subject: Finding Relief for Hemorrhoids [print this page] Finding Relief for Hemorrhoids Finding Relief for Hemorrhoids
Believe it not, people are normally born with hemorrhoids, which refer to vascular structures in the anal canal which facilitate the passage of stools. However, they become pathologic or cause people problems when they become swollen or inflamed. Among the top causes of pathologic hemorrhoids are chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting, and/or standing for long periods of time. Genetic predisposition also plays a role in increasing the predisposition of people to hemorrhoids. The two types of hemorrhoids are internal and external, which are classified depending on their location. The former is located just above the anorectal junction while the latter is just below.
Pathologic hemorrhoids are not fatal in nature; nevertheless, they cause affected people considerable discomfort and, in some cases, embarrassment. Another good news is that people can get relief by modifying their lifestyle together with simple to apply home remedies, as follows:
Lifestyle change. For hemorrhoids that are just beginning to become pathologic as evidenced by minor pain as well as itching, modifying the lifestyle can readily provide affected people with the much needed relief. A change of diet would especially benefit hemorrhoids caused by chronic constipation, which is the most common of all causes. Consume a lot of fiber such whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. It is also important to drink lots of fluid especially water and juices. Staying away from processed foods, which are devoid of fiber, as well as nuts, spicy foods, and caffeine, which can cause irritation, would help in alleviating the associated signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids. Integrating a regular exercise regimen at least three times a week for thirty minutes to your habits can increase the peristaltic movement of the digestive tract and assist in bowel movement. However, make sure to avoid heavy lifting which can worsen the disease rather than provide relief. Practicing good hygiene will prevent further irritation of your already inflamed hemorrhoid. In cleaning your anal area, be sure not to wipe it but to apply a blotting motion instead. Avoid standing and sitting for long periods that can increase the pressure in the anal vasculature through the pull of gravity.
Home remedies. Because hemorrhoids are quite common, a lot of home remedies have been provided for afflicted people. However, a lot of home remedies are geared in providing relief to external rather than internal hemorrhoids. One of the most effective methods is applying heat to the swollen or inflamed region of the anal canal to facilitate and speed up the flow of blood back to the heart. You can purchase a Sitz bath, which is small basin placed in between the lids of the toilet and works by spraying and soaking the hemorrhoids. Another option is to take regular hot baths. You can also apply witch hazel pads to the inflamed anal region. You can do this by taking a clean gauze and soaking it in witch hazel. The pad with witch hazel is then applied to the hemorrhoid and left there for some time. This helps in remedying many of the signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids such as swelling and itching.
