What are the traditional Chinese medicine treatment methods for external hemorrhoids

Traditional Chinese medicine treatment methods for external hemorrhoids mainly include fumigation and washing with Chinese medicine, external application of ointment, acupuncture and moxibustion treatment, oral administration of Chinese medicine, acupoint catgut embedding, etc. External hemorrhoids usually present symptoms such as pain and bleeding during bowel movements, which may be related to factors such as prolonged sitting, improper diet, and damp heat accumulation. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment mainly alleviates symptoms by regulating qi and blood, clearing heat and removing dampness.

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Fumigation and Washing

Traditional Chinese medicine fumigation and washing is the process of boiling traditional Chinese medicine that has the effects of clearing heat, drying dampness, promoting blood circulation, and removing blood stasis, and then fumigating or washing the anus externally. Common medications include Sophora flavescens, Phellodendron amurense, Eucommia ulmoides, and Galla chinensis, which can alleviate local congestion and pain through fumigation and washing. Traditional Chinese medicine fumigation and washing can be repeated 1-2 times a day, and the water temperature should be tolerated by the skin. This method directly acts on the lesion, promotes blood circulation, and is beneficial for reducing hemorrhoids and swelling.

2. External application of ointment. This type of ointment often contains ingredients such as musk and borneol, which have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, astringent, and hemostatic effects. Before applying externally, clean the anus. When the hemorrhoids protrude, gently push them back before using the medication. External application of ointment is suitable for various stages of hemorrhoids and can quickly relieve local discomfort symptoms.

3. acupuncture and moxibustion Treatment

acupuncture and moxibustion regulates intestinal function and promotes the movement of qi and blood by stimulating Changqiang, Chengshan and other acupoints. The treatment adopts the technique of tonifying and relieving diarrhea, with needle retention for 20-30 minutes each time, and 10 times as one course of treatment. Acupuncture and moxibustion can improve local anal microcirculation, reduce varicose veins, and has a better effect on early hemorrhoids. Combined with moxibustion at acupoints such as Baihui and Qihai, it can enhance the body's immune system.

4. Oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine

Oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine mainly includes formulas such as Huaijiao Wan and Shilian Wan, containing ingredients such as Huaihua, Diyu, Huanglian, etc., which have the effects of cooling blood, stopping bleeding, clearing heat and dampness. According to different syndrome types, medication can be adjusted accordingly. For the damp heat type, use Zhitong Rushen Tang, while for the Qi stagnation and blood stasis type, use Taohong Siwu Tang. Oral medication should be taken continuously for 2-4 weeks to improve the foundation of hemorrhoids through overall regulation.

5. Acupoint embedding

Acupoint embedding is the implantation of catgut at acupoints such as Da Chang Yu and Ci Liao, which produces a sustained stimulating effect. This therapy is performed every 2 weeks, with 3 sessions per course, and can regulate autonomic nervous system function and improve anal venous return. After embedding the wire, there may be a local acid swelling sensation, which usually subsides on its own within 2-3 days. This method has a good preventive effect on recurrent hemorrhoids.

Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment for external hemorrhoids requires differentiation and treatment. In the acute phase, clearing heat and removing dampness is the main approach, while in the chronic phase, emphasis is placed on tonifying qi and elevating qi. During treatment, spicy and stimulating foods should be avoided, and more coarse grains, fruits, and vegetables should be consumed to maintain smooth bowel movements. Avoid prolonged sitting and standing, and perform daily anal sphincter exercises to enhance anal sphincter function. If the prolapsed hemorrhoids cannot be retrieved or the bleeding volume is large, timely medical treatment should be sought in combination with Western medicine treatment methods. Pay attention to anal hygiene regularly, wash with warm water after use, and wear loose cotton underwear to reduce friction.