Treatments for Tenesmus Sufferers Who Have Ulcerative Colitis

Tenesmus is a condition that makes you feel like you have not completely emptied your bowels even after you are done using the bathroom. Overcoming tenesmus when you have ulcerative colitis is possible.

May be Caused by Hemorrhoids
Tenesmus is sometimes caused by hemorrhoids. To alleviate tenesmus that is caused by hemorrhoids, the best thing to do is to take a sitz bath when you are done using the bathroom. Use warm water for the sitz bath. You can make it as hot as you can stand it if you want.

Another way to alleviate tenesmus caused by hemorrhoids is to apply a hot or cool compress to the area when you are done. You should figure out which one works best for you.

You can talk to your health care provider about applying a hemorrhoid crème. Some health care providers will advise against this in certain cases. If you can't use a crème, consider using hemorrhoid cleansing cloths or witch hazel pads.

Sometimes, the cause of tenesmus is not known. If the above suggestions do not work for you, consider sitting on the toilet for a few minutes after you think you are done. This is not a good idea if you have hemorrhoids, because it will usually make them worse.

Sometimes, irritation of the lining of the anus or bowels is what causes tenesmus. In this case, you may be able to use suppositories to lessen the sensations. Ask your pharmacist or health care professional for product suggestions. Some products are not meant for use by people with ulcerative colitis.

Increase Moisture
Petroleum jelly applied every time you go to the bathroom can decrease the sensation of having to go by increasing moisture in the rectal area. The frequent diarrhea that is caused by ulcerative colitis can cause irritation and dryness of the rectal area.

If none of these suggestions works, the next step is to talk to your health care professional about the problem. Your health care provider may be able to offer you natural solutions. It is sometimes necessary to take steroids or other prescriptions to rectify the problem.

It is important to remember that if you are using the bathroom frequently, you may feel like you are not done emptying your bowels because you have completely emptied them already.