Hemorrhoids can be a real pain in the...well, you know. Experts estimate that roughly half of all adults will deal with hemorrhoids at some point in their life, and knowledge of what can cause or contribute to the development of this pesky ailment, as well as how to lessen its effects, is essential.
After having a bowel movement, it is important to not use dry tissue paper if you are struggling with hemorrhoids. The dry tissue paper is rough and can scratch the hemorrhoids when wiping. If you scratch the hemorrhoids, they may bleed. Instead of dry paper, try using wet tissue paper or running water.
While treating your hemorrhoids, it is best to keep the anal area as dry as possible throughout the day to reduce the risk of additional irritation or infection of the tissues. Absorb excess moisture by applying a small amount of cornstarch or fragrance-free baby powder to your anal area once or twice per day.
You may think that you are alone in this problem and that it is something to be embarrassed about, but it actually occurs in almost half of all adults by the time they reach middle age. Their are many products available which can help greatly with this issue available over the counter because it is so common.
Before you turn to a doctor for a prescription to treat hemorrhoids, try implementing home remedies. After you have a bowel movement, soak for about 15 minutes in a sitz bath. Hemorrhoids are often times very itchy, but it's important to avoid scratching. This will only worsen the problem. Instead, use witch hazel to moisten some cloths and apply these to the affected areas for short-term relief. You can also reduce irritation by eating plenty of fiber, and drinking plenty of water. The water and fiber ensure a soft, easy to pass bowel movement.
Cut back on your salt intake. Salt can make your body swell including your hemorrhoids. Reducing your salt intake may be difficult at first but will be well worth it in the end.
Apply petroleum jelly to help the passage of hard stools. Using petroleum jelly is a good way to prevent damage or irritation to hemorrhoids when faced with constipation or hard stools. Apply a small amount around the anus to facilitate the process. Walking before defecating will also help ease the process.
Lay on your side to alleviate pressure. Sitting upright or laying on your back may inadvertently cause more pressure to the rectal area, so relieve that pressure by laying and sleeping on your side. This is especially true for hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy, and the expanding uterus is pulled down toward the rectal area, causing more pressure.
Drinking Aloe Vera juice can help soften stools and make a bowel movement easier. To mask the unpleasant taste, you can dilute the Aloe Vera with a sugar-free apple juice. Always read the label carefully, and never drink more than what's recommended. Going overboard with the Aloe Vera juice will probably give you an upset stomach.
Overweight individuals are at a bigger risk for hemorrhoids, so you should lose weight if you want to reduce your risk or reduce the swelling of a pre-existing hemorrhoid. A larger waist and abdominal area means that you are putting g a lot more weight on the veins in your rectum.
Prevention is the best tool you can use to fight hemorrhoids, so make sure that you're always practicing healthy diet and exercise habits. A lot of fiber, a lot of water, and a lot of walking should be your three rules to live by to ensure you never get a hemorrhoid.
A great tip for your painful hemorrhoids is to stay away from alcohol. This is a smart idea because of the drying effect that alcohol will cause on your body. When your body is not properly hydrated, it will not perform to its peak abilities in all areas including the easy passing of stool.
Although hemorrhoids can often be a painful, uncomfortable ailment, the good news is that there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and get the relief that you crave. You now have a solid understanding of factors contributing to the development of hemorrhoids, and what you can do to manage your symptoms.
