Q:

I got hemorrhoids in November and have been using Prep H and was prescribed by my general doc hydrocortisone. But they just wont go away permanently. I have changed my diet, I am taking benefiber. I really don't want to deal with them anymore, especially because it can impact my sex life. Anything that has to do with anal sex makes them instantly flare up. I am unsure if I have internal, but I definitely have external. I was told Nifedipine Lidocaine may make them go away or maybe Ditiazem. My parents want to avoid surgery, however I just want them to go away! Teenagers shouldn't get these.

 

A:

Hemorrhoids typically are caused by increased pressure to the veins in the rectum and anus causing them to swell and dilate, either from straining to have a bowel movement, or due to repetitive trauma such as bike riding and truck driving.  Prolonged sitting (an occupational hazard of students) is another risk factor.  You are correct that hemorrhoids can definitely flare up with any anal penetration or trauma so there is a good possibility that repetitive anal sex is causing your hemorrhoids not to completely heal.

There is no easy or 100% solution.  Medications aren't very effective, and surgery doesn't necessarily take care of this permanently.  Dietary fiber and increased fluids can help.  Choosing alternate sexual practices to avoid anal penetration may be necessary to actually help these resolve.

You are welcome to come to the health center so we can evaluate and give you our opinion, or we can refer you to a anal specialist for their opinion. 

~The Doc