Rectal Problems: Prevention

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Prevention

To prevent rectal problems:

• Use white, unscented toilet paper.
• Do not use scented soaps, such as Irish Spring and Coast, which can irritate skin.
• Practice good hygiene. Gently wipe the area with toilet paper after each bowel movement. If irritation starts, use water-soaked cotton balls to clean the area and then pat the area dry with dry cotton balls. Premoistened pads, such as Tucks or "baby wipes," may be less irritating.
• Do not sit on the toilet for long periods of time.
• Eat a high-fiber diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, and bran cereal every day.
• Avoid foods that can cause rectal problems. Examples of such foods include:
  • Regular or diet cola.
  • Coffee.
  • Beer and other alcoholic beverages.
  • Dairy products.
  • Any other items that you know cause you to have gas or indigestion.
• Avoid constipation. For more information, see the topic Constipation, Age 11 and Younger or Constipation, Age 12 and Older.
• Avoid diarrhea. For more information, see the topic Diarrhea, Age 11 and Younger or Diarrhea, Age 12 and Older.

Last updated:	May 22, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer