Hemorrhoids is a painful condition caused by inflammation of veins in the anus. They can cause mild to severe discomfort, pain and in some cases infection. The subject of the causes, treatments and even general condition of hemorrhoids may be uncomfortable. Lack of understanding and proper treatment options leave the afflicted open to possibly worse conditions. Therefore, this information is important for you to consider and be informed of your conditions and how to go about treating it.
You can reduce the amount of swelling and sharp, stinging pain by making and applying a sterilized ice pack or compress to the rectal and perineal areas. Wrap the compress in a thin, lint-free cloth to avoid additional irritation and apply it to the affected area for up to fifteen minutes at a time, as many times during the day as possible.
Regular daily exercise may help in the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids. In our fast-paced world it can be hard to find time to fit exercise into our day but even a little can help. Try using the stairs instead of the elevator at work. Don't do any exercise that would cause straining, like lifting weights.
The first line of defense against this uncomfortable problem is actually a very simple over the counter cream which can be purchased at all drug stores and most super markets. This will help with the inflammation and pain and the actual hemorrhoid will take care of itself in up to two weeks.
If you find that you are suffering from regular occurrences of hemorrhoids you may want to rethink your daily routines. You may be spending too much consecutive time on your feet or in a seat. If you spend long periods of time sitting or standing you are putting increased pressure on your anus and that can lead to hemorrhoids.
If alternative treatments aren't working, try relieving the discomfort of hemorrhoids with herbs. There are two types of herbs that have proven successful in providing relief from hemorrhoids. The first is butcher's broom, which contains ruscogenin, a plant compound known as a steroidal saponin. Ruscogenin helps to reduce hemorrhoidal bleeding by constricting blood vessels. The other herb is horse chestnut, which contains aescin, a combination of saponins. Aescin is effective in strengthening the walls of veins, which helps to prevent the development of hemorrhoids.
Exercise caution when using medicines that relieve constipation. While these laxative products can help you in the short term, you can quite easily experience constipation after the effects have worn off. Many times the constipation is worse than you started with. Look for natural ways to soften your stool or seek a physician's advice.
Don't depend solely on some over the counter drugs such as laxatives. These are not a cure for constipation, and are meant to just be taken every once in awhile. Many times these types of drugs will help for one bowel movement, and then will end up leaving you more constipated after that.
Always clean your anal area carefully and meticulously. With hemorrhoids present, the likelihood of infection can increase. Bacteria can cause abscesses through infected tissue. Wash after bowel movements and always in the shower. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and make sure to rinse any soap residue away to avoid discomfort.
Have an aloe vera plant on hand. If you want immediate relief without resorting to chemical creams, you can break off a leaf of the plant, and swipe it lightly across the rectum, or insert it into the anus. Aloe has been shown to calm inflammation while simultaneously having an immediate soothing relief.
If you suffer from the painful, itchy symptoms of hemorrhoids, you can try one or several over-the-counter products that offer relief. Among them are creams, wipes, suppositories and foams that can help shrink, temporarily numb and soothe inflammation. Also try ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain relief.
To reduce the swelling of a hemorrhoid, you may want to put an ice pack on the affected area. Not only will this reduce the swelling, it will also help to numb the area and reduce the amount of pain you are in. Leave the ice pack on the area for about 10 minutes.
To relieve some of the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids, try applying witch hazel to the region. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help ease the pain caused by hemorrhoids as well as lower the swelling. Just apply some to the inflamed area and you will quickly feel great relief.
While hemorrhoids may be a common condition it is important that they be taken seriously. The very positioning of the swollen veins lends to issues with both treatment options and possible complications. Still, hemorrhoids can be addressed if you take the time to educate yourself fully on the condition.
