Hemorrhoids are painful masses that are usually internal or external. About half of the population will suffer from them by the time they reach the age of 50, and many women develop them during pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are caused by straining during bowel movements and chronic, long-term constipation. They are often treated with fiber and fluids and can sometimes be surgically removed. Read on to learn how you can get relief from this painful condition.
External hemorrhoids
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to external hemorrhoids. Benjamin Franklin once said, “prevention is better than cure.” It’s true for hemorrhoids as well. Lifestyle changes can prevent or treat hemorrhoids. The most important lifestyle change is a high-fiber diet, which promotes regular bowel movements. Drink plenty of water, which helps keep you regular, and exercise regularly.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include persistent pain, itching, and persistent discomfort. Despite the fact that home remedies are highly effective, they are merely masking the problem rather than treating the source of the pain. If you want a permanent relief from hemorrhoids, see a professional. Your doctor can prescribe conservative treatments or more invasive procedures, depending on the severity and the cause of the condition.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids may include pain, anal lump, and increased clean-up after a bowel movement. External hemorrhoids may also leave a perianal skin tag. They may be difficult to clean, making them an unsightly health problem. As you can see, external hemorrhoids are common and can be caused by various factors. However, there are some preventative measures you can take to minimize the symptoms.
Over-the-counter remedies for hemorrhoids
Although over-the-counter remedies for hemorroids can alleviate some of the symptoms, they do not cure the condition. If you experience rectal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. However, if your symptoms are mild and go away in two or three weeks without treatment, you may want to try natural remedies. However, it is important to note that the treatment you choose will depend on your individual circumstances.
Aloe vera gel is commonly used for hemorrhoids. The soothing effect of aloe may reduce inflammation and provide relief. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health lists aloe vera gel as a safe topical agent. Besides being available as a liquid, aloe vera gel is available in other products and should be applied directly to the hemorrhoid itself. However, you must make sure that the gel is 100% pure, as its effects may take up to 48 hours.
The best over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams include Preparation-H and Tucks. While these products do not shrink hemorrhoids, they provide relief from some of the discomfort associated with them. Some people have reported relief from Tucks, previously known as Anusol. Other treatments include hydrocortisone, witch hazel, and phenylephrine. Other remedies include special bath salts and pillows.
Prevention of hemorrhoids
Treatment for hemorrhoids often consists of over-the-counter creams and a sitz bath. In severe cases, doctors may recommend steroid suppositories. Small rubber bands may also help. If the bleeding is too much, surgeons may perform a more invasive operation. Regardless of the treatment, prevention is always better than cure. Prevention means eating more fiber and drinking more water and avoiding the things that trigger hemorrhoids.
Getting enough physical activity is an important component of hemorrhoids prevention. Exercise increases your body’s ability to eliminate waste and minimizes pressure on the veins that cause hemorrhoids. Additionally, a healthy diet that contains lots of fiber helps to prevent hemorrhoids by making stools softer and easier to pass.
Constipation is a common risk factor for developing hemorrhoids.
High-fiber foods help prevent hemorrhoids by softening stool and increasing bulk. High-fiber foods also contain more water than low-fiber ones, so they can reduce the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. It’s also important to stay away from processed foods to reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids. For the prevention of hemorrhoids, avoid processed foods and eat plenty of whole grains.