Aug 28 2010
How Should I Treat My Hemorrhoids If I Have Diabetes
If we talk about hemorrhoids, the number of available treatment is enormous. It can range from traditional to non surgical and surgical treatments. Herbal treatments have been also an important inclusion in the treatment of hemorrhoid symptoms. But Before treating your hemorrhoids, it is very important to consider other health condition that you have since some hemorrhoid medications can have an adverse reaction or contraindicated with other drugs.
People taking medications for diabetes are no exception. Many would ask how should I treat my hemorrhoids if I have diabetes? The first thing that you should do is consult your doctor of any additional medication that you will take especially if it is intended to treat hemorrhoids. There are some over the counter treatment for hemorrhoids that can aggravate or worsen your diabetes.
The main problem of patients with diabetes is on how to control their blood sugar. It should be maintained at the normal range because any changes above or below the normal level can lead to other health conditions or complications. Diabetic people with hemorrhoids should be very careful in treating both health conditions.
If the hemorrhoid is not yet severe, common treatment can be used such as sitz bath, ice packs, and following a healthy lifestyle. Since hemorrhoids are caused by weak veins, activities or treatments that will help strengthen the veins in the rectal area are good options.
Before resorting to synthetic medications, try to follow a healthy diet. You can increase your fiber intake by including bran, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Taking psyllium supplements is also an option. Avoid foods or drinks that will make the symptoms worst. Regular exercise will also help.
As mentioned earlier, doing sitz bath is a good alternative in treating people with diabetes and hemorrhoids. Sitz bath can be performed several times a day until you get relief from the symptoms such as swelling, itching and pain. You only need at least 15 minutes per session to achieve the benefits of sits bath therapy.
If these methods are not working for you, then you can take synthetic medications. Doctors warn that some OTC drugs contain vasoconstrictors like ephedrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine HCI which can affect the level of blood sugar in your body. One popular brand for example contains the steroid hydrocortisone which may cause an elevation of the blood sugar if absorbed in large quantities. Vasoconstrictors are also contraindicated on medications intended for heart diseases and depression.
You may also use protectants, astringents and topical anesthetics if you have diabetes. However, some of these products may contain ingredients which are contraindicated with your diabetes medications. Always read the label before using any of these hemorrhoid treatments. It is much better if you consult your doctor first before purchasing these products.
There is a popular herbal treatment for hemorrhoid that should not be used if you have diabetes. In a study, the horse chestnut seed extract have shown that it lowers the blood sugar. This herb should only be administered with the supervision of a health care professional. People with low blood sugar related conditions such as hypoglycemia should also avoid taking horse chestnut extract.
