Do you suffer from hemorrhoids and unpleasant pain? Check out the best ways to get rid of hemorrhoids naturally.
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, which are called internal and external hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are an extremely common problem. It is estimated that 75 percent of Europeans experience them at some point. Although they usually go away on their own within a few weeks, they can cause mild to severe discomfort.
However, folk home remedies can make them more tolerable.
Read below for some of the best ways to treat hemorrhoids naturally at home.
RELATED TOPICS:
The best home remedies for hemorrhoids
1. Witch hazel
Witch hazel can reduce both itching and pain, the two main symptoms of hemorrhoids.
It is a natural anti-inflammatory, so it may also reduce swelling. Witch hazel can be purchased in liquid form and applied directly to hemorrhoids.
It can also be found in products like wipes and anti-itch soaps.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel has historically been used to treat hemorrhoids and various skin conditions.
It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce irritation. Although there is not enough clinical evidence on the effectiveness of aloe vera gel for hemorrhoids, it is considered very safe for topical application.
The gel can be found as an ingredient in other products, but you should only use pure aloe vera gel for hemorrhoids.
Pure aloe vera gel can also be harvested directly from the leaves of the aloe plant. Some people are allergic to aloe vera, especially those who are allergic to garlic or onions. Check for an allergic reaction by rubbing a small amount on your forearm.
Wait 24 to 48 hours. If no reaction occurs, it should be safe to use.
3. Warm bath with bitter (Eps) salt
Warm baths can help relieve irritation from hemorrhoids. You can use a sitz bath, a small plastic tub that fits over the toilet bowl, or take a bath in the bathtub.
Bathing in a warm bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement will be most effective.
Adding Epsom salts to the bath can provide further relief by reducing pain.
4. Over-the-counter fats
Over-the-counter ointments and creams can be found at almost any drug store and can provide immediate relief. Some may even reduce swelling and help your hemorrhoid heal faster.
If you use hydrocortisone cream, do not use it for more than a week.
5. Soothing wipes
Using toilet paper after having a bowel movement can make existing hemorrhoids worse.
Wipes help you maintain cleanliness without further irritation. For an extra boost, you can find wipes with soothing anti-hemorrhoid ingredients, like witch hazel or aloe vera.
Make sure that the wipes you choose do not contain alcohol, perfume or other irritating elements. These substances could worsen the symptoms, instead of relieving them.
6. Cold compresses
Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the anus to reduce 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.
7. Stool softeners
According to research for diabetes, and digestive and kidney diseases, stool softeners or fiber supplements, such as plantain plant (lat. psyllium), can help reduce constipation, make the stool softer and facilitate quick, painless bowel movements.
Many of these stool softeners come in powder, capsule, and liquid forms that you take by mouth between one and three times a day.
8. Loose, cotton clothes
Replacing tight clothing made of polyester with ultra-breathable cotton (especially cotton underwear) can help keep the anal area clean and dry. This can potentially reduce symptoms.
Avoid using perfumed detergents or fabric softeners to reduce irritation.
How to prevent hemorrhoids?
Changes in lifestyle and diet are the best way to prevent hemorrhoids.
Staying physically active and eating healthy helps you to have regular bowel movements. Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods (especially plants) and drink plenty of water to ensure proper bowel function and prevent constipation.
Regular exercise and avoiding prolonged sitting can also help prevent hemorrhoids. The most effective way to avoid constipation is to go to the bathroom when you first feel the urge.
Delaying stool allows the bowel to reabsorb water from the stool. It makes the chair harder when you finally leave.
When to see a doctor
Hemorrhoids are usually easy to treat and clear up on your own.
In very rare cases, hemorrhoids can cause complications. Chronic blood loss from hemorrhoids could cause anemia, which is a lack of red blood cells.
Internal hemorrhoids can also cut off blood flow, resulting in strangulation of the hemorrhoids, which can cause extreme pain.
If home treatments have not been effective after more than two weeks, make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can diagnose and treat hemorrhoids, and can write prescriptions for medicated creams, ointments, and suppositories.
If these treatments fail, treatments such as surgical removal of the hemorrhoids are recommended.
You should also make an appointment with your doctor if you notice rectal bleeding for the first time or if your rectal bleeding increases.