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Information about hemorrhiods

Hemorrhoids can be thought of as a type of varicose vein in a very inconvenient location…they can be a big nuisance and a real ‘pain in the backside’.

An itchy bottom is a common condition, The itch situated in or around the anal region, is often intense and may be accompanied by burning, painful sensations and a strong urge to scratch. Other causes include not wiping gently enough, fungal conditions, washing too much or too little, or an episode of diarrhea.

It is important to consult with your doctor if you are bleeding from the anal region or have had hemorrhoids for a prolonged time before starting any self-treatment.

Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum and are so common that they are experienced by three out of every four adults at times. When they are under the skin around the anus they are called external hemorrhoids and these are ones associated with:

  • Burning, itching or irritation around the anal region

  • Pain or discomfort

  • Swelling around the anus

  • Bleeding

Alternatively, if hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum, they are known as internal hemorrhoids. You usually can't see or feel them, and it is unusual for these to cause pain or discomfort. But straining or irritation when passing stools can sometimes cause:

  • Painless bleeding during bowel movements. You might notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet.

  • A hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening, resulting in pain and irritation.

Hemorrhoids have several causes, but often the cause is unknown.

When to see a doctor about hemorrhoids (piles)

If you have bleeding during bowel movements or you have had hemorrhoids, for a prolonged time, talk to your doctor about it. Often a timely intervention can have a great outcome if there is something else going on too… so don’t hesitate to take action.

Some of the possible causes of hemorrhoids

The veins around your anus tend to stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell. Hemorrhoids (piles) can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to:

  • Straining during bowel movements

  • Having chronic diarrhea or constipation

  • Sitting for long periods on the toilet

  • Being overweight

  • Pregnancy

  • Having a diet that is too low in fiber

  • Regular heavy lifting

Risk factors for hemorrhoids

As you get older, your risk of hemorrhoids increases. That's because the tissues that support the veins in your rectum and anus can weaken and stretch. This can also happen in pregnancy because the baby's weight puts pressure on the anal region. But the problem is also experienced by younger adults.

Treatment of hemorrhoids (piles) and itchy bottom

Most cases of hemorrhoids (piles) can be self-treated at home. More serious cases may require medication or surgical help. Hemorrhoids can reoccur after treatment; so we try to control the symptoms rather than cure them.

That’s where the new Asteroid Ointment™ from New Zealand comes in. Asteroid Ointment™ rapidly cools and soothes the anal area. The specially formulated barrier ointment also protects sensitive tissue, so you can feel more comfortable and confident as you get on with your day. Asteroid Ointment™ is steroid-free which means it is fine for daily use, unlike some preparations that contain steroid ingredients. Note: Preparations that contain steroids should not be used for more than 7 days. Ask your pharmacist for more advice.

For best results, Asteroid Ointment™ should be applied after a bowel movement, but it is safe to use in between times too, up to three times a day.


Self-treatment for hemorrhoids and itchy bottom

Home treatment is often all that is required to relieve annoying burning, swelling inflammation associated with external hemorrhoids and itchy bottoms. Taking measures to reduce the swelling and inflammation may give the sensation that a hemorrhoid (pile) has shrunk, allowing a greater level of comfort.


Self-care treatments include:

  • Over-the-counter hemorrhoid barrier ointments such as Asteroid Ointment™ or suppositories, and preparations containing witch hazel or a steroid. These products are available from your pharmacy.

  • CAUTION: Do not use a steroid-containing preparation for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor, as it can damage the skin.

  • Applying Asteroid Ointment™ to provide a soothing barrier after a bowel movement. (Do not apply if bleeding).

  • Soaking the area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes two or three times a day

  • Using stool softeners, which help stools to be passed more easily. Ask your pharmacist.

  • Keeping the area clean by bathing or showering daily – soap is not necessary, and the affected area can be gently dried.

  • Using moist towelettes (not containing perfume or alcohol) or damp toilet tissue rather than dry toilet paper, to help keep the area clean after passing a stool.

  • Gently applying ice packs or cold compresses on the affected area can relieve swelling

  • Taking oral pain medication, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help to relieve discomfort.


Prevention of hemorrhoids and itchy bottoms

One of the best ways to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft, so they pass easily. Tips to try:

  • Increase the fiber in your diet. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains soften the stool and increase its bulk, which helps avoid the straining that can cause hemorrhoids.

  • Drink plenty of fluids. Drink six to eight glasses of water or other liquids (not alcohol) each day to help keep stools soft.

  • Don't strain. Straining and holding your breath when trying to pass a stool creates greater pressure in the veins in the lower rectum.

  • Go as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait to pass a bowel movement and the urge goes away, the stool could dry out and be harder to pass.

  • Stay physically active to reduce pressure on veins, which can occur with long periods of standing or sitting. Exercise can also help you lose the excess weight that might be contributing to the problem

  • Avoid long periods of sitting particularly on the toilet, as it can increase the pressure on the problem area

How to Apply

  • Squeeze a small amount of Asteroid Ointment™ from the nozzle end of the tube onto a wipe or toilet tissue.

  • Apply gently to the problem region up to three times per day until the condition is controlled.

  • For best results apply after a bowel movement. 

  • Clean the tube nozzle with fresh toilet paper after use.


Additional Information

Asteroid tubes can be used for one year after opening.
Store Asteroid at room temperature 68°-77°F (20°-25°C)

See your doctor if symptoms persist.

Important: Do not apply Asteroid Ointment™ if hemorrhoids have been present for a prolonged time, or if there is bleeding or mucosal damage around the anal region without first consulting your doctor.

Product Information

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Menthol 0.35%.

Petrolatum 79.40%.

Zinc Oxide 5.00%.


PURPOSES

Anesthetic/Antipritic/Analgesic

Protectant

Astringent


USES

helps relieve burning, soreness, and itching by providing rapid-acting cooling barrier ointment for external hemorrhoids and minor anal irritation.


WARNINGS

For external use only.

Do not use if you are bleeding from the anal region.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have

·       heart disease

·       high blood pressure

·       thyroid disease

·       diabetes

·       difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are presently taking a prescription drug for high blood pressure or depression.

When using this product

·       Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage unless directed by the doctor.

·       Do not put it into the rectum by using your fingers or any mechanical device or applicator.

·       Possible side effects may include a brief cooling or heating sensation on application.


STOP USE AND ASK A DOCTOR IF

▪ If allergic to the ointment or any of its ingredients

▪ Bleeding occurs in the anal region

▪ Condition worsens or does not improve within 7 days.


If pregnant or breast-feeding

Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Keep out of reach of children

If swallowed, get medical help, or contact a Poison Control Center right away.


DIRECTIONS

Adults: Apply to the affected area up to 3 times daily. For best results, apply after a bowel movement.


INACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Cocoa Butter, Manuka Honey, Petrolatum.


QUESTIONS?

Email info@neoqura.com

 

Resources for Asteroid Hemorrhoid ointment

Resources

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