What Everyone Should Know About Treating Hemorrhoids
How to Treat Hemorrhoids Naturally
Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and the constant itching and physical pain that often accompany them can take a toll. However, there are a few treatments that are effective enough to help you fend off a trip to your physician. It is, however, advisable that you try these within the comfort of your home. Some of these methods will even stimulate bowel movement, thereby reducing the likelihood of hemorrhoids.
Pain and Itch Relief
Partially fill a tub (a few inches worth) with warm water and then lower yourself into the water, ideally after every bowel movement. It is advisable that you sit in the warm water for approximately 15 minutes each time. Use mild and unscented soap to gently clean the area. Pat dry. You may find a “toilet bath“ (which is basically a small tub that fits over your toilet) more convenient for this purpose.
Relief Creams and Wipes
There are a number of creams and wipes that effectively treat hemorrhoids and many of these can be obtained without prescription. Look for products that contain witch hazel which provides fast acting pain and itch relief. Products containing hydrocortisone, which is also generally quite effective, should not be used for more than seven days unless advised by a doctor.
How to Treat Hemorrhoids
Keep it Iced: Ice is often overlooked but it has many uses and is a cheap and effective form of treatment. Gently apply an ice pack to your hemorrhoids to get relief from the symptoms and even reduce some of the swelling.
Use Pain Relievers: There are some pain relievers that can help you if you are suffering from painful hemorrhoids and many can can be purchased without using a prescription. Some of these include acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen.
Resist the Urge to Scratch: This is easier said than done, but if you want to get rid of your hemorrhoids then resist that urge to scratch them. If you give in and scratch it may irritate them further and slow down the healing process.
Keep it Cool: Avoid those silky and heavy undies and opt for light cotton underwear that will keep you cool and dry.
Some Useful Hemorrhoid Prevention Tips
- Don't Force it: Try to be as regular as possible. Maintain good dietary habits; eat sufficient servings of fiber and drink a lot of water. It is important that you have natural bowel movements and should you encounter problems do not physically force things. There are supplements available which gently cleanse your colon so that you do not have to force your body.
- Go for Soft: Use soft tissues or wipes instead of harder rolls that will serve to irritate your skin. Be sure to use products that are gentle and can be used on sensitive skin.
- Go with the Flow: As soon as you feel the need to use the bathroom be sure to use it since postponing it may result in constipation which can lead to hemorrhoids.
- Do the Squat: It is better to squat than to simply sit upright when you are using the bathroom but in the event that you do not have a toilet that allows you to do this, you may improvise by resting your feet on an elevated object (such as stacks of books, boxes, blocks, a low footstool, etc..) as this will encourage you to squat and encourage easier bowel movements.
