Hemorrhoids Uncovered - Part III

Hemorrhoids Home-Based Remedies

Home treatment is the first step in treating hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can often be effectively dealt with by dietary and lifestyle changes. Home treatment includes adjusting your diet to avoid constipation, using a stool softener, or using ointments to relieve symptoms.

• Sitz baths. A sitz bath is a warm water bath for the buttocks and hips (the name comes from the German “sitzen,” meaning “to sit”). It can relieve itching, irritation, and spasms of the sphincter muscle. Most experts recommend a 20-minute sitz bath after each bowel movement and two or three times a day in addition. Take care to gently pat the anal area dry afterward; do not rub or wipe hard.
• Ice packs. Putting cold packs on the anus for short durations help reduce swelling and pain. It can also provide relief from the itching and burning experienced even if it is only temporary.
• Medications. Hemorrhoidal creams or suppositories can relieve pain, reduce swelling, protect skin and/or reduce bleeding. Creams that contain hydrocortisone can be used for itching or pain.
• High-fiber diet. Fiber shows a consistent beneficial effect for relieving hemorrhoid symptoms and bleeding. Fruit, leafy vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals are good sources of fiber. Another fiber source is Metamucil, which can take up to a week to work. Fiber and bran retain water in the stool, producing soft, bulky stools which are easier to pass and reduce the tendency to develop hemorrhoids.
• Fluids. Drink 6 to 8 eight ounce glasses of water each day to help keep stools soft.
• Bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids are a type of plant compound that stabilizes and strengthens blood vessel walls and decreases inflammation. They have been found to reduce anal discomfort, pain, and anal discharge during an acute hemorrhoid attack.
• Keep the anus and hemorrhoids as dry as possible, using talcum powder and a pad of soft tissue to absorb moisture.
• Do not strain during bowel movements. Trying to force a bowel movement can make hemorrhoids worse and straining for more than 5 minutes can be harmful. Try not to stay on the toilet any longer than necessary.
• Don’t scratch. While scratching can make a hemorrhoid feel temporarily better, scratching can damage the walls of the veins and create more problems.

Researched by Hafidzah@1AlternativeMedicineS.com