Hemorrhoid Remedies – A Real Pain in the Bum!
Do you have a “pain in your bum”? No, I’m not talking about someone who makes things difficult for you. I’m talking about hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be very difficult if you do not know how to handle them. Let’s learn more about hemorrhoid remedies.
What are hemorrhoids besides itchy and painful?
Hemorrhoids occur when the veins or other vascular structures in or around the anus become inflamed or swollen. There are generally two types of hemorrhoids: internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are the swollen veins found in the anal canal or at the beginning of the rectum, while external hemorrhoids occur near the anus’ opening or outside the anus. Hemorrhoids can be found internally, externally, or both.
Also, anybody can have hemorrhoids, young or old, and the majority of us will suffer from them at some point during our lifetime. In fact, it is pretty common during pregnancy. People who are inactive, or strain when having a bowel movement, or who suffer from dehydration are more susceptible to getting them.
So what causes hemorrhoids?
Well, its primary cause is excessive pressure on the veins in the rectal and pelvic area. The tissues inside the anus help in controlling bowel movements. So, if you’re exerting more effort to move stool, the added pressure will cause the veins in the tissues to swell and to stretch.
Other conditions that can add pressure on the veins in the anal canal are diarrhea and constipation.
Pregnant women can also get hemorrhoids due to the added pressure on the blood vessels in their pelvic area during the last six months of their pregnancy. Many times during giving birth, the pressure exerted worsens the hemorrhoids.
Other causes of hemorrhoids are sitting for long periods of time (sound familiar), being overweight, anal infections, and certain other diseases.
The top symptoms of Hemorrhoids are as follows:
- anal ache or pain, especially when seated
- anal itching
- bleeding during bowel movements
- hard tender lump(s) near the anus
- pain during bowel movements
Rectal bleeding should always be discussed with your healthcare provider. Although hemorrhoids are a common cause, other digestive conditions can produce similar symptoms.
Hemorrhoid Remedies
Diet
Like a ‘pain in the bum’ which you can get rid of, hemorrhoids can be treated. A high-fiber, gut-healthy diet is an important step in preventing hemorrhoids. For those who already have hemorrhoids, diet becomes significant in reducing flare-ups. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help soften stool and ease its passage through the rectum. A diet of at least 25 to 35 g of fiber daily is ideal. Those who have difficulty consuming enough fiber should consider using flaxseed as a fiber supplement. Fluid intake is also important. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily to encourage good digestion and keep stools soft. Avoid high-fat foods and spicy foods, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids in some people. Diet works great as one of the natural hemorrhoid remedies.
Herbs
Herbs are widely used hemorrhoid remedies and are natural, offering some symptom relief. Some herbs that decrease constipation and inflammation associated with hemorrhoids include slippery elm, ginger, and marshmallow.
- Slippery elm contains mucilage that acts as a soluble dietary fiber. By promoting stool softness and coating inflamed tissues, the herb allows existing hemorrhoids to heal.
- Ginger is a great support as one of the natural hemorrhoid remedies, providing relief by stimulating digestion, reducing constipation, and relaxing the muscles. It is a common remedy for gas and intestinal discomfort, often sipped in tea form.
- Marshmallow, similarly to slippery elm, contains a mucilage that acts as a soluble dietary fiber, thereby functioning as a bulk laxative and guarding against constipation. The herb is often used to treat irritable bowel syndrome and a host of gastrointestinal conditions.
- Gentle Move by Nature’s Sunshine is a herbal combination that provides mucilage and helps with softening and promoting regularity. Very mild.
- Many individuals also focus on vascular health, using supplements such as ginkgo biloba, bilberry, gotu kola, and vitamin C with bioflavonoids for traditional circulatory support.
There are also several over-the-counter creams available to help reduce the itching, swelling, and pain. Witch hazel is the most common and can be applied with a cotton ball or square. You can also make sure you wear cotton undergarments, avoid heavily scented toilet tissues, and do not scratch! These are all great natural hemorrhoid remedies.
Sitz Bath Treatments
Many people find relief by taking a Sitz Bath. A Sitz Bath is a warm, shallow bath that cleanses the area from the rectum to your vulva or scrotum. Just fill the tub with 3-4 inches of warm water and soak for 15-20 minutes. Immersing your tender bottom in a shallow pool of warm water helps relax the sphincter muscles and soothe pain associated with external hemorrhoid protrusions. Many people say it is best to bend your knees or have your legs dangle over the side so you target the area where you want relief. Don’t forget to make sure your tub is super clean and pat yourself dry!
Warm sitz baths can be repeated several times daily to help relieve discomfort. If your symptoms haven’t improved after a week of home care, contact your healthcare provider.
When Hemorrhoid Remedies Aren’t Enough
Most hemorrhoids improve with home care, but persistent symptoms may require additional treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend an office-based procedure, such as rubber band ligation or infrared coagulation. More severe cases may require surgery, such as a hemorrhoidectomy.
The appropriate treatment depends on the type and severity of your hemorrhoids. Seeking help early can prevent unnecessary discomfort.
So make sure to keep your bum happy!