Are there Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are caused when the veins in the rectum just above the anus get blocked due to external pressure. This causes obstructions in the blood flow and also leads to swelling of the veins. Hemorrhoids are classified as internal hemorrhoids which are within the anal canal and external hemorrhoids which are under the skin just outside the anus. Hemorrhoids can affect both men and women. Though it is not a life threatening condition, hemorrhoids can be quite uncomfortable and even painful. Further complications like thrombosis and infections can occur if left untreated.

Some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids

1. Blood in the stools
2. Bleeding from the anal canal
3. Mucus in the stools
4. Itching
5. Burning sensation
6. Pain in the anal area
7. Painful swelling around the anus
8. A hard lump around the anus
9. Anal abscesses
10. Feeling full

Hemorrhoids can be very painful and irritating, even to the extent of disabling you from performing your day to day tasks. Since hemorrhoids develop in stages, it is important to see your doctor once you notice any symptoms of the condition. Although you may be tempted to self medicate because of the cheaper cost, you will end up spending much more money and suffer from great pain. If you notice any of the symptoms of hemorrhoids, then you need to consult a doctor immediately for diagnosis.

With that said, there are a number of home remedies for hemorrhoids. Here are some of the most popular measures.

• Sitting in warm water

Sitting in warm water is a method that has been used in treating hemorrhoids for a very long time. Ideally, this should be done in a bathtub. This works by adjusting the flow of blood in the anal region thus releasing the blood that is clogged in the hemorrhoids.

• Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural treatment for hemorrhoids. So how exactly do you use apple cider vinegar to treat hemorrhoids? Just use a piece of cloth, cotton or tissue paper and soak it in a solution of apple cider vinegar. Then apply it in the anal region. This treatment option provides immediate results. If not, repeat the procedure until you experience an improvement in your condition. Alternatively, you can use apple cider vinegar by creating a solution of the compound and warm water. Then you may sit on the solution.

• Eating fiber rich foods

Fiber rich foods are a necessity for anyone with hemorrhoids. Fiber will ease the passing of stool since it helps to improve digestion and soften stool. If you develop hemorrhoids as a result of constipation, then you have to increase your intake of fiber. Constipation causes stress on the anal veins and this affects the flow of blood in this area. Adding psyllium husks to your daily diet is a great way to increase your fiber intake naturally. However do not over do it on the fiber intake as this will only serve to bulk up the stool making it even harder and maybe even painful to pass. Moderation is the key.

• Drinking sufficient amount of water

Just like fiber, water can help ease the passing of stool. Specifically, water can help soften stool especially if you are constipated. Also, you should remember to go easy if you are having hard stool. Pushing too hard puts more strain on the blood vessels in the anus and rectum. This causes the development of hemorrhoids.

• Applying ice to the affected area

This home treatment also helps to ease the pain and discomfort caused by the hemorrhoids. This is simply done by wrapping some ice cubes in a towel and rubbing gently on the anal area.

• Butcher’s broom

The use of butcher’s broom is another method that has been used to treat hemorrhoids for a very long time. The scientific name of this herb is Ruscusaculeatus. It is also known as knee holly or box holly. The plant is taken as a capsule or boiled in water to make a drink. To make the butcher’s broom drink, you simply need to combine a cup of hot water with a teaspoon of the herb. Research on how effective the butcher’s broom is in treating hemorrhoids is not conclusive. However, many people have gotten well after using this treatment and it is definitely worth trying.

• Coconut oil

Coconut oil is also used to treat hemorrhoids. The coconut oil is simply rubbed onto the affected area. The hemorrhoids should disappear completely within a few days.

• Aloe vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties. Using the natural gel extracted from Aloe vera can be very effective in soothing the affected area and reducing the inflammation.

• Olive oil

Adding olive oil to one’s diet could go a long way in relieving the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to make the blood vessels more elastic thus making the passing of stools easier and less painful.

• Lemon juice

Drink lemon juice with honey or apply some directly to the affected area. Lemon juice contains antioxidants which speed up the recovery from hemorrhoids.

• Lifestyle modifications and personal hygiene

When dealing with hemorrhoids, a few simple changes to one’s lifestyle could not only serve to cure the disorder but will also prevent it from recurring in the future. Some of these changes include:

1. Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time.
2. Do not spend a long time sitting on the toilet.
3. Visit the toilet as and when you feel the urge, do not delay.
4. Get sufficient exercise.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids can be very uncomfortable and even painful but medical intervention and a whole lot of synthetic drugs are not always necessary to treat the condition. A few simple home remedies and lifestyle modifications could be all what you need to cure hemorrhoids.

Eat healthy and get enough fiber in your diet, drink sufficient water and get adequate exercise. If you follow these, you might not even fall victim to hemorrhoids. If you already have the condition then soaking in a warm tub or using an ice pack can help to relieve the pain and discomfort. Improve on your toilet habits and maintain good personal hygiene to help yourself recover from hemorrhoids quickly.

Seek medical help at the earliest if you still experience the symptoms even after following the above mentioned precautions.