Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. Common symptoms may include pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. They can develop inside or outside the anus and rectum, called internal and external hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are a widespread problem. Reliable sources estimate that 75% of Americans will experience them at some age. Although they usually go away on their own in a few weeks, they can cause mild and severe discomfort. Home remedies can make them more bearable.
Witch hazel
Hazelnut can reduce itching and pain, the two main symptoms of hemorrhoids. It is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, so it can also reduce swelling. Witch hazel can be bought in liquid form and applied directly to hemorrhoids. You can also find it in products such as wipes and soaps against itching.
Aloe vera for hemorrhoids
Aloe vera gel has historically been used to treat hemorrhoids and various skin conditions. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce irritation.
Although there is insufficient clinical evidence on the effectiveness of aloe vera gel on hemorrhoids, the National Center for Free and Integrated Health Sources believes it is probably very safe for topical use. The gel can be found as an ingredient in other products, but you should use only pure aloe vera gel for hemorrhoids. You can use pure aloe vera gel directly from the aloe plant’s leaves.
Some people are allergic to aloe vera, especially those who are allergic to garlic or garlic. Check for an allergic reaction by putting a small amount of aloe vera gel on your forearm. If no reaction occurs after 24 to 48 hours, use should be safe.
Warm bath with bitter salt
Warm baths can help alleviate the irritation of hemorrhoids. You can use a sitting bath, a small plastic bathtub placed over the toilet seat, or immerse the whole body in a large bathtub.
According to Harvard Health, a 20-minute warm bath is most effective. Pass bitter salts the bath provides additional relief by reducing pain.
Ointments without a prescription
Over-the-counter ointments and creams can be found in almost all pharmacies and can give you instant relief. Some even reduce swelling and can help hemorrhoids heal faster. If you use a cream with hydrocortisone, do not use it for more than one week.
Soothing wipes
Using toilet paper after urination can make existing hemorrhoids worse. Wipes can help keep you clean without further irritation. You can find wipes with irritating anti hemorrhoidal ingredients such as witch hazel or aloe vera for additional reinforcement. Ensure the wipes you choose do not contain alcohol, perfume, or other irritants. These substances can worsen symptoms instead of alleviating them.
Cold compresses
Apply a pack of ice or cold compresses to the anus to relieve swelling for 15 minutes. For large painful hemorrhoids, this can be an extremely effective treatment. Always wrap ice in a cloth or paper towel and never apply anything frozen directly to the skin.
Stool softeners
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and digestive and kidney diseases, stool softeners, or fiber supplements, such as psyllium, can reduce constipation, make the stool softer, and facilitate quick, painless bowel movements. Many of these stool softeners come in forms such as powders, capsules, and liquids that you take orally once to three times a day.
Loose, cotton clothes
Replacing tight clothing made of polyester with ultra cotton underwear (especially cotton underwear) can help keep the anal area clean and dry. This can potentially reduce symptoms. Avoid using scented detergents or fabric softeners, as they can irritate.
Hemorrhoid prevention
Lifestyle and diet changes are the best ways to prevent hemorrhoids. Physical activity and a healthy diet help prevent hemorrhoids. Eat as much as you can foods containing fiber (especially from plants) And drink enough fluids to keep the digestive process moving properly and prevent constipation. Exercising regularly and avoiding sitting for long periods of time can also help prevent hemorrhoids.
The most effective way to avoid constipation is to go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the first urge. Delaying bowel movements allows the bowel to re-absorb water from the stool. It intensifies constipation.
When to visit your doctor?
Hemorrhoids are generally easy to treat and remove on their own. In sporadic cases, hemorrhoids can cause complications. Chronic blood loss from hemorrhoids can cause anemia, i.e., red blood cell deficiency. Internal hemorrhoids can also interrupt blood flow, which can cause extreme pain. If home treatments have not been effective after more than two weeks, see your doctor. Your primary care physician can diagnose and treat hemorrhoids. You can use medicinal creams, ointments, and suppositories.
If these treatments do not work, it is possible to remove the hemorrhoids with surgery. It is obligatory to go to the doctor if you notice rectal bleeding for the first time and if the bleeding increases.
