Rinsing hemorrhoids with saline actually cured them—how does that work?
Oct 31, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, hemorrhoids are the most common anorectal disorder. Internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids can merge through the venous plexus at corresponding sites, forming mixed hemorrhoids. Locally washing hemorrhoids with saline solution can help relieve pain, exert antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, reduce swelling and itching, improve blood circulation, and alleviate discomfort after defecation, thus providing certain therapeutic benefits for hemorrhoids.
Under normal circumstances, hemorrhoids are the most common anorectal condition. Internal hemorrhoids fuse with external hemorrhoids through venous plexuses at corresponding sites, thus forming mixed hemorrhoids. Washing hemorrhoids with local saline solution can help relieve pain, exert antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, reduce swelling and itching, promote blood circulation, and alleviate post-defecation discomfort, thereby providing certain therapeutic benefits for hemorrhoids. Specific details are as follows:
1. Pain Relief
Warm water can soothe pain and discomfort, which is particularly important for patients with hemorrhoids. By dissolving salt in warm water, you gain dual benefits: the soothing effect of warm water and the anti-inflammatory properties of salt, both of which help reduce pain and swelling.
2. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Saline solution has inherent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dissolving salt in water helps reduce the risk of infection in the hemorrhoidal area and alleviates inflammation, thereby promoting healing—especially when hemorrhoids cause fissures or ulcers.
3. Reduction of Swelling and Itching
Washing hemorrhoids with saline helps reduce swelling and itching, which are common symptoms of hemorrhoids. Saline may help constrict blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the hemorrhoidal area, thus relieving these symptoms.
4. Promotion of Blood Circulation
Sitz baths with warm water and saline washing of hemorrhoids can enhance blood circulation, helping to reduce swelling and pain. Improved blood flow accelerates healing in the affected area and alleviates symptoms.
5. Alleviation of Post-Defecation Discomfort
Defecation may cause discomfort in the hemorrhoidal area, especially in cases of dry stools or constipation. Washing with saline after bowel movements can reduce this discomfort and help manage the condition more effectively.
It should be noted that saline washing of hemorrhoids is generally used to relieve symptoms rather than cure hemorrhoids fundamentally. For severe or chronic hemorrhoids, patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to prevent serious complications.
