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Effective Ways to Treat Hemorrhoids at Home

Hemorrhoid.com By Hemorrhoid.com | July 13, 2024

Did you know that one in 20 Americans gets hemorrhoids at some point? This is according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)1. Luckily, there are natural remedies you can try at home for relief.

Lots of home remedies exist for reducing hemorrhoid symptoms, focusing on itching and pain. Warm or sitz baths can really help ease the discomfort. Using over-the-counter wipes or creams with lidocaine or witch hazel works too. They can be used up to four times a day to soothe pain and itching2. Cold compresses are another effective method to lessen swelling and pain.

Pain relief can also come from over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen. Another key step is to eat more fiber. You should aim for 20-35 grams of fiber each day to help make stools softer and prevent new hemorrhoids2. Drinking plenty of water is important too, to stop dehydration and keep stools soft2.

It helps to wipe gently to avoid more irritation. Use damp toilet paper or pre-moistened wipes for this2. Regular exercise, such as brisk walking for 20-30 minutes a day, can help avoid constipation and encourage smooth bowel movements2. If your symptoms don’t improve after a week, see a doctor for more advice and treatment options2.

Key Takeaways

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Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in your anus and rectum. They cause discomfort and pain when you go to the bathroom. Knowing what they are and their symptoms helps in dealing with them.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

About 1 in 20 Americans get hemorrhoids. Over half of people over 50 experience them. This happens due to weaker anal tissues as you age, pressure from pregnancy, or genetics3.

Common Symptoms

Hemorrhoids lead to pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. In bad cases, the pain can be so severe it needs a doctor’s help. A doctor can confirm this condition with a simple exam.

Types of Hemorrhoids: Internal and External

There are two kinds of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal ones are inside the rectum and might bleed or fall out. They usually get better on their own4. External ones are more painful and are under the skin around your anus. They sometimes cause more problems like skin tags or infections3.

To avoid hemorrhoids, eat lots of fiber, stay active, and keep good bathroom habits. This lifestyle can lower the chances of getting hemorrhoids and ease their symptoms35.

In summary, knowing about internal and external hemorrhoids helps in recognizing their symptoms and getting the right treatment. Exercises and eating right can prevent them and make life better for those dealing with hemorrhoids.

Dietary Changes to Prevent and Treat Hemorrhoids

Changing what you eat can really help stop and treat hemorrhoids. It’s important to eat lots of fiber, drink plenty of water, and know which foods to stay away from.

Importance of a High-Fiber Diet

Eating a lot of fiber is key for keeping hemorrhoids at bay. Fiber makes your poop soft, so it’s easier to go without straining. This reduces the risk of both hemorrhoids and constipation. Adults should aim for 21–38 grams of fiber every day6. Yet, most folks only get about half of that7.

To up your fiber intake, try beans (they have 7 to 10 grams per half a cup), whole grains, fruits, and veggies7. A medium apple or a sweet potato with its skin are great choices8.

Here’s what a high-fiber day might look like:

Hydration and Its Benefits

Drinking enough water is also crucial. It makes stools soft and easy to pass, which helps prevent constipation. Try to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day6. Eating fruits that contain a lot of water, like cucumbers and watermelons, also helps. They are made up of more than 90% water7.

Foods to Avoid

Stay away from low-fiber foods if you’re dealing with hemorrhoids. These include white bread, dairy, meat, and processed items7. They can make constipation worse and heighten hemorrhoid pain. Choose foods rich in fiber instead to help your digestion.

Slowly adding these changes to your diet can really help soothe and prevent the discomfort of hemorrhoids. This leads to better overall digestion and health.

OTC Treatments for Hemorrhoids Relief

OTC treatments provide quick relief for hemorrhoids, offering many options for different needs.

Hemorrhoid Creams

Hemorrhoid creams are commonly used OTC remedies. They have hydrocortisone and lidocaine to lessen pain and itching9. Creams like Revivol-XR should not be applied for more than seven days without a doctor’s okay, to avoid side effects9. Ingredients like zinc oxide and witch hazel in these creams prove their worth10.

Topical Treatments: Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera

Topical treatments are vital in managing hemorrhoids. Witch hazel reduces swelling, pain, and itching11. A 2020 study found that combining witch hazel with other herbal extracts in an ointment can greatly ease symptoms11. Aloe vera gel, with its anti-inflammatory effect, also helps soothe the skin around hemorrhoids10.

More on witch hazel for hemorrhoids

Stool Softeners and Fiber Supplements

Constipation and straining can worsen hemorrhoids. Stool softeners and fiber supplements make passing stools smoother10. Fiber supplements like psyllium husk (in Metamucil) and methylcellulose (in Citrucel) are doctor-advised for meeting fiber needs through diet9. Glycerin suppositories, such as Fleet, also help with constipation and speed up healing10.

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines suggest 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories daily to help prevent hemorrhoids9.

Learn more about dietary changes and fiber supplements for hemorrhoid

Treatment Active Ingredients Usage Benefits
Hemorrhoid Creams Hydrocortisone, Lidocaine Up to one week Reduces pain and itching
Witch Hazel Herbal extracts As needed Reduces swelling and pain
Aloe Vera Gel Aloe Vera As needed Soothes irritated skin
Fiber Supplements Psyllium, Methylcellulose Daily Softens stool, eases bowel movements
Glycerin Suppositories Glycerin As needed Relieves constipation

Home Remedies for Immediate Relief

Looking for quick relief from hemorrhoid discomfort? Home treatments can really help. They’re easy to do and often bring comfort. Sites like Hemorrhoid.com offer great advice for care. They show how little changes make a big impact.

Sitz Baths and Warm Baths

Taking warm sitz baths is a top tip for easing hemorrhoid pain. It’s best after going to the bathroom. Sitting in warm water for 15-20 minutes can cut down on swelling and soreness. For more relief, add Epsom salt to the water.

This method is extra helpful for pregnant women, who often face hemorrhoids. About 35% go through this due to changes in their bodies12.

Cold Compresses

Cold compresses are another way to ease hemorrhoid discomfort. Putting an ice pack on the sore spot for 10-15 minutes reduces swelling. It can also numb the pain for a while. This is particularly good for people who are overweight, as they’re more likely to get hemorrhoids12.

Using Soothing Wipes

Swap dry toilet paper for soothing wipes to avoid more irritation. Look for wipes with witch hazel or aloe vera. These ingredients calm the skin. Also, wearing loose clothes and keeping clean helps. For ongoing problems, consider trying products like Revivol-XR.

If things don’t get better in a week, talk to a doctor13.

Add these remedies to your daily life for quick hemorrhoid symptom relief. But, always double-check with health guides before trying something new. This ensures you don’t make things worse.

FAQ

What are effective home remedies for hemorrhoid relief?

For hemorrhoid relief, you can take warm baths a few times daily. Try creams or wipes with lidocaine or witch hazel. Also, cold compresses help with swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can ease discomfort.

What are the common symptoms of hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids cause pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. External ones can be very painful and are found around the anus. Internal ones are inside the rectum and less visible.

How can dietary changes help in preventing and treating hemorrhoids?

Eating more fiber is key to fighting hemorrhoids. Add foods like grains, fruits, and veggies to your diet. Don’t forget to drink lots of water for soft stools.

What are the benefits of using hemorrhoid creams?

Hemorrhoid creams with hydrocortisone or lidocaine can relieve pain and itching. However, use them wisely and only for a short time.

Can witch hazel and aloe vera help with hemorrhoid symptoms?

Yes, witch hazel reduces swelling and pain. Aloe vera gel can soothe irritated skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects.

What is the importance of hydration in managing hemorrhoids?

Staying hydrated makes stools soft, preventing hard pushing when you go. Drinking water and sometimes using natural laxatives like prune juice can help.

How do sitz baths provide relief from hemorrhoids?

Sitz baths mean soaking in warm water a few times a day, especially after using the bathroom. This reduces irritation and inflammation, making you feel better.

Why are cold compresses recommended for hemorrhoids?

Cold compresses lessen swelling and pain temporarily. They make blood vessels smaller and reduce inflammation around the anus.

Are there foods to avoid when managing hemorrhoids?

Stay away from foods that cause constipation, like too much dairy, refined grains, and low-fiber snacks. Changing what you eat gradually helps prevent hemorrhoid problems.

What role do stool softeners and fiber supplements play in hemorrhoid treatment?

Stool softeners and fiber supplements ease bowel movements. Using products like psyllium husk makes the process less painful and helps with hemorrhoid issues.

What precautions should be taken when using over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments?

When using over-the-counter treatments like creams, follow the instructions to avoid side effects. Always talk to a doctor if your symptoms don’t get better or get worse.

Source Links

  1. Hemmorhoids Treatment: Remedies, OTC, and More – https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids
  2. Home Treatment and Remedies for Hemorrhoid Relief – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/hemorrrhoid-home-care
  3. Hemorrhoids – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics
  4. Treatment of Hemorrhoids – NIDDK – https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/treatment
  5. Hemorrhoids – Symptoms and causes – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268
  6. Food for Piles: 15 Foods to Fight Hemorrhoids – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-for-piles
  7. Best and Worst Foods for Hemorrhoids – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/best-worst-foods-hemorrhoids
  8. The 17 best high fiber foods to help treat hemorrhoids – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hemorrhoids-high-fiber-diet
  9. How To Treat Hemorrhoids – https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-treatment-medref
  10. Through Research and Testing, We Found the Best, Expert-Approved OTC Hemorrhoid Treatments – https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-over-the-counter-hemorrhoid-treatments-4172472
  11. Home treatment and remedies for hemorrhoid relief – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317114
  12. What Kills Hemorrhoids Fast? Home Remedies & Medications – https://www.medicinenet.com/what_kills_hemorrhoids_fast/article.htm
  13. Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids – https://www.preparationh.com/learn-more/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids/