Haemorrhoidal crisis: Tips for easing the pain

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Extract from the article: Haemorrhoidal attacks, an uncomfortable and painful condition, can disrupt daily life and cause significant discomfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms and means of relief can help you get through this difficult period and minimise recurrences. Wh

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Haemorrhoidal attacks, an uncomfortable and painful condition, can disrupt daily life and cause significant discomfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms and means of relief can help you get through this difficult period and minimise recurrences. What are the key aspects of a haemorrhoidal attack, including how long it lasts, how to soothe it quickly and recommended eating habits? Explanations from Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner at the Floréal clinic in Lomé.

Haemorrhoidal attacks occur when « the haemorrhoids, small blood vessels naturally present around the anus, become irritated, dilated and swollen.  Factors such as constipation, childbirth, genetic predisposition and prolonged use of the toilet can trigger this painful condition », explains Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner at the Floréal clinic in Lomé.

Typical symptoms of haemorrhoidal attacks include itching, pain, burning, bleeding and the presence of a painful ball around the anus.

Duration of a haemorrhoidal attack

According to Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner, « the duration of a haemorrhoidal attack varies from person to person and can depend on the severity of the symptoms and the measures taken to manage it. In general, a haemorrhoidal attack lasts from a few hours to a few days. Symptoms are often more intense at the start of the attack, then gradually subside ». However, Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina shows that in some cases haemorrhoidal attacks can last longer, recurring over an extended period.

Quick relief from haemorrhoidal attacks

To quickly relieve a haemorrhoidal attack and alleviate the symptoms, Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina, General Practitioner, recommends a few simple measures to follow: gently cleanse the affected area after each trip to the toilet using lukewarm water and mild soap; avoid rubbing or using rough toilet paper; creams and suppositories specially designed for haemorrhoids help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain; consult a health professional to choose the right product ; eating a diet rich in fibre from fruit, vegetables and wholegrain cereals can prevent constipation and make bowel movements easier; drinking enough water throughout the day to maintain adequate hydration and promote regular bowel movements; taking warm sitz baths for around 10 to 15 minutes to soothe the anal area and reduce discomfort.

A healthy diet

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing haemorrhoidal attacks. « To promote intestinal health and reduce the risk of haemorrhoidal attacks, opt for a diet rich in fibre, including fruit, vegetables, pulses and wholegrain cereals.Fibre promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation », says the GP.

« Drink enough water to maintain adequate hydration and facilitate the passage of stools, and avoid spicy meals, pepper, mustard and alcohol, which can aggravate symptoms. You should also keep your weight under control, as excess weight can put extra pressure on the anal region », he continues.

Consult a health professional

Although the measures mentioned above can help relieve the symptoms of a haemorrhoidal attack, « it is important to consult a healthcare professional if the symptoms do not improve after a few days », insists Dr Jean-Claude Bakpatina. In some cases, if the attacks recur, haemorrhoidal disease can be treated with a minor operation.

Raymond DZAKPATA