Patient discussions

Moist, gentle cleaning following a bowel movement is advised to minimize anal irritation.

Advise patients to avoid excessive straining at stool and to avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.[1][13]​​[14]

Constipation can be a causative factor in hemorrhoid formation, which can be avoided by adding fiber and fluids to the diet; consuming 25-30 g of fiber daily is recommended, either with high-fiber foods or with commercial fiber supplements.[1][12]​​[13]​​​[14]

Following rubber band ligation, advise patients to manage pain with simple analgesics (such as acetaminophen), to avoid constipation (low-dose laxatives or stool softeners are often prescribed), to eat a high fiber diet, and to keep themselves hydrated.

For the management of pain following surgical hemorrhoidectomy, advise patients to use regular simple analgesics, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and to use stool softeners daily to avoid constipation. Chemical sphincter relaxants (e.g., nitroglycerin) applied to the anus confer some benefit. Metronidazole may also be prescribed.[39]

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