photo credit: revjim5000
Sitz bath is an effective and popular method of treating mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids. Sitz baths are usually used in treating skin irritations and infections by bathing in warm water. It can also be used to treat hemorrhoids by taking a sitz bath in the tub or over the toilet.
How it Works
Purchase the necessary container for your hemorrhoid sitz bath. It is a plastic tub that can fit into the toilet seat. Fill it with warm water and add salt or baking soda. Soak the rectal area in it for 15-20 minutes. In doing so, the swollen and infected areas are cleansed and the blood flow toward the pelvic region will also increase.
Advantages
Sitz baths are usually the first treatment a doctor will recommend after diagnosing the condition of having hemorrhoid. It offers many advantages including the immediate comfort and relief from the irritation and pain from hemorrhoids. Adding salt or baking soda to the warm water will relieved the infections in the anal area and it can even eliminate the infection completely by repeating the process continuously.
Another advantage from using sitz bath for hemorrhoid is that it is not expensive; although the price can also vary. There are complicated and expensive types of tubs wherein the drains are built in.
Combine With Other Methods
Generally, sitz baths are effective for treating hemorrhoids. However, there are also other methods that you can incorporate with it. For example, adopting a more balanced and fiber-rich diet is helpful in producing softer stools and regular bowel movements. The risk of developing hemorrhoids is lesser if you can avoid having constipation.
If you want to try sitz baths by yourself, buy a sitz bathtub and essential oils that you can mix with the water. If your skin is puffy and tender, juniper and lavender oils are helpful.
What if it Doesn’t Work?
However, after trying sitz bath you condition is still the same or even worsening, you might need to seek your doctor’s advice for another method of treatment. The hemorrhoids problem can sometimes be very persistent and you might need a more serious measure to treat it.
Keep in mind to check your condition regularly and contact you doctor and let them know of your situation. Medical professionals can help you determine the gravity of your situation.