Lifestyle modifications

According to DR ANDREA RAJNAKOVA of Andrea’s Digestive, Colon, Liver and Gallbladder Clinic, if haemorrhoids are small and don't create any problems, they don't need any medical treatment, as they can get better on their own. However, if symptoms like irritation or bleeding occur, topical cream and medication is necessary. And, if the haemorrhoids become bigger, they may require band ligation or surgery. She adds, “If they’re caused by constipation, having softer stools makes emptying the bowels easier and lessens the pressure that straining puts on haemorrhoids.

In these cases, the most important thing is adding more fibre and roughage to the diet – particularly green vegetables, fresh fruit, wholegrain cereals and bran,” says Dr Rajnakova. “Fluid intake should be increased to eight to ten glasses (around two litres) daily. Patients are also advised to avoid straining when passing a stool. Also, sitting in a shallow bath of lukewarm water for 15 minutes several times a day should reduce the pain.”