Oh, the indignity. Of all the parts of your body, it would have to hurt. You may find little comfort in the fact that you do not necessarily have a hemorrhoid. But you should know that your anal pain is more likely the result of a fissure and or an abscess. What is the difference? A hemorrhoid is essentially a varicose vein of the anus or rectum. A fissure, on the other hand, is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal. If that tear becomes infected, you could develop an abscess. Here are some tips that you can consider to adopt for pain-relief.
1. Check Your Medication
Counter Stools
Codeine and its derivatives can cause severe constipation. If you need a pain reliever,, ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory. Such products do not contain codeine.
2. Stay Well-Hydrated
A hard, dry stool means that you are not getting enough fluids. To soften it up drinking at least six 8-ounce glasses of water a day. I drink two glasses of water first thing in the morning, before breakfast, and I keep drinking water all day long.
3. Sit In A Sitz
A warm sitz bath can provide fast, temporary relief from anal pain. It is recommended to follow these instructions. Fill your bathtub with 6 to 8 inches of water that is between 850 and 950 F. Then sit in it and soak for about 10 minutes. Repeat at least times a day.
4. Wipe Wisely
Do not be too rough when you clean the anal area after a bowel movement. Aggressive hygiene can irritate the area even more. Try moistening the toilet tissue before you wipe, so it is not as abrasive.
5. Forage For Fiber
Increasing your fiber intake makes the stool soft and less irritating to the anus. It is recommended eating more fresh fruits and vegetables and less cheese and red meat.
6. Ease The Way With An Enema
Constipation not only causes fissures and abscesses but aggravates them once they occur. You can relieve constipation with an enema. Use about two glasses of warm water in a standard enema bag. It is easier on the anus than a laxative.
7. Lighten The Load
Use an over-the-counter stool softener containing docusate sodium such as Ex-Lax stool softener or Doxidan so that you have less anal pain when you move your bowels. If you have high blood pressure and are trying to limit your sodium intake, however, check with your doctor or pharmacist for a product that is right for you.