subject: 5 Natural Treatments For Hemorrhoids [print this page] At some point in life upwards of 50% of the population is afflicted with hemorrhoids.
A hemorrhoid develops when the veins that are located in the lower area of the rectum become inflamed. Hemorrhoids can develop internally or externally and can occur in both places at the same time.
If you have internal hemorrhoids, you may not be aware of it until you notice blood in your stool or on a tissue after wiping. Internal hemorrhoids usually are not as painful as external hemorrhoids and may not require treatment unless they become prolapsed.
Many people who have internal hemorrhoids never realize they have them unless they notice blood in their stool or on the toilet tissue after using the bathroom.
The good news is treatment for hemorrhoids is readily available and most available treatments can be done in the comfort of your own home. To treat mild cases of hemorrhoids you can utilize the following:
Suppositories, Creams And Ointments - All of these can be purchased over the counter and all will provide relief from the irritation and pain you are experiencing. For best results look for a product that contains hydrocortisone.
Treating The Area With Witch Hazel - This product works well for reducing inflammation and alleviating some of the pain from the hemorrhoid.
Using Stool Softeners - These work to help keep your bowel movements soft which reduces the need for you to strain. Straining puts pressure on the area and causes hemorrhoids to flare up.
Sitz Baths - Warm baths have been proven to take down hemorrhoid swelling and also reduce the pain. For best results you should take 2-3 daily for 10 to 15 minutes each. If you like, you can add a little witch hazel to the water to help speed up the healing process.
Avoid Putting Pressure On The Area - If at all possible you should avoid putting excessive pressure on the area for long periods of time. If you work in a position that requires you to sit for hours on end, be sure to get up every hour or so for a few minutes. You can also utilize an inflatable pillow ring to take some of the pressure off the area while you are sitting.
These hemorrhoid treatments should bring you some relief and help get rid of your hemorrhoids within a couple of weeks.
After your hemorrhoids have cleared up, a good way to keep them gone for good is to add fiber rich foods and 8 or more glasses of water daily to your diet. These will help keep your system regular and things flowing naturally.
If after 2 weeks your hemorrhoid has not gone away and is not responding to the treatment for hemorrhoids listed, you should contact your physician for an alternative hemorrhoid cure, which could include surgical removal.
