Dear Pea-Boy,

Although it can be embarrassing, it is important for you and your peace of mind to get your anal bump diagnosed by a health care provider. For example, if it is a wart, you do not have to treat it with a hemorrhoid medication.

Hemorrhoids, enlarged veins in the lower rectum and anus, are common and not serious. Straining to have a bowel movement, constipation, a low-fiber diet, pregnancy, overuse of laxatives, and prolonged sitting can cause hemorrhoids. Once hemorrhoids develop, they tend to persist, although they may not cause major problems. Discomfort and swelling may come and go, usually lasting between three to five days.

Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• pain or itching near the growth in the anus
• bright red blood at the end of a bowel movement or on the toilet paper
• excessively moist anal area

If you have hemorrhoids, try the following to alleviate symptoms:

• Apply cold compresses of witch hazel for ten minutes, three to four times a day.
• Use an ice bag for ten minutes.
• Soak for ten to fifteen minutes in a warm bath a few times a day.
• Lay on your stomach or back instead of sitting on the old rear end.
• After a bowel movement, pat with toilet paper or gently wipe with witch hazel pads.
• Avoid scratching, which often increases discomfort.
• Stay away from anti-itch creams and lotions with "-caine" in their names -- the local anesthetic in these products can make the irritation worse.
• Don't use products that advertise the ability to shrink swollen hemorrhoids because they're not very effective.
• Have larger hemorrhoids surgically removed or medically treated.

Either way, add fiber (such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and peas) and lots of fluids (at least two quarts of water and juices) to your diet. Fiber adds bulk and moisture to the stool. If you want to increase fiber in your diet, do it slowly -- too much fiber at once can cause gas and stomach cramping. Exercising regularly may help because it improves abdominal muscle tone and makes bowel movements more regular and frequent. If you are significantly overweight, weight loss can also help.

Remember, don't strain too hard or sit on the toilet for too long in order to have a bowel movement. On the other hand, if you gotta go -- go! Holding the stool in the bowel tends to make it become hard and dry, and then it may be difficult to excrete.

Alice

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