Rectal Hemorrhoids

By: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, Ph.D, ND, DACBN
updated on 06/06/2006 at 01:24PM

The rectal area is not one that we usually associate with exceptional cleanliness. The colon, anus, and rectum are literally swimming with bacteria. And for all of the waste and fecal matter that pass by this area, we often leave the cleaning to a mere swipe with dry toilet paper. But anal care is important to prevent illness and infection. Rectal hemorrhoids care is critical when hemorrhoids are present. Not only is the chance of infection greater, but there is also an increase in irritation to the sensitive tissue when fecal debris is not cleaned properly.

Where Do Rectal Hemorrhoids Come From?

Rectal hemorrhoids are basically varicose veins of the rectal area. Normally, blood fills the tissue that surrounds the anus in order to control bowel movements. Excessive straining due to constipation or other factors causes the veins within the anal tissues to swell and stretch. When the anal tissues can no longer support these swollen veins, rectal hemorrhoids develop. Rectal hemorrhoids can be either inside the anal canal (interior hemorrhoids) or under the skin surrounding the anus (exterior hemorrhoids.) Although they can be quite annoying, they are actually rather common. Half of all Americans over fifty years of age have rectal hemorrhoids.

Rectal hemorrhoids are caused by activities that put too much pressure on the blood vessels in the rectal area. Straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, lack of exercise, and prolonged periods of sitting or standing are common causes of hemorrhoids. Pregnant women are especially prone to hemorrhoids due to the hormonal changes in the body, and the increase in blood volume that occurs as the baby develops. The symptoms of rectal hemorrhoids include bleeding, soreness, and itching.

Rectal Hemorrhoids Care

There are several lifestyle changes that can be made to help care for the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Avoiding constipation is essential, as straining during bowel movements will only further aggravate the sensitive tissue. Increasing fiber and water consumption helps to soften and bulk up stools, making them easier to pass. Exercise is also important as it stimulates the digestive muscles and moves waste through the system more quickly. And anal hygiene is extremely important in decreasing the level of irritation in the rectal area.

Rectal Hemorrhoids Care Tip 1: It is very important to keep hemorrhoids and the anal area clean. However, this may be easier said than done due to the pain, itching and discomfort of hemorrhoids. Try to remember that the goal is not to wipe the area clean but rather, to wash it clean. And although the hemorrhoids may itch terribly, it is vital that you do not scratch or rub the area. Scratching a rectal hemorrhoid may provide relief from the itching for a few seconds. But it will ensure further tissue inflammation and symptoms for days.
Rectal Hemorrhoids Care Tip 2: The key to washing rectum is to gently pat the anal area with a warm, wet cloth or a baby wipe. It is not necessary to apply harsh soaps directly to the area and it is especially unwise to use any soap that contains either perfume or dye. Avoid rubbing the anal area. It may be easiest to gently rinse the anus in the shower or with a bidet. Once the area is clean, gently pat the anal area with a soft, absorbent towel or cloth. Apply an ample amount of baby powder to keep the area dry and allow the inflamed tissues to move freely amongst one another.
Rectal Hemorrhoids Care Tip 3: The anal area can be especially sensitive to dyes and perfumes, especially when hemorrhoids are present. Avoid toilet paper that contains dyes and perfumes, and stay away from paper that is very rough to the touch. Premoistened towelettes (such as Tucks) may be useful for cleaning the anal area between bowel movements.

Hemorrhoid Care : External Hemorrhoids

External rectal hemorrhoids usually do not need any special treatment unless they burst and become thrombosed. A thrombosed or clotted hemorrhoid forms an extremely painful lump in the anal area, making anal hygiene very difficult. If the area is too sensitive to touch, try a warm sitz bath to help keep the hemorrhoids clean and to alleviate the pain and swelling in the area.

It is possible for the skin covering the lump to break open, causing rectal bleeding and intense pain. Be especially vigilant about anal hygiene if this happens, as the area is susceptible to infection. See your health care provider if the rectal bleeding does not appear to be linked to the rectal hemorrhoid, or if does not lessen within a few days.

The lump of a clotted hemorrhoid will generally recede within a week. But, after the clot from a thrombosed hemorrhoid recedes or is removed, the skin covering the rectal hemorrhoids may remain stretched out of shape, forming a skin tag. Skin tags can also become swollen and tender and it may be particularly difficult to clean around them. Your health care professional may remove the skin tag if problems arise with skin irritation, itching and burning.