DiagnosisYour doctor might be able to see external hemorrhoids. Diagnosing internal hemorrhoids might include examination of your anal canal and rectum. Show
Your doctor might want to examine your entire colon using colonoscopy if:
TreatmentHome remediesYou can often relieve the mild pain, swelling and inflammation of hemorrhoids with home treatments.
With these treatments, hemorrhoid symptoms often go away within a week. See your doctor in a week if you don't get relief, or sooner if you have severe pain or bleeding. MedicationsIf your hemorrhoids produce only mild discomfort, your doctor might suggest over-the-counter creams, ointments, suppositories or pads. These products contain ingredients such as witch hazel, or hydrocortisone and lidocaine, which can temporarily relieve pain and itching. Don't use an over-the-counter steroid cream for more than a week unless directed by your doctor because it can thin your skin. External hemorrhoid thrombectomyIf a painful blood clot (thrombosis) has formed within an external hemorrhoid, your doctor can remove the hemorrhoid, which can provide prompt relief. This procedure, done under local anesthesia, is most effective if done within 72 hours of developing a clot. Minimally invasive proceduresFor persistent bleeding or painful hemorrhoids, your doctor might recommend one of the other minimally invasive procedures available. These treatments can be done in your doctor's office or other outpatient setting and don't usually require anesthesia.
Surgical proceduresOnly a small percentage of people with hemorrhoids require surgery. However, if other procedures haven't been successful or you have large hemorrhoids, your doctor might recommend one of the following:
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For hemorrhoids, some questions to ask your doctor include:
Don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctorYour doctor is likely to ask you questions, including:
What you can do in the meantimeBefore your appointment, take steps to soften your stools. Eat more high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and consider an over-the-counter fiber supplement, such as Metamucil or Citrucel. Drinking six to eight glasses of water a day also might help relieve your symptoms. Which direction would be most appropriate when washing the perineal area of a female patient?Cleanse the perineum, using front to back motions. Use a fresh washcloth for each pass from front to back. 6. Never wash back to front; this causes contamination and can cause infections.
What is complete bed bath?COMPLETE BED BATH VS PARTIAL BED BATH • Complete bed bath involves washing the entire body and partial bed bath involves washing the face, hand, leg, under arms, genitals/perineal area.
Which technique does the nurse use when providing perineal care for a male patient quizlet?The supine position is recommended for providing perineal care to male patients. Patients are placed in Fowler's position so the nurse can insert nasogastric tubes.
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