Question

a patient reports anal pruritis and occasional bleeding with defecation. an examination of the perianal area reveals external hemorrhoids around the anal orifice as the patient is bearing down. the provider orders a colonoscopy to further evaluate this patient. what is the treatment for this patients symptoms?
a high - fiber diet and increased fluid intake
daily laxatives to prevent straining with stools
infiltration of a local anesthetic into the hemorrhoid
referral for possible surgical intervention

Explanation:

For mild external hemorrhoids, conservative measures like a high - fiber diet and increased fluid intake can help soften stools and reduce straining during defecation, which is beneficial for relieving symptoms. Daily laxatives are not the first - line treatment as they can cause dependency. Infiltration of local anesthetic only relieves pain temporarily and referral for surgery is usually for more severe cases.

Answer:

A. A high - fiber diet and increased fluid intake