold as Metamucil). I suffered after my second child was almost a year old
w/lingering
hemorrhoids and finally saw a specialist. I had always dismissed soluble fiber because
I already eat so much fiber in my regular diet and know that constipation is not the
cause. Here's the deal w/psyllium, it's a packaging agent and makes for very very
clean elimination. I don't have to tell you how irritating it is to wipe the area. In
fact,
don't do that either. Use a peri-bottle when they're really bad. And drink the
psyllium
rather than taking it in capsule. Solved my problems.
Good luck
Jan 2009
two weeks after i gave birth i got hemmoroid. it really hurted.
since than i have been very careful about constipation. but
now, 3 weeks later i think i am getting hemmoriods again even
though i dont have constipation. my mom told me that this is
with life and will keep going on and off. i am really worried
because it really hurts that i cant even walk. i live alone with
my 2 month old baby and my husband. i dont know how i am going
to do all chores.
Worried
It's possible it's something besides hemorrhoids--in the months
following my son's birth I thought I had hemorrhoids, but it was
actually anal fissures from the 3rd degree laceration I had. It
hurt so horribly, like almost worse than giving birth. I do not
think hemorrhoids hurt that much, but I don't know since I
haven't had them. It might be worth going to the doctor and
having yourself checked out, because it might be something that
you could get relief from! Good luck, I know how awful it can be.
ouch, been there
I have three children, and with the birth of my first child I
didn't really know what hemorrhoids were, so I suffered for
weeks and weeks before my mid-wife clued me into what the
problem was. I had them cauterized, and all was well. After
the births of my other two children, I practically stopped off
at the proctologist on the way home from the hospital. I
really was in the waiting room with a one day old baby. Get
them taken care off ASAP. As a new mom you really need to take
care of yourself. I saw Dr. Bitar, 2900 Telegraph Ave.; phone
(510) 845 4638. He doesn't have the best bedside manner, but
he gets the job done.
happy healthy mama
I am so sorry for your pain, I have three kids so I understand.
You should definitly talk to your doctor. I thought I had
hemorroids and came to find out I had an anal fissure (small
tear in the anaus). It was sooo painful and required a different
kind of treatment then hemorroids. So, go see you doctor and get
a proper diagnosis so you can feel better soon. Good luck!
anon
I've also had hemorrhoids... mine started mid-pregnancy though
and from what I understand, they are likely to worsen during the
birth. Essentially, it is a vein that has collapsed due to pelvic
pressure and therefore started to 'pile' up outside the rectum.
There is no 'cure' for it and although it can become smaller and
'go away', I may always be prone to it.
I have found that Tuck's Medicated Wipes help, and I am told that
Preparation H would as well. Natural remedies that I recently
heard about but haven't tried yet are:
fresh organic cabbage- clean and then apply to affected area for
short periods of time
infusion with dandelion- soak in this
Good luck!
I feel your pain
Ouch I totally feel for you. A few weeks after birth I had the same
thing. I tried the
creams, sitz baths, stool softeners etc. Then I went to a general
surgeon who
totally recommended surgery forthwith! Then I went to a rectal
specialist. He
diagnosed it as a fissure. (Which can happen from hard labor.) Its
often
misdiagnosed as ''piles'' or hemorrhoids, but is a tear that goes deep.
He gave me a
nitrite based cream which fully relaxed the muscles and allowed the
fissure to heal.
Also he prescribed stool softeners and fiber capsules. A month or two
later I was
MUCH better. 5 years later I have never had a reoccurrence, but I do
take fiber
capsules every day. Bottom (no pun intended) line - see an anal
specialist!! I am so
glad I did.
anon
I had hemroids after the birth of my first child. First, if they are so
painful you
can't walk, you need to see a medical person pronto. I have found taking
1
teaspoon of a metamucil type product (look in your nearest drug store &
proprietary brands are just fine) at breakfast & at dinner does the
trick. Have
done this for years w/excellent results.
Happy Grandmother
Oct 2008
Sorry to introduce this icky topic, but I'm seeking advice
about how to treat hemorrhoids. Physicians I've talked to are
very reluctant to prescribe actual ''removal'' -- saying that
surgery and other options are extremely painful, so it's better
to try and manage the condition by diet, stool softeners, warm
baths, etc. That's okay as far as it goes, but I'm at the
point where this is a significant cosmetic concern, if you get
my drift. What advice is out there?
Anonymous
Unfortunately, I know something about this topic. I had pain so
severe (there were a couple of different problems all at once)
that I had to have surgery. My brother had not much pain but a
situation like yours and (warning: stop here for the faint of
heart) continual blood he had to deal with. He too had surgery.
If either of those situations get too bad and don't respond to
conservative treatment, surgery can be a good option. (are
genetics involved?)
The important thing is to get a ano-rectal specialist. DO NOT
allow a general surgeon to attempt a hem-ectomy. If it's
Kaiser, go through all the hoops to get to the specialist and
be a complete b--ch about it. Mine was done by a general
surgeon because I had no idea. She just cut tissue out in
a ''plane'' - a large flat area, and you can't do that. It took
me a year of researching, paying out of pocket for different
therapies, my quality of life was altered - but a year to get
myself close enough to normal. (A guy in a Castro St. sex shop
had some of the most helpful info.)
My brother, on the other hand, had a specialist who knew
the ''bridge'' procedure - it goes by other names too but it
keeps the tissue doing what it needs to do. We all have 3 main
veins or whatever they are and it's best to have all 3 taken
out, which my brother's doc did.
Recovery is hell, I'll warn you, I learned what ''cold sweat''
really means. But only during the times you have to you-know-
what and it improves and after a couple of weeks it's
manageable and the pain and whatever else will be gone and
you're free. Just get a specialist who's done a thousand of
them, who can tell you all about the special procedure and draw
you a diagram. Good luck!
been there
Sorry I don't have much advice for you, but I have used Rhoid
Balm by Motherlove in the past for a small hemorrhoid and it was
very helpful for discomfort and healing. You can buy it at whole
foods.
anon
Do not have any kind of rectal surgery for this condition. My
mother had surgery and wishes she could take it all back. She is
much worse than she was just dealing with the hemorrhoids.
Advice- do not ever get constipated. Ice cubes, witch hazel, 400
units of Vitamin E every day as long as it doesn't constipate
you, lie on your side and stomach as much as possible,
unsweetened cranberry juice and pro-biotics for itching and
burning. Cut out dairy, sugar, corn, nuts, caffeine, chocolate
and see how that helps. Don't sit in a tub too long or it will
make it worse. Short, cool baths if you must and NO SOAP!
anonymous
Mayber you're past this, but I always find that generous
amounts of witch hazel are very helpful in making hemorrhoids
disappear. (for cleaning, for a compress locally applied as
long as is practical) It's an astringent; I also put it in a
spray bottle and use it as toner for my face. Good luck.
Bonnie
Surgery does not sound fun, and many people are not happy with
the results. Even if you have surgery, the problem will recur if
you do not take preventive steps.
The Public Citizen Health Research Group advises against the use
of Preparation H, too. Instead, use petroleum jelly or zinc
oxide as a protective coating to prevent further irritation and
to speed healing. In addition, add lots more insoluble fiber
(whole wheat, buckwheat, bran, etc.) to your diet and never, ever
strain while on the toilet.
No more white bread
Hello
Hemoroids can be treated with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs.
If you have any questions or want a referral please contact me.
Good Luck!
jennifer
I'm an acupuncturist and have helped many with hemorrhoids
successfully, bleeding. Acupuncture is a gentler and less
painful procedure. It truly eradicates the source of the problem.
There really isn't that much that western medicine can do apart
from surgery but Traditional Chinese Medicine can accomplish a
lot with acupuncture and herbal medicine. B.
Try using collinsonia or the herbal tincture ''Healthy Veins.''
It is a combination of Butcher's Broom and other things,and you
can get it at any natural foods store. Personally, I find it a
miracle cure. Relieves the swelling and discomfort 100% within
24-48 hours.
Good luck
Hemorrhoids are partly due to heredity, so if they run in your
family, it's extra-important to get lots of exercise, in addition
to a high-fiber diet with lots of whole grains, high-fiber
vegetables, legumes, and high-fiber fruits.
There are also specific exercises to prevent or reverse
hemorrhoids. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of the
pelvic floor. A similar exercise is to do the OPPOSITE of what
you do to make the hemorrhoids worse, i.e., push down slightly,
as if you are going to the bathroom, and then pull back as much
as you can for several minutes. Repeat several times during the
day, especially when you are sitting.
Family History Buff
Hemorrhoids are definitely genetic! My mother, my brother and myself have all
confided in each other that eating ginger or drinking gingerale, and drinking beer -
maybe alcohol in general - bring on flare ups for all three of us. As long as I'm mindful
of those foods, I don't have any problems. When I do, I've found homeopathic products
to be of some relief.
selective eater now
Sept 2007
After putting it off for several years, I'm finally ready to deal with the
external hemorrhoids that I developed during childbirth, and am looking for a
competent surgeon to deal with this issue. Surprisingly there is only one, very
old, recommendation on the website, so I am looking for anyone that has had fairly
recent experience with this process. I have heard both that it can be
excrutiatingly painful and that it is no big deal, so would love some real-life
testimonials. Thanks!
anon
I highly recommend the office of Dr. Lawrence Yee at CPMC in San Francisco 415
923-3020. Don't think twice about the drive, it's worth it.
Dr. Yee and his staff are very pleasant, make you feel at ease, and are very
competent. I was very embarassed to go in, and after saying so, was very quickly
comforted (and releived...)
I suggest having a ride, since coming back might be a bit painful (the anesthesia
can wear off while you're in traffic).
Actually, this is how much I recommend Dr. Yee: if you need a ride from Berkeley,
I'll do it ...and I have a six month old!
Good luck.
s
May 2006
Any advice or sucessful treatments for OUTRAGEOUS hemorrhoids
that started from a pregnancy 3 years ago? I visited Dr.
Bitar (Telegraph, Berkeley) and was told that after I had put
with this problem for awhile longer I would come back to him
and want to have them cut out, in office with only a local.
Change in diet was also recommended, but is not practical for
me. Do you have a recommendation for another Proctologist?
anon
I suffered for about 8 years with hemorrhoids following the birth of my son. I tried
everything to postpone surgery but last year I did undergo surgery. The surgeon was
Dr. Ajay Upadhay in Oakland (510) 465-5523. He was very kind and competant. I had
surgery under general anesthesia. I had a terrible side effect while in my first week
of recovery. Due to the constipating effects of codine, I became impacted and had to
return to the hospital for another surgery to unplug me. It was horrible and I had to
stay in the hospital for 5 days until my body could pass solids. Apparently, the
doctor had this happen under his care only one other time but let me tell you, it was
a living hell. I do recommend using a sitz bath to soak your sore bottom and to use
it to relax so that you can deficate more easily. That was a god's send really.
Slowly I recovered and now a year later I'm glad it's over. I wish you much luck in
your decision and make sure you have lots of child care and support if you choose
surgery.
Glad it's Behind Me
I speak from experience- diet is key when it comes to hemmorhoids! Can't you manage it
somehow? Mine never got to what I'd call outrageous, but the pain and itching was
persistent and way beyond a drag. When I gave in and followed the basic diet
guidelines- not perfectly but pretty good- they shrunk down and haven't hurt or itched
or bled in a long time.
Once you have one you have it unless you do have it cut out, but many can be coddled
into submission. If you have the genetic tendency to them you can get new ones if you
don't take care of yourself. I guess you already know about warm (not hot) sitz-baths
as often as possible, twice a day for sure when they're acting up. You can fold a
small towel and put it under your butt cheeks in the tub if you're too sore to sit on
the hard surface.
Also learning to relax your anal sphincters can help a lot. You're probably too sore
right now to exercise them (simple tightening and releasing), but just regularly
paying attention to the tension you're holding there and learning to let it go bit by
bit will help a lot.
anon
I don't know whether they were outrageous, but my hemorrhoids got to be highly
un-ignorable a while back. I was succesfully treated by Dr. Jim Otis, a Chiropractic
Neurologist, in Oakland near Summit Hospital, who is very knowledgeable on using
nutritional supplements. I believe it was B5 that was the winner for me, after about
two weeks, which at the time seemed way to long to be suffering, but in retrospect,
was perhaps as good as a cure is going to get. He might or might not propose the same
for you.... Here is his contact info: http://www.jimotisdc.com/ Best wishes,
anon
I had pretty good luck with acupuncture for hemoroids. I had been in terrible
discomfort, and was seeing an acupuncturist for another issue, mentioned the
hemoroids, and in 1 treatment they shrunk incredibly. With the next treatment they
were gone! I saw Elizabeth Padron-Vos on Dwight Way in Berkeley
N
April 2004
I was wondering if anyone has had hemorrhoid surgery performed
by Dr. Arthur Stanten, M.D. (Sr., not Jr.) at Summit and whether
or not you would recommend him. My ob/gyn highly recommended Dr.
Bitar, but my health insurance will not cover him. I don't know
much about Dr. Stanten and would love to hear from anyone who
has been his patient.
Also, how was the recovery? When I met with Dr. Stanten he said
I would be put under general anethesia for this outpatient
procedure. I have an active toddler and am wondering how long I
might be out of it or off my feet. Thanks.
extremely nervous about surgery
I saw Dr. Bitar last December and at the time his office was
working on changing their health insurance affiliation. Though
my health insurance (HealthNet) did not yet cover Dr. Bitar, he
was strongly recommended by my OBGyn and I saw him anyway. He's
a great doctor and definitely didn't overcharge. Good luck!
Shirley
May 2002
Several months after my second child was born, I still have
hemorrhoids from the pregnancy. I do everything recommended by
the doctors (including drinking lots of water, eating fiber,
exercising,and the various medications) and constipation is not
a problem. I'm frustrated and on the verge of considering the
more extreme solutions such as surgery. Before I do so, I
wonder if anyone has tried alternative medicine for this
problem. I've had acupuncture, but it didn't seem to help.
You didn't mention how long it's been since you delivered your baby. I
had terrible hemmoroids with my first child and I'm happy to say that
I didn't have any with my second. It took ages for them to finally go
away. I adapted my diet as you did. Then, ever time one popped out, I
pushed it back in. I used a drop of vitamin e oil, though I think you
could probably use nearly anything slippery. I also, and still
continue to cleanse with wet toilet paper instead of dry. It's much
more comfortable, effective, and cost conscience than adult
wipes. There's also no extra chemicals. Then the other thing I did, is
begin an exercise program that includes toning my perineal
musculature. That has really helped then not come back. Also, less
sitting and more movement breaks. I hope this helps.
Good luck.
Dori
Here's what helped my hemorrhoids, which I never had before I
became pregnant:
1. Nelsons hemorrhoid cream
sometimes found in the homeopathic section of a natural grocery
or vitamin store
2. kegel exercises
3. washing the anus with soap and water after every bowel
movement (unless I was in a public, cubicled bathroom!)
Hope this helps,
happy and hemorrhoidless
Regarding your diagnosis of hemorrhoids (sp?): Please make sure
that this diagnosis was correct. I personally suffered terribly
for over a year with what repeatedly was diagnosed as
hemorrhoids. Because of my complaining, I was ultimately sent
to a proctologist who made a correct diagnosis of ''anal fissure''
which is an actual tear in the anal tissue. Mine had gone so
long that it had become infected. These fissures can mostly be
cauterized and they will heal, but I had to have surgery on
mine. If you are having bleeding, go and make sure that you
haven't got a fissure. Best of luck to you. Also, the surgery
was the best thing I could've done; no more pain or problems.
Puerta
[Editor] see Anal Fissure
My sympathies to you about your hemorrhoids. I personally found an
osteopathic session helped me get rid of my one
hemorrhoid. It took one session. A good place to try is the office of
Catherine Henderson whose replacement, Marguerite, is
also an MD. They are located on Solano at Ensenada. I had this a year ago
and have never seen it again.
I did a small 3 month study for my nutrition education during which time a
participant (57 y.o.) was totally free of his long-
term hemorrhoids by using a Standard Process product called Cataplex ACP
(you can find this company in Emeryville and buy
retail from them, I think). It contains whole food, not synthetics, with
buckwheat being the the particular ingredient that
worked. Buckwheat is quite high in rutin, a bioflavonoid. Other
bioflavonoids to try include rosehips. I buy cut and sifted
rosehips in bulk from Whole Foods, grind some up in a grinder, and sprinkle
1 tbsp on applesauce. They work wonders for hot
flashes, BTW.
Good luck!
Nori
Nov 2002
I have been diagnosed with a fistula by my OB/GYN. He believes
that the fistula was caused by a hematoma which developed after I
delivered my 2nd baby, 5 months ago. I have an appointment soon
with a surgeon, Dr. David Bitar. I am wondering if anyone has
any knowledge of fistulae and/or knowledge of Dr. Bitar. I'm
particularly interested in information about recovery time
following surgery for a fistula.
Thank you.
anon.
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