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How do You Stop Internal Hemorrhoids from Bleeding?

Henry Gaudet
Henry Gaudet

Bleeding from internal hemorrhoids can cause pain, distress and embarrassment, but the condition is surprisingly common. Occasionally, hemorrhoids are serious and require medical procedures, but often, the patient is able to stop internal hemorrhoids from bleeding with simple measures, such a change of diet. Over-the-counter medication might also provide relief and help to stop the bleeding.

Internal hemorrhoids form as bulbous cushions on the upper wall of the rectal canal. The cause of hemorrhoids is not fully understood, but constipation, sitting for prolonged periods and pregnancy are generally recognized as contributory factors. Symptoms include itching, pain and bleeding.

Increasing fiber in a person's diet may help prevent constipation.
Increasing fiber in a person's diet may help prevent constipation.

Constipation and the straining associated with passing hard stools is widely believed to cause hemorrhoids to swell and to aggravate existing hemorrhoids. As the stool passes, pressure and friction can rupture the hemorrhoid and cause pain and bleeding. By treating constipation, the patient can keep the internal hemorrhoids from bleeding.

Increasing dietary fiber can reduce constipation. Many people, especially in the developed world, do not eat enough fiber-rich foods, and including more fiber in the diet can have dramatic results. Dietary fiber supplements and stool softeners might also help to manage constipation.

Staying hydrated may help control constipation and manage hemorrhoids.
Staying hydrated may help control constipation and manage hemorrhoids.

Hydration is another important way for one to control constipation and manage hemorrhoids. When the body is dehydrated, it draws fluid from any available resources, including the intestine, and this results in a dense, hard stool. Water helps to soften bowel motions so that excessive straining is not required, meaning that any internal hemorrhoids are less likely to bleed.

Wet wipes for use with hemorrhoids.
Wet wipes for use with hemorrhoids.

Doughnut-shaped cushions are often used by patients who have hemorrhoids to minimize pressure on the area while seated. In the bathroom, experts recommend squatting over the toilet rather than sitting on the seat to prevent irritation and promote quick healing. The easiest way to do this is to lift the seat out of the way.

When hemorrhoid bleeding is present, disposable baby wipes can be gentler and clean more thoroughly than toilet paper. Many types of wipes are not intended to be flushed and can cause clogs, but flushable wipes are available, and these generally are preferred. After cleaning with a wet wipe, toilet paper might be needed to dry the area and prevent irritation. Over-the-counter ointments are available for the treatment of hemorrhoids and can be applied after cleaning.

An inflatable 'doughnut' can bring relief to someone with an internal hemorrhoid.
An inflatable 'doughnut' can bring relief to someone with an internal hemorrhoid.

In severe cases, medical attention might be required. Prescription medications might be sufficient, or the doctor might recommend more dramatic treatment for hemorrhoids and the associated bleeding. A variety of nonoperative and surgical procedures are available for extreme cases, but for most patients, gentler measures and home treatment can keep internal hemorrhoids from bleeding.

Discussion Comments

Telsyst

Using probiotics and fish oil supplements is also a very effective way of regulating digestion and alleviating constipation.

With the increasing popularity of probiotics, they are being included in more grocery products, like special yogurts. And fish oil, or omega three fatty acid, is abundant in fish and several other foods.

However, both of these supplements are also available in pill form and can be taken daily to help regulate stool hardening and constipation.

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    • Increasing fiber in a person's diet may help prevent constipation.
      By: Irochka
      Increasing fiber in a person's diet may help prevent constipation.
    • Staying hydrated may help control constipation and manage hemorrhoids.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Staying hydrated may help control constipation and manage hemorrhoids.
    • Wet wipes for use with hemorrhoids.
      By: Haris Rauf
      Wet wipes for use with hemorrhoids.
    • An inflatable 'doughnut' can bring relief to someone with an internal hemorrhoid.
      By: Kitch Bain
      An inflatable 'doughnut' can bring relief to someone with an internal hemorrhoid.
    • The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.
      By: Sylvie Bouchard
      The overuse of laxatives by a person with an eating disorder may cause hemorrhoids.