Evaluation of a bulk-forming evacuant in the management of haemorrhoids

Abstract

Constipation is considered to play a part in causing haemorrhoids and the regular use of a bulk-forming aperient has been advocated in their management. The incidence of constipation in 140 patients with haemorrhoids was only 10 per cent. A double blind trial on 40 patients designed to compare a bulk-forming aperient (sterculia) with a non-bulk-forming placebo (starch) showed a slight but insignificant advantage for sterculia.